Berta Distillery

Distillerie Berta, established in 1947 by Paolo Berta in Nizza Monferrato, Italy, is a renowned family-owned distillery celebrated for its exceptional grappas and spirits. Over the decades, the Berta family has upheld a tradition of quality and innovation, positioning the distillery as a leader in the production of fine Italian spirits.

History and Evolution

The Berta family's involvement in the wine and spirits industry dates back to the late 19th century. Francesco Berta, born in 1866, was a landowner and winegrower who laid the foundation for the family's future endeavors. His son, Giovanni, continued in his father's footsteps as a winegrower, while Giovanni's brother, Michele, pursued a career as a pharmacist in Milan, where he produced liqueurs with curative properties. In 1947, Giovanni's son, Paolo Berta, an oenologist, founded Distillerie Berta in Nizza Monferrato, marking the family's official entry into the distillation industry. The distillery initially operated on the ground floor of Paolo and his wife Lidia's home, embodying a commitment to craftsmanship and quality. In 2002, the distillery relocated to Casalotto di Mombaruzzo, returning to the family's roots and expanding its facilities to accommodate growing demand.

Philosophy and Production Approach

Distillerie Berta's philosophy centers on a deep respect for tradition, quality, and the unique characteristics of the Piedmont region. The distillery sources high-quality grape pomace from esteemed regional wine producers, ensuring the freshness and integrity of the raw materials. The distillation process employs steam-powered alembic stills, allowing for a slow and meticulous transformation of the pomace into grappa. This method preserves the delicate aromas and flavors inherent in the grapes. Aging takes place in carefully selected oak barrels, where the grappa develops complexity and depth over time. The distillery offers a diverse range of products, including aged grappas, liqueurs, and amaros, each reflecting the family's dedication to excellence and innovation.

The Berta Family

The Berta distillery remains a family-run enterprise, now in its third generation. Paolo's sons, Gianfranco and Enrico, played pivotal roles in the distillery's growth and success. Gianfranco, passionate about fragrances and flavors, focused on production, while Enrico expanded the distillery's presence internationally. Today, the legacy continues with the involvement of Gianfranco's daughters, Annacarla and Simonetta, and Enrico's daughter, Giulia, who contribute to administration, marketing, and communications. The family's collective efforts ensure that the distillery's values and traditions are preserved and advanced.

Legacy and Influence

Distillerie Berta has significantly influenced the grappa industry, elevating the spirit's status through innovation and a commitment to quality. The introduction of aged grappas, such as the renowned Roccanivo, showcased the potential for grappa to develop complexity akin to fine cognacs and whiskies. The distillery's products have garnered international acclaim, contributing to the global appreciation of Italian spirits. Beyond production, the Berta family has invested in hospitality and cultural initiatives, including the establishment of a natural park and a museum dedicated to distillation, enriching the cultural fabric of the Piedmont region.

In summary, Distillerie Berta exemplifies the harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and family dedication, resulting in spirits that capture the essence of Piedmont's rich heritage.