500 Years of Disaronno: A Roman Celebration of Style, Taste and Timelessness

500 Years of Disaronno: A Roman Celebration of Style, Taste and Timelessness

There are brand trips and then there are unforgettable moments that feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. Disaronno’s 500-year anniversary celebration in Rome was one of those rare, pinch me experiences that perfectly blended history, elegance, Italian charm… and, of course, delicious drinks.

When the invitation arrived, I already knew I was saying yes. Disaronno has been a part of my drinks cabinet (and my social life) for years, whether in a Disaronno Sour, a laid-back Spritz, or poured over ice at the end of a great night. But to celebrate 500 years of this iconic Italian liqueur in Rome? That’s something you don’t pass up.

A Brand Built on Style and Passion

Before I dive into the trip itself, let’s take a moment to appreciate the milestone. Disaronno is officially 500 years old. Half a millennium of flavour, craftsmanship, and that unmistakable almond aroma that makes it instantly recognisable. It’s a drink that captures the heart of Italian dolce vita, sophisticated but not snobby, timeless but always current. It’s elegant, warm, and made for moments of togetherness.

The 500-year campaign centres around that spirit of bellezza, passion, and individuality, a celebration of Italian culture through and through. Disaronno doesn’t just represent a drink; it represents a way of living. Think rooftop sunsets, shared laughter, beautiful imperfections, and those late night conversations that last until the early hours.

Arrival in Rome: Michelin Stars and Mixology

Touching down in Rome felt like stepping into a living film set, sunshine, cobbled streets, Fiat 500’s darting past terracotta buildings. Our first evening began in Trastevere, at the Michelin-starred Glass Hostaria, led by chef Cristina Bowerman. This wasn’t just dinner, it was a journey through texture, taste, and Italian creativity. Dishes that looked like art, paired with carefully curated drinks (yes, there was Disaronno involved) set the tone for a celebration of craftsmanship.

Later, we dived deeper into the world of mixology at Drink Kong, ranked among the world’s 50 best bars. It's dark, moody, futuristic and yet, somehow, feels completely in harmony with the old-world charm of Rome. The bartenders here are artists in their own right, each Disaronno based cocktail a twist on tradition and a nod to the brand’s versatility. Whether you prefer a classic Godfather or something with a more experimental edge, Drink Kong delivered.

Rome, Reimagined (with a Fiat 500, of course)

Day two had us exploring the Eternal City in what might be the most Italian way possible: in a fleet of vintage Fiat 500s. Mine was a metallic green number, complete with a fold-back roof and that delightfully tinny engine hum. There’s something magical about driving past the Colosseum or weaving through hidden alleyways in a car that feels like it came straight out of the 1960s. Locals smiled. Tourists snapped photos. We laughed the whole way.

It wasn’t just about sightseeing, it was about feeling the city. Disaronno wanted us to experience Rome not as visitors, but as guests in its living, breathing history. And driving that Fiat, you couldn’t help but feel like you were part of something iconic.

Endless Dolce Vita: A Rooftop to Remember

As golden hour descended, we headed to our final stop: the rooftop of LaLanterna, an elegant glass structure perched above the city’s rooftops. If ever there was a setting to toast 500 years of Disaronno, this was it.

Rome stretched out beneath us, bathed in amber light that perfectly matched the colour of the liqueur itself. A string quartet played softly, glasses clinked, and the Aperitivos flowed freely. This was Endless Dolce Vita in every sense. A celebration not only of a brand but of everything it stands for: elegance, joy, community, and flavour.

We raised our glasses, Disaronno Sour in hand, to 500 years of taste and style. And it felt like being part of something historic.

THANK YOU DISARONNO

What Disaronno has managed to achieve over five centuries is remarkable. From a closely guarded recipe passed down through generations, it’s become the world’s favourite Italian liqueur, known not only for its flavour but for the lifestyle it evokes.

As I left Rome, I couldn’t help but think. Disaronno might be 500 years old, but its story feels more relevant than ever.

Founder of this eponymous blog, focusing on men's fashion & lifestyle.