Disaronno, the renowned Italian liqueur, celebrate its 500th anniversary, marking half a millennium of Italian heritage and the elegance of this iconic amber liqueur.
– by Vincentius Alvin –
The story of Disaronno began in 1525 during Italy’s Renaissance, one of the most creative periods in Italian history. Artist Bernardino Luini, a student of Leonardo da Vinci, was commissioned to paint the “Adoration of the Magi”. He sought a model to depict the Madonna in the painting and chose a local innkeeper. As a token of gratitude, the innkeeper gifted him a flask filled with a fragrant, delicate amber-coloured liqueur. This simple yet thoughtful gesture of kindness gave birth to the legendary Disaronno, crafted from a secret blend of ingredients.

In the 1600s, many Italian families distilled their own liqueurs, including Giovanni Reina who rediscovered the original recipe for the amber-coloured liqueur. Disaronno stands out for its unique aroma with a warm and intense sensation on the palate. Giovanni Reina passed the recipe down through generations within the Reina family. By the early 1900s, Domenico Reina had opened a workshop in the heart of Saronno, where the liqueur gained popularity. In 1947, ILLVA SARONNO was founded, marking the beginning of Disaronno’s global journey. Today, Disaronno is enjoyed in over 160 countries worldwide.
As Disaronno celebrates its 500th anniversary in 2025, the brand reflects on its rich heritage and continues to embody the elegance and charm of the Italian dolce vita. A symbol of both tradition and modernity, Disaronno is a timeless ambassador of Italian style and craftsmanship. This milestone will be commemorated globally, from local bars to the prestigious 50 Best Bars and over 700 cocktail bars across Asia. Special campaigns will involve global influencers and engaging activities, including contests offering the chance to win a luxurious trip to Rome.
In Indonesia, the brand will host a special campaign DIS IS OUR WEEK, a celebration from 1 to 6 July 2025, where over 100 venues nationwide will promote signature Disaronno cocktails, allowing people to experience the true Italian dolce vita style and experience the rich and savour the rich, elegant flavour of Disaronno.
TASTING NOTES DISARONNO
ABV: 28%
Colour: Rich golden amber.
Aroma: Expect notes of almond cookies, nougat, dried cherry and orange zest.
Palate: The texture is unctuous and mouth-filling, with flavours reminiscent of marzipan, concentrated almond oil, orange zest, dried cherries and apricots, caramelised sugar and dates.
Finish: The sweetness and fruitiness linger, but with a satisfying mildly bitter sensation that balances the overall flavour.
RECIPES DOLCEVITA
Dolcevita – the signature cocktail dedicated to Disaronno’s 500th anniversary
Created by mixologist Patrick Pistolesi and his team at Drink Kong Bar in Rome, the signature Dolcevita cocktail is a modern and refreshing twist on a classic sour. The deep notes of bitter and whisky blend harmoniously with the unmistakable taste of Disaronno, complemented by the fresh and tropical flavours of pineapple and lemon.
Ingredients:
- 40ml Disaronno
- 20ml Rabarbaro Zucca
- 15ml The Busker Triple Cask Triple Smooth
- 20ml fresh lemon juice
- 10ml pineapple juice
- 5ml agave syrup
- Ice
Method:
Shake all the ingredients with ice and strain.
Exquisite Taste Volume 47
Disaronno
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