Autumn in Italy unfolds in a softer rhythm, far from the summer crowds. From Umbria to Tuscany, hillsides blaze with gold and crimson foliage, while vineyards glow under harvest skies.

FROM SUMMER APERITIVO TO FALL APERITIVO 

Italy’s version of happy hour, l’aperitivo, is still enjoyed in the early evenings. This beloved social custom gathers friends and family together to unwind, share drinks, and enjoy light snacks between work and dinnertime.

In the autumn, Negronis and Americano cocktails step in as the cooler season’s answer to summer spritzes. Both the classic Negroni and lighter, fizzy Americano, are made with Campari, a bitter Italian aperitif liqueur known for its vibrant red color. Its intense bitterness is used to stimulate the appetite, and make you hungry for your main meal.

However, you can substitute the harsh Campari with Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto, an elegant low-ABV liqueur that is more floral and citrusy than bitter.

Italicus is a take on Rosolio, an Italian aperitif made from rose petals dating back from the 15th century. It uses Calabrian Bergamot oranges, Sicilian citrons, chamomile from Lazio, and herbs - lavender, yellow roses, lemon balm, and gentian, from Northern Italy. 

Produced at Torino Distillati, a family-owned distillery near Turin, Italicus is bottled in an aquamarine-colored bottle made of ribbed glass, and colored to represent the Amalfi Coast.

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CLASSIC ITALIAN COCKTAILS FOR THE FALL

Bianco Negroni

Commonly referred to as a White Negroni, this crystal-clear version calls for one part Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto, one part London Dry gin, and one part dry vermouth. Combine ingredients in an ice-filled rocks glass, and stir well. Garnish with a pink grapefruit wedge or three olives.

Compared to a traditional Negroni's Campari, the Italicus Bianco Negroni offers a much lighter and more delicate bitter flavor.

ItaloAmericano

Lighter and less intense than a Negroni, the refreshing Americano cocktail is also easy to make: 1.5 oz of Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto and 1.5 Oz of Savioa Americano Russo or sweet vermouth.

Savoia Americano Rosso is an Italian, wine-based aperitivo that blends Italian bitter and sweet vermouth with a base of Trebbiano wine, oak-aged Marsala wine, and over 20 botanicals. It has a  bittersweet flavor; and is named for the Italian royal family that unified Italy.

Pour each aperitif into an ice-filled tumbler glass. Then, topped with grapefruit soda or soda water. Garnish with grapefruit wheel or orange peel.

Both are lower-alcohol drinks that are perfect for sipping before a meal. 

WEB: https://rosolioitalicus.com/

IG: @italicusrdb

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WEB: https://casa-savoia.com/savoia-rosso/

IG: @casa.savoia

THE L'APERTIVO EXPERIENCE AT FELICE 

Felice restaurants bring a sophisticated taste of Italy to the U.S., offering refined dining that stays true to authentic Italian spirit. FELICE, pronounced “Fe-Lee-Che,” also means “happy” in Italian.

Since the first location opened on Manhattan’s Upper East Side in 2007, Felice has expanded across New York and into Florida, with new flagships in West Palm Beach and downtown Miami. FELICE Brickell, located in the heart of Miami’s vibrant neighborhood, and Felice West Palm Beach, a Tuscan-inspired restaurant and wine bar, each carry the same warmth and elegance.

A highlight of Felice is its cocktail program, which brings the Italian aperitivo tradition stateside. Guests can enjoy classics like the Negroni and Americano, along with inventive drinks crafted with Italicus. 

For example, the Durante offers a unique twist on the Negroni with Portofino Gin,Pair Italicus, Martini Bitter, and plum syrup, while the Bianco Spritz blends Italicus, Strega, mint, cucumber, and Prosecco for a lighter, refreshing option. 

Pair the classic fried appetizer, Arancini -oregano spiced rice balls stuffed with tomato and mozzarella; served with tartar sauce.

Each space invites you in with a welcoming bar area, leather banquettes, and warm accents, making it the perfect setting to experience Italy’s culinary and cocktail culture—no passport required.

WEB: https://www.felicerestaurants.com/

IG: @felice.restaurants

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THE ULTIMATE ITALIAN FALL ESCAPE 

Tuscany is a region of stunning beauty, known for its rolling vineyards, tall cypress trees, and charming countryside that feels far removed from the bustle of its larger cities. The landscape stretches to the Tyrrhenian Sea, where a scenic coastline and islands like Elba add to its appeal. 

At its center is Florence, the capital, home to world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture. Florence, along with Siena and the Val d’Orcia valley, has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural and historic importance.

In the heart of Montalcino, within the UNESCO-listed Val d’Orcia, Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco offers guests an authentic Tuscan escape. This 5,000-acre, 900-year-old estate—founded by Massimo and Chiara Ferragamo—features 42 elegant suites, 11 private villas, and historic landmarks such as 12th-century castle ruins, a 14th-century medieval church, and the borgo village, the lively heart of the resort.

The estate is also a celebrated culinary destination. Guests can dine at the two-Michelin-starred Ristorante Campo del Drago or enjoy authentic Tuscan flavors at Osteria La Canonica, both led by Executive Chef Matteo Temperini.

La Canonica Cooking School, located in the former priest’s house at the center of the borgo, offers hands-on lessons in traditional Tuscan cooking. Seasonal experiences include grape harvesting and stomping, as well as Sapore d’Autunno (select dates in October, November, and December), where guests help gather ingredients from the garden and prepare recipes that celebrate autumn, guided by the Chef’s expertise

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Osteria La Canonica

Osteria La Canonica, located in the heart of the borgo near the church of San Michele, welcomes guests with the warm, rustic charm of a traditional Tuscan trattoria. Its shaded veranda overlooks the valley.

Here, guests can savor classic Tuscan dishes like panzanella - a light bread and tomato salad and wood-fired pizzas made with ingredients from the estate’s organic garden and local producers.

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco is the perfect place to celebrate the season, including Thanksgiving. This November, guests can enjoy an Italian-style holiday surrounded by golden fall foliage. 

The festive weekend includes truffle hunting, a hands-on cooking class, and a wine tour at the Castiglion del Bosco winery—ending with a delicious Thanksgiving dinner with a Tuscan twist.

With its breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, and culinary traditions, Rosewood Tuscany offers the perfect Italian escape for autumn.

WEB:  https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/castiglion-del-bosco

IG:  @rosewoodcastigliondelbosco

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Autumn in Italy is more than just a season—it’s a celebration of culture, cuisine, and community. From sipping Negronis infused with Italicus to savoring rustic Tuscan dishes under golden vineyards, every moment captures the essence of la dolce vita. Whether you’re raising a glass at Felice in New York or discovering the timeless beauty of Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, the Italian fall experience offers the perfect balance of tradition and indulgence