🥃 Averna

Averna is a brand of Italian amaro from Caltanissetta in Sicily. It is a bittersweet herbal drink at 29% ABV, made as an infusion of herbs, dried flowers, spices and liquorice. 1868 is cited as the year the brand was born, and since May 2026 it has been owned by Disaronno Group, formerly known as Illva Saronno.

History. By legend, the recipe was given to Salvatore Averna by Benedictine monks of the Abbey of Santo Spirito in Caltanissetta. Difford's Guide and The Spirits Business give 1868, but the 2026 deal announcement says 1886, so the date is best presented as "by legend". Information about the recipe is limited: the producer keeps it secret, and the press mentions oils of Sicilian bitter orange and lemon and pomegranate peel.

Owners. The brand was long held by Campari Group. On 28 May 2026 Disaronno Group, formerly named Illva Saronno, completed the purchase of Averna together with the Zedda Piras brand for 100 million euros. During a transition period bottling and blending remain at Campari's plant in Canale, and Campari still sells the brand in some countries.

Taste. Difford's Guide describes a dark chocolate colour with bronze glints, an aroma of cola, bitter orange and herbs, and a bittersweet taste with hints of cocoa, liquorice, gentian and rosemary.

Why this matters to you. "Amaro" is an Italian word, not a separate EU category: depending on the sugar, the drink is either a bitter (30) or a liqueur (33). EU law prohibits health claims on drinks above 1.2% ABV, so "good for digestion" is not a valid reason to drink it. The WHO reminds us that there is no safe amount of alcohol.