Vecchio Amaro del Capo

The Soul of Calabria in a Glass.
Few liqueurs capture the spirit of their homeland as vividly as Vecchio Amaro del Capo. Born in the sun-soaked region of Calabria, in Italy’s deep south, this amaro has become one of the country’s most iconic after-dinner drinks. Made by the Caffo family, whose distilling tradition dates back to the late 19th century, it blends 29 carefully selected Calabrian herbs, roots, and spices into a recipe that has been refined and guarded for generations.

The result is a liqueur that balances bitterness and sweetness with remarkable finesse. Notes of orange peel, chamomile, liquorice, anise, juniper, and peppermint create a vibrant herbal symphony that speaks of Mediterranean terroir. Unlike many amaros, it is traditionally served ice cold – straight from the freezer – which transforms its character, delivering a velvety, refreshing texture that contrasts beautifully with its complex herbal core.

What makes Vecchio Amaro del Capo stand out is its versatility. While beloved in Italy as a digestif, it is increasingly embraced in Ireland by those looking for an authentic taste of Italy’s drinking culture. Perfect neat after dinner, it also shines as a creative ingredient in cocktails, where its herbaceous depth can transform classics like the Negroni or Manhattan into something uniquely memorable.

A true ambassador of Calabria, Vecchio Amaro del Capo is more than just a drink – it’s an invitation to slow down, connect, and savour tradition. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or revisiting a timeless favourite, this amaro delivers a taste of Italy that feels right at home in Ireland.

Why we love it:
There’s something irresistible about Vecchio Amaro del Capo – a liqueur that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern. We love the way its 29 botanicals capture the essence of Calabria, weaving together citrus brightness, cooling herbs, and warming spices in perfect harmony. Served straight from the freezer, it transforms into a silky, refreshing drink unlike any other, a ritual that makes it truly stand out. Beyond tradition, its versatility keeps surprising us – equally at home as an after-dinner treat, an aperitivo, or the secret ingredient that lifts a cocktail into something unforgettable.