About Gin and Genever from Italy

About Gin  and  Genever from Italy
Any discussion of spirits in Italy must begin with grappa, a powerful product distilled from left over grape skins and seeds that is produced all over the country. While the basic grappas can be rough and fiery, there are a handful of firms, especially in the north, that craft refined, artisanal versions that offer more delicate aromas and subtle flavors. Often packaged in strikingly-designed glass and crystal bottles, many of these dazzling products have now taken their rightful place alongside designer spirits at glamorous bars in London, Paris, New York, Chicago and Los Angeles. Amaro, a digestif, is a popular liqueur, made everywhere in Italy; each version is produced from a special recipe of herbs and spices. These tend to be dry, with some being slightly bitter. Finally, two other Italian spirits that have become quite popular in America include Amaretto, a sweet liqueur made from almonds, and Sambuca, a dry spirit made from anise seed.

Top Picks for Italy

Gin and Genever

Luis Gin 8 Gin
89 points
$23
Gin
A very nice example of a modernist style Gin with the fruit essence leading the herbal and juniper tones.
Solaro Capri Gin
89 points
$120
Subtle yet pronouncedly aromatic and layered; this Gin smells and tastes like a spice shoppe where every moment there is a new flavor or aroma being detected.
Malfy Rosa Pink Grapefruit Gin
86 points
$28
Solid for a flavored Gin; integrates well without completely losing the identity of Gin while adding some fun, playful, fruity flavors.
Luxardo Sour Cherry Flavored Gin
86 points
$36
A nice fruity sloe-gin-like gin with good balance and length.