Romano Levi, Grappa di Camomilla

About Romano Levi

Romano Levi was a legendary Italian distiller best known for his artisanal production of grappa in the small town of Neive, in the heart of Piedmont’s Langhe region. Born in 1928, Levi inherited his family’s distillery, which was originally founded in 1925 by his father Serafino Levi, and continued the tradition with a unique, deeply personal approach that set his spirits apart from industrial producers. Working with his sister Lidia, Romano maintained a fiercely traditional method of distillation, using a direct-fire copper pot still—an increasingly rare technique in modern times. His dedication to craft and authenticity earned him a cult following among connoisseurs, collectors, and sommeliers worldwide.

Levi’s grappa was produced exclusively from the fresh pomace of Nebbiolo, Barbera, Dolcetto, and Moscato grapes sourced from local vineyards, many of which are famous for Barbaresco and Barolo wines. The distillation process was entirely manual, with Levi personally overseeing every step, from selecting the pomace to bottling. He believed in minimal intervention, choosing not to age his grappa in wood, so as to preserve the pure essence and aromatic intensity of the base grapes. The result was a spirit that was both powerful and elegant, with a distinctive aromatic profile that reflected the terroir of the Langhe.

One of the most distinctive aspects of Romano Levi’s production was his approach to labeling. Each bottle was adorned with a hand-drawn label, created by Levi himself. These whimsical, often poetic illustrations became an integral part of the brand’s identity, depicting ethereal female figures he called “Donna Selvatica” (the wild woman), along with handwritten notes, dates, and thoughts. The labels turned each bottle into a unique piece of art, further enhancing the allure and mystique surrounding his grappa.

Despite his growing fame, Levi remained a humble, private figure, rarely leaving his modest distillery and shunning modern marketing. He believed in the authenticity of his craft and the importance of tradition, resisting the pressures to expand or industrialize. Visitors to the distillery often found him at work, surrounded by the tools and scents of distillation, always willing to share stories and offer a taste of his latest batch. His philosophy was rooted in simplicity, respect for nature, and a deep connection to his land and heritage.

Romano Levi continued to produce grappa until his death in 2008. His passing marked the end of an era, but his legacy endures through the continued operation of the distillery, now run by a dedicated team who strive to maintain his standards and spirit. Levi’s grappas are now highly sought after by collectors, not only for their quality and unique labels but also for the story and soul they embody. The distillery remains a symbol of artisanal excellence, a testament to the enduring value of tradition, individuality, and passion for the craft.