Carpano Antica Formula is a testament to the enduring legacy of Antonio Benedetto Carpano, the visionary who invented vermouth in 1786. This iconic spirit is a recreation of an original Carpano recipe, rediscovered and revived to capture the essence of a bygone era.
The production of Antica Formula begins with a careful selection of base wines sourced from various regions in Italy. These wines, primarily from Piedmont, Puglia, Sicily, and Romagna, are chosen for their specific characteristics that contribute to the final flavor profile.
Once the base wine is selected, it undergoes a meticulous infusion process with 30 carefully selected herbs and spices. These botanicals, sourced from around the world, include wormwood, citrus peel, cardamom, and saffron. The infusion process is a delicate balance of time and temperature, allowing the flavors to extract and meld harmoniously.
After the infusion, the vermouth is fortified with neutral spirits to increase its alcohol content and preserve its flavor. The resulting spirit is then aged in oak barrels, where it develops complexity and depth. Depending on the desired flavor profile, this aging process can last several months or even years.
Carpano Antica Formula is a complex and versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in various ways. It can be sipped neat, on the rocks, or used as a key ingredient in classic cocktails. Its rich, herbaceous character and balanced sweetness make it a perfect complement to other spirits, such as gin, whiskey, and rum.
