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Cappelletti Aperitivo

Cappelletti Aperitivo

Historic aperitivo from Trentino, one of Italy's oldest red bitters.

Photograph · Cappelletti Aperitivo

The story

What you're tasting

Historic aperitivo from Trentino, one of Italy's oldest red bitters. Wine-based with rhubarb and herbs. Represents the traditional approach to aperitivo production. Cappelletti Aperitivo embodies the wine-based aperitivo tradition, with its red color and herbal-rhubarb profile reflecting the historical approach to aperitivo making.

Cappelletti Aperitivo was created by the Cappelletti family in Trentino, who developed one of Italy's oldest red bitters. The aperitivo represents the wine-based tradition of aperitivo production, which predates the spirit-based aperitivi that became more common in the 20th century. The Cappelletti family's recipe combined wine with rhubarb and herbs to create a distinctive red aperitivo that worked excellently in spritz-style drinks. The brand maintained a regional focus for many years, with Cappelletti being particularly popular in Trentino and surrounding areas, where it was appreciated for its traditional character and wine-based approach. The aperitivo's historical significance has grown as enthusiasts seek authentic, traditional aperitivi that represent the evolution of Italian aperitivo culture. Today, Cappelletti Aperitivo is recognized as one of Italy's oldest red bitters, with its wine-based approach and traditional character appealing to those who appreciate the history and evolution of Italian aperitivo production.

Cappelletti Aperitivo bottle with Trentino setting

Know it

Before you buy

Say it
kahp-peh-LEH-tee ah-peh-ree-TEE-voh
Tasting
Red bitter with wine-based character and notes of rhubarb and herbs. The wine base provides acidity and fruitiness, while rhubarb adds tartness and juiciness. The herbal notes add complexity. The profile is balanced, with wine, rhubarb, and herbal notes working together. The finish is clean and refreshing, with wine and herbal notes.
How to buy
Look for Cappelletti Aperitivo in specialty spirits shops, particularly those focusing on Italian products. Verify it is produced in Trentino. Check for 17% ABV. Cappelletti may be less widely available than more commercial aperitivi but should be found in specialty shops. The wine-based character should be apparent.
Spot the fakes
Verify producer authenticity. Check for proper labeling indicating production in Trentino. Beware of imitations.
Keep it
Unopened: Best consumed within 3-5 years. After opening: 2-3 years.

The making

How it's made

Cappelletti Aperitivo production follows the traditional wine-based method, which uses wine as the base rather than neutral spirits. The process begins with wine, which is infused with rhubarb and herbs. The botanicals are macerated in the wine base for varying periods, allowing the alcohol and wine character to extract flavors and aromas. After maceration, the liquid is filtered and sweetened, creating the characteristic red aperitivo profile. The wine base gives Cappelletti its distinctive character, with the wine's acidity and fruitiness complementing the rhubarb and herbal notes. The final product is bottled at 17% ABV, making it light enough for extended social drinking. The production process emphasizes the wine-based character, creating an aperitivo that represents the traditional approach to aperitivo making. The result is a distinctive aperitivo with a red color and herbal-rhubarb profile that reflects the historical wine-based tradition.

Cappelletti Aperitivo represents the traditional wine-based aperitivo tradition, embodying the historical approach to aperitivo production that predates modern spirit-based aperitivi. It is enjoyed by enthusiasts seeking authentic, traditional aperitivi that represent the evolution of Italian aperitivo culture. Cappelletti's wine-based approach and historical significance make it appealing to those interested in the history and traditions of Italian aperitivo production. The aperitivo is often featured in bars and restaurants that emphasize traditional Italian aperitivo culture, where it serves as both a drink and a connection to the historical evolution of Italian aperitivi.

Bottles of amari and Chianti on a bar shelf