Luxardo Bitter Bianco

Luxardo Bitter Bianco is a distinctive Italian aperitivo that offers a crystal-clear twist on the classic red bitter liqueur. Bright, herbal, and refreshingly bittersweet, it delivers the botanical complexity of traditional Italian bitters without the deep red color—making it ideal for elegant cocktails like the White Negroni or a refined spritz. Smooth yet lively, it’s a modern bar staple for those seeking both versatility and authentic Italian aperitivo character.

Origins & Craftsmanship
Luxardo Bitter Bianco is produced in Italy by the historic Luxardo family distillery, a company founded in 1821 and widely respected for its contributions to classic cocktail ingredients.

The liqueur is crafted through a distilled infusion of bitter herbs, aromatic plants, and citrus fruits in alcohol and water. The recipe incorporates traditional bittering botanicals such as wormwood, gentian, and citrus peels, along with spices and aromatic herbs that create the spirit’s layered profile.

Unlike traditional Italian red bitters such as Campari, Luxardo Bitter Bianco is clear in appearance, as the botanicals are distilled rather than macerated with coloring agents. This preserves the bitterness and complexity while allowing bartenders to create colorless or lightly tinted cocktails.

The recipe itself dates back to the 1930s, though it was introduced commercially only in the modern cocktail era as bartenders began seeking lighter alternatives to traditional red bitters.

Bottled at approximately 30% ABV, Bitter Bianco balances intensity and mixability, making it both an aperitivo and a versatile cocktail component. 

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Bright and aromatic with orange peel, lemon zest, floral botanicals, and subtle spice, supported by gentle herbal notes.

Palate:
Crisp and bittersweet, featuring grapefruit, bitter orange, gentian, and herbal complexity, with hints of vanilla and warming spice.

Finish:
Long and refreshing with persistent herbal bitterness and citrus oils, finishing clean and balanced.

Quick Overview

Cocktail Recipes

White Negroni (Bianco Style)

• 1 oz Luxardo Bitter Bianco

• 1 oz gin

• 1 oz blanc vermouth
  Stir with ice and serve over a large cube; garnish with an orange peel.

Bitter Bianco Spritz

• 1.5 oz Luxardo Bitter Bianco

• 3 oz prosecco

• 1 oz soda water
  Build over ice and garnish with a lemon wheel.

Bianco Americano

• 1 oz Luxardo Bitter Bianco

• 1 oz blanc vermouth

• Soda water to top
  Serve over ice with an orange slice.

GOLD MEDAL | San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017

SILVER MEDAL | WSWA Tasting Competition 2017