Amante 1530, the Italian amaro founded on the belief that the spritz should be elevated, has officially launched in the UK thanks to a new collaboration with Maverick Drinks.
Launched in 2023 by entrepreneur Ana Rosenstein, Amante 1530 aims to emerge as a significant competitor to the leading names in the aperitivo sector by introducing a contemporary and adaptable take on amaro to one of the most crucial markets in the beverage industry.
A fresh interpretation of amaro
Created by Riccardo Cotarella, a highly regarded oenologist, Amante 1530 features a flavor profile that balances sweetness and bitterness, highlighting Italian citrus, ginger, and honeysuckle. With an alcohol content of 15% ABV and approximately 25% less sugar than the leading brand, this amaro is designed to maintain its integrity in a spritz while allowing for a wide range of mixology options, from short, stirred cocktails to enjoying it neat.
The spirit is crafted at Pallini in Rome, a historic distillery renowned for its female-led production workforce. All the ingredients utilized are natural and sourced from Italy, underscoring the brand’s dedication to a modern interpretation of heritage and simplicity.
A brand shaped by conviction
Stepping away from a career in venture capital, Rosenstein set out to create the aperitivo she believed the market was lacking. Since its launch in the US in 2023, Amante 1530 has expanded into eight countries, witnessed a year-on-year growth rate doubling, and was recognized as Best Brand of 2025 by the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America.
The brand name was inspired by a tarot experience at Il Palagio, the Tuscan estate where the concept originated; the first card drawn was the Lover. With tarot’s roots in Italy dating back to the 1500s and the foundation of Il Palagio in 1530, the name uniquely reflects both its identity and its origins.
“Amante exists because the spritz most people drink hasn’t changed in years,” reported Ana Rosenstein, founder and CEO. “Drinkers are ready for something more elevated. There’s no better place to prove that than the UK. Our goal is to grow the pie, not cut anyone else out of it.”
She characterizes Amante 1530 as a modern heritage brand that is simultaneously nostalgic and romantic, yet fresh and adaptable.
“It certainly makes for a better spritz, but it also works in cocktails, and many of our customers sip it neat.”
Distributor insights
Hannah Burden-Teh, brand manager at Maverick Drinks, believes the UK spritz market is ready for a transformation:
“The popularity of the spritz has surged, but the traditional Italian bitter spritz— the one most people actually order— has never faced serious competition. Amante 1530 is the first brand we’ve encountered with the potential to effect real change.”
