Luxardo Grappa 750ML is a 40% ABV Italian grappa distilled from Bordeaux-variety grape pomace in a 750ml bottle. Rated Highly Recommended by the Beverage Testing Institute, this expression stands apart for its aging in white ashwood — an uncommon choice that lends exceptional smoothness and a mellow character rarely found in the category. Quick Facts: ABV: 40% (80 Proof) | Origin: Euganean Hills, Veneto, Italy | Aged in White Ashwood | Distillery: Luxardo Production & Heritage Luxardo, founded in 1821 in Zara (now Zadar, Croatia) and later relocated to the Veneto region of northeastern Italy, has long been recognized for its mastery of distillation. This grappa is produced from the lightly pressed stems of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot grapes grown in the Euganean Hills, a volcanic sub-region south of Padua known for its mineral-rich soils. The pomace is kept cool and quickly distilled in a traditional copper discontinuous pot still to preserve freshness, then aged in white ashwood casks — a deliberate departure from the oak or stainless steel aging more commonly employed in grappa production — resulting in a spirit that is notably mellow and rounded. Tasting Notes Aroma: The nose opens with unusual citrus brightness before shifting into delicate lavender and ripe stone fruit. There is an underlying herbaceous quality that hints at the Cabernet Franc component without becoming aggressive. Taste: A viscous entry coats the palate immediately, leading into a medium-bodied mid-palate with remarkable smoothness. The Merlot-derived softness becomes apparent here, with gentle fruit tones and very little of the burn typically associated with grappa. The peak reveals subtle floral and mineral undertones from the Euganean Hills terroir. Finish: The finish is neutral and rounded, fading cleanly without harsh edges. A faint warmth lingers alongside traces of dried stone fruit, making it an approachable close. How to Drink Luxardo Grappa Serve slightly chilled — around 9–13°C (48–55°F) — in a tulip-shaped glass to concentrate the delicate aromatics; it also performs well at room temperature for those who prefer fuller body. Caffè Corretto: A traditional Italian after-dinner pairing where a small pour of grappa is added to espresso, and Luxardo's smooth profile integrates without overpowering the coffee. Grappa Sour: The citrus and stone fruit aromas complement fresh lemon juice and simple syrup in a shaken sour format. Sgroppino: Blended with lemon sorbet and prosecco, this grappa's mellow character and floral notes create a silky, refreshing Venetian digestif. Best For Serving as a traditional Italian digestivo after a multi-course dinner Introducing someone unfamiliar with grappa to the category thanks to its low burn and smoothness Gifting to an Italian spirits enthusiast exploring regional specialties Adding to espresso for an authentic caffè corretto at home Frequently Asked Questions What does Luxardo Grappa taste like? Luxardo Grappa delivers a viscous, medium-bodied palate with citrus, lavender, and stone fruit character, showing very little of the burn commonly associated with grappa. The finish is neutral and rounded, making it one of the smoother grappas in its price range. How does Luxardo Grappa compare to Nonino Grappa? Nonino tends to produce single-varietal grappas with more pronounced aromatic intensity, while Luxardo blends Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot pomace and ages the spirit in white ashwood for a distinctly mellow profile. Both are well-regarded Italian producers, but Luxardo generally positions at a more accessible price point. Is Luxardo Grappa good for beginners? Yes — the white ashwood aging and rapid distillation process yield a spirit with minimal harshness, making it an excellent entry point for drinkers new to grappa. Its smooth, rounded character does not demand the acquired palate that some fierier grappas require. Where is Luxardo Grappa made? Luxardo Grappa is produced in the Veneto region of northeastern Italy, using grapes sourced from the Euganean Hills near Padua. The Luxardo distillery, originally founded in 1821, has been based in the Veneto since the mid-20th century. What foods pair well with Luxardo Grappa? Dark chocolate or chocolate torte complements the spirit's stone fruit sweetness. Aged Italian cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano balance its floral notes with savory depth. Biscotti or cantucci provide a classic textural pairing for dipping. Fresh figs or roasted pears echo the fruit character on the nose. Espresso-based desserts like tiramisu align naturally given the Italian digestivo tradition. What sizes does Luxardo Grappa come in? The standard widely available size is the 750ml bottle. Is Luxardo Grappa worth the price? Luxardo Grappa positions as an accessible, mid-range expression within the grappa category, delivering ashwood-aged smoothness and a Highly Recommended rating from the Beverage Testing Institute at a price point that sits well below ultra-premium single-varietal bottlings from producers like Nonino. Why Luxardo Grappa? The defining differentiator here is the white ashwood aging — a technique that sets this bottling apart from the vast majority of grappas, which are either unaged or matured in oak. That production choice, combined with a tri-varietal Bordeaux-grape pomace base and traditional copper pot distillation, yields a spirit that earned a Highly Recommended rating from the Beverage Testing Institute for its smoothness and approachability. For drinkers who have been put off by the aggressive burn of lesser grappas, Luxardo's expression demonstrates what the category can achieve when raw materials and aging vessel are carefully matched. It is a serious grappa from a nearly two-century-old distillery, priced to be an everyday pour rather than a special-occasion splurge.
