Carpano Antica Formula Italian Vermouth 37.5 cl 16.5%

In Turin, where the Piedmontese hills cast long shadows over the vineyards, a brand new spirits category was born in 1786. Spices from distant shores met local wine, and the result was a sweetness edged with darkness — a recipe that still guards its secrets.

Expert's Description

Carpano Antica Formula is an Italian Vermouth made to the original 1786 recipe and bottled at 16.5%. The bottle carries the name of its creator, Antonio Benedetto Carpano, who in Turin crafted what many consider the world's first sweet vermouth. The recipe survived war and changes of ownership until Fratelli Branca Distillerie acquired the Carpano house in 2001 and uncovered an old document believed to be one of Antonio Benedetto Carpano's original formulas.

Under the motto "Novare Serbando" — renew by preserving — the distillery has since held onto the same herbal bouquet and the same spices, saffron among them, that built the vermouth's reputation. The base is Italian white wine infused with a long list of mountain herbs and spices. The colour is amber-red with a hint of rust, and the nose carries the pronounced vanilla note Carpano is known for across its entire range. Antica Formula is today considered the benchmark for a classic Negroni and also features in cocktails such as the Americano and the Hanky Panky.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Vanilla meets spice, citrus peel and dried fruit like raisins and cloves — a bouquet that's hard to mistake for anything else.

Palate

Round and full-bodied with bitter orange, dates, cocoa beans and a touch of saffron for a gentle spiced bite.

Finish

Long and warm, with the vanilla lingering last.

Specifications

Distillery: Carpano
Bottler: Fratelli Branca Distillerie
Region/Country: Turin, Italy
Type: Italian Vermouth
ABV: 16.5%
Size: 37.5 CL
EAN no.: 8004400076247
Serving suggestion: Over ice with an orange twist, or as the base of a Negroni, Americano or Hanky Panky

Flavour Profile

Sweet · Spiced · Vanilla-forward · Bittersweet · Aromatic

Did you know?

When Niccolò Branca went through old papers after acquiring the Carpano house in 2001, he found a box containing a handwritten recipe still believed to be the closest surviving link to Antonio Benedetto Carpano's original 1786 formula.

Frequently Asked Questions about Carpano Antica Formula

What is Carpano Antica Formula?

It's an Italian sweet vermouth from Turin, made to a recipe dating back to 1786 and produced today by Fratelli Branca Distillerie. It's known for its bold vanilla aroma and works both as an aperitif and a cocktail ingredient.

What does Carpano Antica Formula taste like?

It offers a sweet, spiced profile with vanilla, bitter orange, dates and a touch of saffron. The nose is deeply aromatic, with citrus peel and dried fruit.

What is Carpano Antica Formula used for?

It's the standard choice for a classic Negroni and also appears in cocktails like the Americano and the Hanky Panky. It can also be enjoyed neat over ice with a slice of orange.

Should Carpano Antica Formula be refrigerated?

Yes, once opened it should be sealed tightly and kept cool and dark, since vermouth is wine-based and oxidises after opening.

Is Carpano Antica Formula worth it?

Yes — it's one of the most respected vermouths in the world and remains a reference point for bartenders globally. Its unchanged recipe since 1786 makes it a dependable choice.

What sets Carpano Antica Formula apart from other vermouths?

Where many vermouths lean on a more neutral herbal character, Antica Formula stands out with its pronounced vanilla note and rich sweetness, a legacy of the original recipe.

What glass should Carpano Antica Formula be served in?

A short whisky glass or tumbler works well for drinking it neat over ice. Served in a Negroni, a classic coupe or rocks glass is the usual choice.