Discovering the origin of the name Amaro del Capo

Amaro del Capo is an Italian liqueur that has gained popularity not only in Italy but also around the world. Known for its unique flavor and herbal ingredients, this bittersweet digestif has a rich history that dates back to its origin in Calabria, Italy.

The name “Amaro del Capo” translates to “Bitter from the Cape” in English. The Cape refers to Capo Vaticano, a beautiful cape located in the southern region of Calabria. The origins of the name can be traced back to the traditional recipe created by Nicola Bove, a pharmacist from the town of Santa Venerina.

Nicola Bove belonged to a generation of pharmacists who were passionate about medicinal herbs and their healing properties. Inspired by his love for the herbs found in the region surrounding Cape Vaticano, Nicola embarked on a journey to create a unique herbal liqueur.

Bove’s quest led him to handpick fifteen different herbs and medicinal plants, carefully selected for their distinctive qualities and flavors. These ingredients were combined and left to macerate in alcohol. The result was a smooth and bittersweet liqueur that later became known as Amaro del Capo.

The name not only pays homage to the place where it was born but also signifies the harshness and beauty of the cape. The rugged cliffs and the wild vegetation found in the region are reflected in the intense flavors and aromatic qualities of Amaro del Capo.

It didn’t take long for the locals to recognize the exceptional qualities of Bove’s creation. Amaro del Capo became a staple in Calabrian households, consumed as a digestive aid after meals or as a refreshing aperitif. The popularity of the liqueur spread beyond the region, gaining recognition throughout Italy and eventually finding its way into international markets.

Today, Amaro del Capo is produced by Fratelli Caffo, a family-owned distillery that has preserved the original recipe and perfected the production process over the years. The herbs used in the liqueur are still sourced locally in Calabria, ensuring the authenticity and quality of the product.

The unique taste of Amaro del Capo comes from a combination of bitter and sweet flavors, with hints of citrus and warm spice. It is often enjoyed neat, over ice, or as an ingredient in cocktails. Its versatility and distinct flavor profile have made it a favorite among mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts worldwide.

In addition to its delicious taste, Amaro del Capo is also treasured for its digestive and medicinal properties. The carefully selected herbs and plants used in the recipe are known for their soothing and digestive benefits, making it a popular choice after indulgent meals.

The journey of discovering the origin of the name Amaro del Capo takes us back to the picturesque landscapes of Calabria, where the rugged beauty of Cape Vaticano inspired a pharmacist to create a liqueur like no other. Today, this iconic Italian amaro continues to captivate the taste buds of enthusiasts around the world, serving as a testament to the rich heritage and craftsmanship of Calabrian spirits.