Trentino Spirits & Bitters

What’s the difference between a liqueur and a bitter?

A liqueur is a sweet alcoholic drink, typically ranging between 15% and 50% ABV. It’s made by blending alcohol with flavourings like herbs or fruit, along with water and sugar. At least 100 grams of sugar per litre, to be precise.

A bitter (amaro in Italian, meaning “bitter”) contains much less sugar and is made using medicinal herbs, roots, and bark. These ingredients are known for their digestive properties, which is why bitters are traditionally enjoyed after a meal.

And what exactly is a spirit?

A spirit (or distilled beverage) is an alcoholic drink with more than 37.5% ABV, obtained through a process called distillation. Here's how it works:

• The base (such as grape pomace or fruit mash) is heated in a still.
• Alcohol evaporates first, at a lower temperature than water.
• The vapour is then cooled and condensed back into liquid—this is the distillate, containing the alcohol and its concentrated aromas.

Distillation in copper stills is the traditional method used to craft grappa, gin, and other iconic spirits like whisky.

In recent years, Garda Trentino has become home to a new generation of distillers, producing gins that combine mountain botanicals with the creativity of local artisans, offering something truly special for discerning palates.