Vermouth, Non Vintage Sweet Wine
Antica Formula - G. B. Carpano
Bottle size: 100cl
ABV: 16%
Price:
£149.00
Description
The *Antica Formula* from G. B. Carpano is a legendary Italian *rosso* vermouth, celebrated as the very first of its kind. Created in 1786 by Antonio Benedetto Carpano in Turin, this artisanal aromatised wine is made to a centuries-old, closely guarded recipe. Crafted from a base of select Italian wines, it is infused with a rich and complex blend of botanicals including wormwood (*assenzio*), Madagascan vanilla, saffron, citrus peel, and aromatic herbs. The result is an opulent, bittersweet aperitif that has set the gold standard for sweet vermouth for over two hundred years.
In the glass, *Antica Formula* shows a deep amber hue with warm mahogany and ruby highlights. The bouquet is intense and layered, bursting with vanilla pod, candied orange peel, and warm spice, underpinned by notes of cocoa, dried fig, myrrh, and alpine herbs. The addition of saffron and other rare botanicals brings an exotic, luxurious dimension to its aromatic profile.
On the palate, it is velvety, full-bodied, and exquisitely balanced. The natural sweetness from the wine base harmonises beautifully with bitter herbal elements, while flavours of caramelised citrus, raisins, and dark chocolate evolve into a long, lingering finish with hints of spice and balsamic depth. Its mouth-coating texture and complexity make it equally rewarding as a sipping drink or a refined cocktail ingredient.
Perfect over ice with a twist of orange, *Antica Formula* also elevates cocktails such as the Negroni, Manhattan, and Americano to a new level of depth and elegance. It pairs beautifully with dark chocolate, nut-based desserts, or aged cheeses. More than just a vermouth, G. B. Carpano’s *Antica Formula* is a timeless icon of Italian aperitivo culture—an expression of craftsmanship, heritage, and indulgence in every glass.
Condition
Good conditions
