Vermouth, Non Vintage Sweet Wine
Pistone Vermouth Amaro Nastro Azzurro (c. 1970–1975)
Bottle size: 100cl
ABV: 17%
Price:
£99.00
Description
This striking Pistone Vermouth Amaro Nastro Azzurro hails from the early 1970s, a golden age for Italian aperitivi and digestivi. The bold turquoise-and-white label, combined with its ornate floral detailing, captures the confident design trends of mid-century Italy, when vermouth makers vied for international recognition with distinct branding and adventurous styles.
As an amaro-style vermouth, this bottling bridges the gap between classic sweet vermouth and the more herbal, bitter liqueurs for which Italy is famed. Expect a deep, mahogany colour in the glass, with aromas of wormwood, gentian root, citrus peel, and subtle spice. On the palate, the flavours balance sweetness with a complex herbal bitterness, finishing with lingering notes of licorice and alpine herbs.
The Nastro Azzurro label reflects a premium positioning—“Blue Ribbon” as a mark of quality—and it would have been marketed both for sipping over ice and as a sophisticated cocktail ingredient. In its time, it was likely poured in cafés and cocktail bars from Turin to Milan, accompanying Italy’s burgeoning aperitivo culture.
For collectors, this rare Pistone bottling is more than just a vermouth; it is a snapshot of 1970s Italian drinking culture. With its bold graphics and distinctive amaro character, it represents a fascinating chapter in the evolution of Vermouth di Torino.
Condition
Good conditions
