Bitter Fusetti Cacao is an Italian bitter with a darker, softer, and more enveloping profile than the original version. It is produced within the Fusetti range by Dripstillery in Milan and reflects the house’s modern approach to bitter: clearly Italian in style, yet with a more contemporary and cocktail-friendly character. In this expression, the classic bitter has been given extra depth through the addition of cacao and orange, creating an elegant balance between bitterness, spice, and dark fruit character.
Production is artisanal and based on infusions that are left to rest for at least 30 days. In the Cacao version specifically, the recipe works with infusions of cacao and orange, giving it a rounder, warmer, and deeper flavour profile than the classic Fusetti. The product was first released as a limited edition, but later became a permanent part of the range due to strong demand. It is bottled at 25% ABV.
On the palate, it shows notes of dark chocolate, cacao, candied orange, citrus, and warm spices. The bitterness is clear but well judged, and the overall impression feels rounder and fuller than many classic red bitters. This is therefore not a sweet chocolate liqueur, but a true bitter in which the cacao notes add structure, texture, and a deeper flavour register.
Bitter Fusetti Cacao works beautifully over ice, as an aperitif, or as an after-dinner drink. It also performs very well in cocktails where you want to give a classic bitter serve a darker, more cocoa-driven expression, for example in a Negronior other aperitif-based drinks. For anyone who appreciates bitters with a little more warmth, depth, and character, this is both a versatile and highly appealing bottling.
