In the hills outside Turin, where Piedmont's vineyards meet the golden light of evening, a vermouth was born to celebrate Italy's aperitivo culture. Cucielo Dry is made for moments when time is allowed to fly, with a recipe that bridges old-world craftsmanship and a new generation's taste for the crisp and bitter.
Expert's Description
Cucielo Vermouth di Torino Dry is an Italian Vermouth based on white wine with 18% alcohol, produced at Torino Distillati in Moncalieri, Piedmont.
The Cucielo brand was founded in 2018 by Andy Holmes, CEO of Artisan Spirits, working alongside master blender Carlo Vergnano. The name Cucielo combines the Italian words cuculo, cuckoo, and cielo, sky, inspired by the cuckoo's annual migration across Italy. Following the success of Cucielo Rosso and Bianco, the house launched a dry expression in 2022, created specifically for the classic Martini.
Cucielo Dry is flavoured with, among other botanicals, Aloe Ferox, sweet and bitter orange peel from Calabria, elderflower, dried Sicilian lemon peel and cardamom, and is made following the techniques underpinning the Vermouth di Torino designation, recognised as a protected EU appellation in 2017.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The nose is dry and refreshing with fresh Sicilian citrus, light herbal bitterness, elderflower and cardamom.
Palate
The palate offers crisp green apple, bittersweet citrus, elderflower, fresh ginger and warm spices.
Finish
The finish is exceptionally long and mineral.
Specifications
Distillery: Cucielo
Region/Country: Moncalieri, Piedmont, Italy
Type: Italian Vermouth – Vermouth di Torino Dry
ABV: 18%
Size: 50 cl
Serving suggestion: Serve dry in a classic Martini, or with tonic and a slice of citrus
Flavour Profile
Citrus · Herbal · Mineral · Dry · Spicy
Did you know?
Cucielo's mascot is a cuckoo named Chuck, dressed in a pilot's cap and scarf, honouring the bird's annual journey from West Africa to Scotland and back along the full length of Italy.