Let us now embark on a sensory journey to the heart of the Dolomite Mountains, of the Northern Italian Alps with Pasubio, a unique expression of the Trentino region's rich heritage. Crafted on a foundation of meticulously aged wine, Pasubio unfolds in layers of wild blueberries, whispers of pine, and a subtle hint of smoke, all harmoniously entwined with the robust bitterness of alpine herbs. Its distinctive use of mountain berries sets it apart in the world of amari, offering a rare taste of the mountains' wild essence.
The legacy of Pasubio, rooted in the early 20th century, springs from the visionary Giuseppe Cappelletti. It stands proudly as one of the Erboristeria’s inaugural amari, a testament to a century-old tradition of botanical mastery. Traditionally savored neat, at the cool embrace of cellar temperature or gently chilled, Pasubio invites a moment of pure, unadulterated enjoyment.
Yet, its versatility knows no bounds. Transform Pasubio into a refreshing spritz with tonic, soda, sparkling lemonade, or bitter lemon for a simple yet profoundly satisfying experience. It also beautifully complements bourbon, rye, or brandy, adding depth and character to mixed drinks.
The essence of Pasubio is deeply intertwined with the Mugo Pine (pinus mugo), a resilient native of the high mountains of southwestern to Central Europe. Thriving on rocky upland slopes, this pine bears the raw, unyielding spirit of the alpine wilderness. Its buds and young cones, harvested in the spring and sun-dried through the summer and fall, infuse Pasubio with a flavor deeply evocative of its origins, transitioning from an ancient herbal remedy to a cornerstone of traditional amari and spirits.
Antica Erboristeria Cappelletti, established in 1906 and now nestled among the vineyards and apple orchards of Aldeno, 20 km south of Trento, continues to be a beacon of herbal and botanical craftsmanship. Luigi and Maddalena Cappelletti, the fourth generation, maintain the legacy of their forebears, producing famed amari and aperitivi, including the classic red bitter Aperitivo Cappelletti, with unwavering dedication to in-house production and traditional methods.
Vino Amaro, a category enriched by the complexity of wine and the intrigue of herbal infusion, stands apart in the realm of spirits. Beyond the "big three" of wormwood, gentian, and quinine, it embraces a wide array of botanicals once central to aromatized wines, many of which have faded into history. Pasubio, as a herald of this venerable tradition, brings a vinous texture and a profound depth of flavor, elevating mixed drinks with its rich, herbal complexity. Discover the unparalleled breadth and tradition with Pasubio, a treasure of the Dolomites, and a tribute to the timeless allure of the alpine wilds.
