Grappa Bassano Classica is a classic, clean grappa whose story is inseparable from Monte Grappa and the town of Bassano del Grappa. During both the First and the Second World War, Monte Grappa became the last bastion against invasion and the stage for heroic battles, while the town at its foot (then called Bassano Veneto) played a vital role in logistics and support for the troops at the front, and in sheltering thousands of civilians fleeing villages occupied by the Austro-Hungarian army. In 1928, the town was renamed Bassano del Grappa in honour of the unknown heroes who fell on Monte Grappa, and after the Second World War it was awarded the Gold Medal for Military Valour. This historical context shaped grappa’s place in Italian culture as well: it was during the war years that it became a “sip of courage”, first introduced to many soldiers from central and southern Italy.
Bassano Classica is produced by distilling grape marc from the Breganze DOC area, which includes the surroundings of Bassano del Grappa. It is a grappa without excessive aggressiveness or “weight” on the palate—neat, clearly composed, and highly versatile. Thanks to its clean profile, it works equally well as a small after-dinner pour or as a subtle accent in coffee.
One of the most authentic ways to enjoy this spirit is the local “rasentin” ritual. After an espresso, a few drops of grappa are poured into the still-warm cup and gently swirled to dissolve the remaining sugar and traces of milk foam, essentially “rinsing” the cup. Then you sip it with a smile—a simple, yet unmistakably Italian finale.
We recommend serving it slightly chilled or at room temperature in a small glass, and—if you want to experience the tradition—trying the “rasentin” with coffee.
