Product Offerings
Products:
Grappa: Grappa Bianca, Grappa Riserva, Grappa Extrafina
Liqueurs: Tagliatella, Acqua di Cedro, Amaro Nardini
Aperitifs: Mezzoemezzo Nardini
Distilleria Nardini S.p.A., founded in 1779 in Bassano del Grappa, Italy, is the oldest distillery in the country and a cornerstone of Italian grappa culture. With over 240 years of uninterrupted operation, Nardini represents a legacy of craftsmanship, innovation, and cultural significance in the spirits industry, particularly in the Veneto region and across global premium liquor markets.
Core Business and Offerings
Nardini specializes in the production of high-quality grappa, liqueurs, and aperitifs, offering a comprehensive portfolio under its historic brand. The core product categories include:
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Grappa:
- Grappa Bianca – Classic, clear grappa with a refined, aromatic profile
- Grappa Riserva – Aged in Slavonian oak barrels for enhanced complexity
- Grappa Extrafina – A premium distillate with smooth finish and floral notes
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Liqueurs:
- Tagliatella – A blend of grappa, cherry distillate, herbs, and spices
- Acqua di Cedro – Cedro citrus liqueur known for its bright, zesty profile
- Amaro Nardini – A bitter herbal liqueur ideal as a digestif
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Aperitifs:
- Mezzoemezzo – A unique blend of rhubarb and bitter orange, traditionally served with soda at the historic Ponte Vecchio
These products are distilled using traditional discontinuous steam stills and are renowned for their purity and terroir expression.
Specialization and USP
Nardini distinguishes itself with a dual advantage: heritage authenticity and modern adaptation. It is the only grappa producer granted the use of the original distillery location at Ponte Vecchio in Bassano del Grappa, a status symbol of its deep regional and cultural ties.
Unique selling points:
- Family-owned for over seven generations
- Proprietary recipes dating back to the 18th century
- Use of both traditional and modern distillation technologies
- Products that represent IGP (Indicazione Geografica Protetta) status in certain lines
Nardini is also a pioneer in educational outreach, offering distillery tours and grappa masterclasses.
Target Market
Nardini targets connoisseurs of premium spirits, Italian restaurants, cocktail bars, and global consumers seeking authentic Italian distillates. The brand is particularly strong in:
- Italy (Veneto, Milan, Florence, Rome)
- Germany, Switzerland, and Austria
- U.S., Canada, and Japan
It appeals to a refined demographic aged 30+ who value artisanal production and regional heritage.
Financials and Market Penetration
As a private company, Nardini does not publicly disclose full financials. However, trade and industry reports provide insight into its scale and reach:
- Estimated annual production: over 4 million bottles
- Distribution in over 50 countries
- Approximate export share: 30–35% of total volume
- Presence in premium hotels, Michelin-star restaurants, and luxury duty-free outlets
Retail visibility is high across EU, with inclusion in specialty stores and high-end supermarket chains.
Trade Activity and Export Data
According to EU trade data and industry platforms:
- Nardini is one of the top exporters of grappa from Italy
- Main importers: Germany, U.S., and Japan
- Annual exports valued at €12–15 million, based on trade manifests and customs declarations
Nardini products are shipped via specialized wine and spirits logistics operators to ensure preservation and quality upon arrival.
Capabilities and Operations
- Dual distillation facilities: historic Ponte Vecchio and modern Bortolo Nardini Distillery
- State-of-the-art aging cellars with custom oak barrel systems
- Internal quality control and product development labs
- Sustainable practices including energy optimization and waste reduction
- Visitor center and corporate hospitality for branding and education
Certifications and Compliance
- IGP Veneto Grappa designation for select lines
- HACCP and ISO 9001 certified production process
- Organic certifications under EU regulation for specific liqueurs
- Compliance with FDA (for U.S. exports) and TTB labelling
Nardini products comply with EU alcohol labeling, geographical indication, and sustainability requirements.
Customer Testimonials and Public Recognition
Critics and customers have consistently rated Nardini products highly:
- Grappa Riserva: 94 points – Falstaff Spirits Awards
- Amaro Nardini: Winner – Best Digestif, World Liqueur Awards
- Tagliatella: Rated 4.6/5 by over 2,000 reviews on Vivino and spirits platforms
Testimonials highlight complexity, smoothness, and balance:
“Nardini Grappa Riserva delivers a symphony of oak, dried fruit, and herbaceous depth—hands down the best sipping grappa in the market.”
Achievements and Recognition
- Heritage Award – Gambero Rosso Italian Excellence
- Listed in “Top 10 Craft Spirits Brands in Europe” by Drinks International
- Sponsor of cultural events like the Grappa Festival of Veneto
- Architectural recognition for the Bortolo Nardini distillery (designed by Massimiliano Fuksas)
With its unparalleled legacy, commitment to craftsmanship, and strong international presence, Distilleria Nardini remains an iconic name in the world of premium spirits—bridging centuries of Italian tradition with a forward-looking approach to global beverage culture.