Zucca Amaro Rabarbaro Liqueur

Zucca Amaro Rabarbaro is a beautifully balanced Italian amaro, offering deep rhubarb bitterness softened by warm spice and gentle sweetness. It’s elegant, aromatic, and exceptionally versatile — equally at home as a sipping amaro or as a complex cocktail ingredient.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Created in Milan in 1845 by Ettore Zucca, this iconic amaro is built around Chinese rhubarb root (“rabarbaro”), giving the liqueur its signature earthy-tart bitterness. The rhubarb is slowly macerated with bitter orange peel, cardamom, and a proprietary blend of botanicals that impart its smoky-amber color and layered herbal complexity.
Zucca’s production remains true to its 19th-century origins, crafting an amaro that is bold yet refined, with a distinctively Milanese character. Bottled at approximately 30% ABV, it embodies the bittersweet warmth of traditional Italian aperitivo culture.

Critics Reviews

While Zucca Amaro Rabarbaro isn’t typically scored like fine wines or collectible spirits, industry professionals consistently praise its balance and mixability. Bartenders and spirits writers frequently highlight its approachable bitterness, subtle smoke, and rhubarb-centric depth, calling it one of the most distinctive and food-friendly amari on the market.

Tasting Profile

Nose: Rich aromas of dried rhubarb root, charred orange peel, herbal earthiness, and warm cardamom spice.
Palate: Bitter-tart rhubarb leads the way, supported by layers of caramelized citrus, soft sweetness, and gentle smoky nuance. A silky yet structured mouthfeel.
Finish: Long, dry, and pleasantly bitter, with lingering rhubarb, spice, and orange-pith complexity.

Quick Overview