Riserva Carlo Alberto Red Vermouth 75CL

The origin of this historic formula dates back to 1837 when a courtly recipe was reinterpreted to create a unique aperitif worthy of royalty. A clear homage to the era, the foundational recipe was originally prepared by the cook at the king's court for King Carlo Alberto. The regal instructions later passed to a skilled vintner named Tumalin Bartolomé Baracco de Baracho, who commercialised the production and named the brand after the monarch.

Tasting Notes

Riserva Carlo Alberto Red presents an intense, clear deep red-brown colour highlighted by vibrant Bordeaux reflections. The nose is remarkably complex, opening with an aromatic burst of wild herbs, earthiness, and vinous depth, alongside notes of stewed red berries, ripe plum, rosemary, and thyme. On the palate, this premium vermouth provides a wonderfully balanced profile that marries a gentle sweetness with a sophisticated herbal bitterness. Distinctive flavours of cherries, plums, and sweet summer fruits emerge gracefully alongside warm, sweet spices, burnt caramel, and orange zest. The mouthfeel is lifted, smooth, and rounded. It culminates in a persistent, dry finish that leaves a warming aftertaste of cinnamon, nutmeg, tarragon, cloves, cardamom, and a hint of bitter chocolate.

Estate History and Distilling Methods

This elegant expression of Piedmontese vermouth is crafted with exceptional expertise, using a base of two highly regarded Piedmontese DOCG wines: Moscato d'Asti and Erbaluce di Caluso. The production method involves aromatising this superior wine base by macerating a selected blend of 25 to 27 premium botanicals—including star anise, gentian, tonka bean, and bitter orange—in 45 percent neutral alcohol for a period of 40 days. Following filtration and careful blending with the wines, the liquid is cask-aged in Piedmont barrels for three to six months to achieve its deep structure and perfect harmony. Reflecting its royal heritage, the striking bottle design is inspired by the iconic architecture of Turin, capturing the essence of Palazzo Madama, Art Nouveau transitions, and the columns of the Gran Madre di Torino.

•    ABV: 18%
•    Bottle Size: 75 cl

Serving and Cocktail Suggestions

This versatile vermouth is ideal to savour neat, slightly chilled, or poured over a large ice cube with a twist of orange peel to highlight its citrus complexities. For an exceptional cocktail experience, it serves as a luxurious foundation for bar favourites:

•    The Manhattan: Combine 25 ml of Riserva Carlo Alberto Red with 75 ml of rye or bourbon whiskey and a dash of Angostura bitters; stir with ice and strain into a chilled coupe glass.
•    The Negroni: Stir equal parts vermouth, bitter Campari, and London dry gin over ice, then garnish with a fresh orange slice.

Food Match Pairings

To complement its bittersweet richness and warm spiced finish, serve this red vermouth alongside:

•    Savouriy Antipasti: Cured meats like parma ham, salami, and rich pâtés.
•    Aged Cheeses: Mature Pecorino, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or sharp blue cheeses.
•    Snacks & Sweets: Toasted nuts, earthy figs, or a few squares of premium dark chocolate.