Novara Aperitivo

A bold, Italian-inspired, non-alcoholic bitter aperitivo built for proper zero-proof cocktails. Novara brings the bittersweet snap you want in a classic aperitivo, with bright notes of bitter orange, gentian root, and rhubarb root, balanced by a touch of natural sweetness. Novara is intentionally bitter-forward, with less sweetness than many modern non-alcoholic aperitivi, making it especially well suited to Negronis and classic aperitivo cocktails.

Built for Negronis, Spritzes, and Aperitivo Hour

If you love the ritual of aperitivo hour but want to skip the alcohol, Novara is your go-to base. It delivers the unmistakable Italian-style bitterness and citrus lift that makes a Negroni feel like a Negroni, and a Spritz taste like it came from a world-class mixologist.

Tasting Notes

Bitter orange, layered herbal bitterness, and a smooth, lingering finish.

How to Enjoy Novara Aperitivo

Novara is designed to be used as a true aperitivo base, delivering bitterness, citrus, and structure in classic and modern zero-proof cocktails.

• Make a classic Non-Alcoholic Phony Negroni, where Novara provides the bitter backbone traditionally supplied by Italian aperitivi.

• Build a refreshing Novara Spritz with soda or non-alcoholic sparkling wine for an easy, aperitivo-hour serve.

• Try a tropical, bittersweet Non-Alcoholic Jungle Bird for a more adventurous, rum-style cocktail format.

For more inspiration, explore our full collection of Novara Aperitivo recipes.

Made with Real Botanicals

Novara Aperitivo is crafted using real botanicals with no artificial flavourings or synthetic extracts. Our team carefully selects each botanical for the specific role it plays in building bitterness, balance, and aromatic depth in the finished drink.

The profile is anchored by bitter orange, with a dry, bitter backbone from quassia bark, gentian root, and rhubarb root, which deliver the structured bitterness and citrus lift expected of a classic aperitivo. Supporting botanicals are layered in to add complexity and length without overwhelming the palate.

Key botanicals include:

• Quassia Bark
• Bitter orange
• Gentian Root
• Rhubarb Root

• Additional herbs and spices selected for balance and depth

A small amount of colour is used to achieve Novara’s signature vibrant hue, while keeping the focus on real botanical flavour and a base perfectly suited for cocktails.

Why Choose Novara

• Authentic Italian-inspired bitter aperitivo character
• Designed specifically for zero-proof negronis, spritzes, and other classic cocktails
• Rich botanical depth with a balanced bittersweet finish
• Made in Canada with premium ingredients

Awards & Accolades

• 2022 New Orleans Spirits Competition: Double Gold Medal
• 2022 New Orleans Spirits Competition: Non-Alcoholic Spirit of the Year
• 2022 IWSC: 95 Points, Gold Medal
• 2023 New Orleans Spirits Competition: Gold Medal
• 2024 New Orleans Spirits Competition: Non-Alcoholic Elixir of the Year
• 2024 LA Spirits Awards: Platinum Medal
• 2024 LA Spirits Awards: Best in Show Non-Alcoholic Spirit Alternative

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Novara Aperitivo sweet?

Novara is intentionally bitter-forward, and while it has a pronounced sweetness, it is balanced by the bitter botanicals. It is designed to deliver the firm bitterness and structure expected of a classic Italian aperitivo, rather than a soft or candy-like profile.

Is Novara closer to a Negroni or a Spritz-style aperitivo?

Novara is built to perform properly in Negroni-style cocktails, where bitterness and balance matter most. It also works well in Spritzes, but its profile is more structured and bitter than many spritz-only aperitivi. 

Does Novara contain alcohol?

No. Novara Aperitivo is completely alcohol-free and suitable for zero-proof cocktails and mocktails.

What is Novara made from?

Novara is crafted using real botanicals, including bitter orange, gentian root, rhubarb root, and quassia bark. It contains no artificial flavours or synthetic extracts.

How should I use Novara Aperitivo?

Novara can be used the same way as a traditional bitter aperitivo. Mix it into non-alcoholic Negronis, Spritzes, or serve it simply with soda or tonic over ice and a citrus garnish.

Is Novara suitable for people avoiding alcohol entirely?

Yes. Because it is alcohol-free, Novara can be used freely in non-alcoholic drinks without introducing any alcohol into the final cocktail.