Distilleria Varnelli Amaro dell'Erborista, Marche, Italy

Few amari embrace the soul of herbal tradition like the Distilleria Varnelli Amaro dell’Erborista, Marche, Italy. Crafted with reverence for ancient apothecary techniques, this singular liqueur is made from a decoction of herbs, barks, and roots prepared over a wood fire, then sweetened solely with pure honey. The result is an uncompromisingly bold, rustic amaro that proudly honors the Varnelli family’s long herbal legacy, complex, tannic, and wildly expressive.

Product Details:

• Type: Herbal Amaro
• Region: Marche, Italy
• ABV: 21%
• Sweetener: 100% pure honey
• Production Method: Decoction of botanicals prepared over a wood fire

Sensory Description:

The tobacco-colored hue with brick-red undertones suggests its earthy intensity even before the first sip. On the nose, aromas of stewed fruits, gentian root, rhubarb, sandalwood, and dried sultanas merge with the softness of honey. The palate is immediately gripped by dry, warm bitterness, punctuated by dominant tannins and acidity, yet softened by a mouthwatering wave of salivation. It finishes long and layered with assertive spice and rooty persistence.

Awards & Accolades:

• Finalist – 2018 Ultimate Beverage Challenge
  “A stunning liqueur with enticing aromatics of wildflower honey, strawberry rhubarb pie, and kola nut. Smoky, pleasantly astringent, and beautifully balanced.”

Distiller's Background:

Founded in 1868 in the Sibillini Mountains of Italy’s Marche region, Distilleria Varnelli remains independently owned and led by the fourth generation of the Varnelli family. Their commitment to time-honored methods, such as wood-fired decoction and secret family recipes, has made them a benchmark for traditional Italian spirits. Run today by Elda, Gigliola Simonetta, Mari Donatella, and Orietta Maria Varnelli, the distillery remains deeply tied to its landscape, heritage, and artisanal values.

Serving Suggestions:

• Neat or On the Rocks: Best appreciated as a contemplative digestif.
• Cocktail Use: Try it in bold, bitter-forward recipes like La Contrada or It Ain’t Easy.
• Culinary Pairings: Exceptional with dark chocolate, roasted nuts, or aged cheeses.

Why Distilleria Varnelli Amaro dell’Erborista?

Because this is amaro in its rawest, most authentic form, untamed, earthy, and unapologetically bitter. Built from fire, root, and honey, Amaro dell’Erborista offers a deep sensory journey into the heritage of Italian herbalism. For those who appreciate complexity and character, it is a timeless ritual in a bottle.