Distilleria Berta’s Reign as the True Amaretto Artisans.
In the rolling hills of the Piedmont region of Italy, Distilleria Berta has been crafting spirits that are not only steeped in tradition but also bear the mark of a family’s relentless pursuit of perfection. Known as the kings of Amaretto, Berta has claimed its place as one of the premier producers of this beloved Italian liqueur, alongside their renowned Grappa. Their journey from a small family distillery to a global success story is a testament to the quality and passion that go into every bottle.
Origins: A Family’s Vision
The story of Distilleria Berta began with Paolo Berta, a visionary who saw potential in what others considered waste. Coming from a family of winemakers, Paolo was troubled by the idea of discarding the grape pomace left over from winemaking. In the past, this “leftover” was either used as animal feed or as fertilizer. However, Paolo believed there was more to be done with these grape skins, brimming with aroma and flavor.
Inspired by the traditional distillation techniques used during World War II to create Grappa for medicinal purposes, Paolo embarked on a journey to transform the grape pomace into a refined spirit. He started experimenting with the distillation process, refining techniques that would later define the quality and character of Berta’s Grappa. It was Paolo’s innovative spirit and meticulous approach that laid the foundation for Distilleria Berta’s success.
The Craft of Grappa: A Family Legacy
Paolo’s sons inherited his passion for distillation, further enhancing the family’s methods. They introduced an aging process that became a hallmark of Berta’s Grappa, setting it apart from the industrial versions that often lacked the finesse of a carefully crafted spirit. Grappa production at Berta involves a slow, meticulous distillation process that preserves the heart of the grape pomace, eliminating impurities that can lead to harsh flavors.
The family adheres to a discontinuous distillation method, a two-step process that involves cutting off the head and tail of the distillate, preserving only the heart. This ensures the purity and quality of the final product, avoiding the rough, acetone-like taste that can result from shortcuts in the process. This careful attention to detail is why Berta’s Grappa is celebrated for its elegance, smoothness, and aromatic complexity.
The Birth of Amaretto: A True Artisan Liqueur
While Grappa laid the groundwork for Berta’s fame, it was their Amaretto that truly captured the hearts of consumers worldwide, particularly in the Netherlands. Unlike mass-produced versions, Berta’s Amaretto is a careful blend of almonds sourced from Puglia—half roasted, half raw—infused in sugar and alcohol for six months. This lengthy infusion allows the natural flavors of the almonds to develop fully, resulting in a liqueur that is both rich and balanced, with a delicate bitterness and sweetness that dance on the palate.
Many Dutch consumers, accustomed to the well-known commercial brands of Amaretto, were astonished by the depth and authenticity of Berta’s version. Berta’s Amaretto offers a stark contrast to the artificial aromas and flavors often found in the more industrially produced varieties. The experience is akin to tasting the essence of real almonds, inviting drinkers to savor the liqueur sip by sip.
Success in Foreign Markets: A Dutch Love Affair
Berta’s presence in foreign markets, particularly in the Netherlands, has grown rapidly over the past few years. Their production volume in 2023 stood at around 12,000 bottles of Amaretto, with a substantial portion of this heading to foreign markets. The European Union accounts for a little over 60% of their Amaretto sales, with Italy making up around 25%. Among European countries, the Netherlands stands out as the largest consumer of Berta’s Amaretto, representing a good 30% of EU consumption. Belgium follows with roughly 20% of EU consumption, showing a strong regional appreciation for this exquisite liqueur.
This success can be attributed to a combination of quality, authenticity, and the family’s dedication to sharing their story. Italian cuisine and culture have always resonated with Dutch consumers, but Berta’s Amaretto and Grappa brought something novel—a taste of Italy that was both refined and accessible.
Restaurants across the Netherlands began to feature Berta’s products, introducing diners to the nuanced world of Italian spirits. Tastings led by the brand’s ambassador, Alessandra, further helped demystify Grappa and Amaretto, turning initial skepticism into appreciation. Dutch consumers who once associated Grappa with a harsh, burning sensation found themselves intrigued by Berta’s smooth, aromatic spirits. Similarly, those familiar with commercial Amaretto discovered a new level of complexity and quality in Berta’s rendition.
This growing appreciation for Berta’s products in the Netherlands has been so profound that some restaurants began requesting the Amaretto before Alessandra even had a chance to conduct tastings. The allure of Berta’s Amaretto has led to what Alessandra humorously describes as the Dutch “taking showers in Amaretto,” a nod to the fervor with which it is enjoyed.
A Testament to Tradition and Quality
What sets Distilleria Berta apart is not just their products, but the philosophy behind them. Despite their international success and presence in 60 countries, Berta remains a family-run company, with every member dedicated to preserving the authenticity and artistry of their craft. Their approach to production, whether it’s Grappa or Amaretto, is rooted in a respect for tradition, an unwavering commitment to quality, and an appreciation for the stories that each bottle tells.
Even the aging process of their Grappa involves a touch of creativity—using barrels that once held sherry or whiskey to imbue the spirit with unique flavors. Berta sees their products not merely as spirits, but as experiences to be savored. For those who take the time to explore their portfolio, a new world of Italian craftsmanship opens up, one that invites contemplation and a deeper understanding of the art of distillation.
Conclusion: The Reign of Berta
Distilleria Berta’s journey from a small family distillery to a revered name in spirits is a story of passion, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence. Their Grappa and Amaretto have become ambassadors of Italian quality and tradition, bringing the true taste of Piedmont to tables around the world.
In the Netherlands, where their Amaretto has found a particularly enthusiastic audience, Berta has claimed its status as the producer of the one true Amaretto—a spirit that encapsulates the richness of almonds, the heritage of Italian craftsmanship, and the love of a family dedicated to their craft.
This article is written by our own Niels Aarts. Anfors Imperial, Berta’s Dutch importer, has been instrumental in bringing these exceptional products to the Netherlands, and we thank them and Distilleria Berta, in particular Alessandra Donadio, for their collaboration in sharing this remarkable story with our readers.
