If you’re wandering through the narrow, winding streets of Genoa, there’s one drink you absolutely have to try: Asinello wine. It’s an aromatic white wine, infused with more than fifteen herbs — including thyme, oregano, cinnamon, rhubarb root, clary sage, and juniper berries— which steep together for a month. It truly has a unique flavour.

The Drink of the Caruggi

Asinello is the typical drink of the Caruggi, the famous narrow alleyways in the heart of Genoa. To enjoy it like a true Genovese, order it with a twist of lemon zest and pair it with a tasty slice of focaccia, the city’s iconic snack!

A Sip of History: The Origins of Asinello

Asinello’s story dates back to 1886, when its original recipe was created. The label features a farmer with a donkey, representing the character of Paciugo of Coronata, an old local figure. The drink’s alternative name, Corochinato, comes from its place of origin, the village of Coronata, where it was first produced by the Marenco Company. Today, Asinello is made by Vini Allara, using the white wine Cortese delle Langhe.

Bar degli Asinelli

The most famous place to enjoy Asinello is the legendary Bar degli Asinelli, on “Via Di Canneto Il Lungo”. The bar has become an institution in Genoa, where locals and visitors alike come to experience this traditional drink!

So, if you find yourself in Genoa, don’t leave without trying Asinello. It’s more than just a drink, it’s a taste of Genoese culture and a connection to a proud local heritage!