Vermouth, Non Vintage Sweet Wine
Amaro - Pistone (1970's Bottling)
Bottle size: 100cl
ABV: 17%
Price:
£129.00
Description
The Pistone Vermouth Amaro “Nastro Azzurro” is a fascinating relic of Italy’s post-war aperitivo culture, likely dating to the 1960s. Produced by Pistone Luigi & C., this Turin-style amaro-vermouth hybrid reflects the experimental creativity of Italian producers during a period when bitters, aperitivi, and vermouths were thriving in both domestic and export markets.
The striking turquoise-and-white label, with its ornate flourishes and bold “PISTONE” branding, is unmistakably mid-century in style. The proud designation “Nastro Azzurro” (Blue Ribbon) would have been a mark of quality, aligning this bottling with Italy’s reputation for excellence in vermouth-making.
As an Amaro Vermouth, this expression would have balanced the aromatic botanicals of classic vermouth — wormwood, citrus peel, sweet spice — with a distinctly bitter backbone of roots and herbs, creating a more robust and medicinal profile than standard Rosso or Bianco vermouths. Expect flavours of gentian, quinine, caramelised orange, clove, and dried herbs, leading to a complex, lingering finish that embodies Italy’s aperitivo ritual.
For collectors, this bottle is not only an authentic taste of 1960s Turin but also a rare example of a hybrid category that blurred the line between vermouth and amaro. A striking vintage piece, both visually and historically.
Condition
Good conditions