The Grappa & Tonic is an Italian highball poured at Grappa in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood. It is our namesake aperitivo, built on Tosolini Cividina Grappa from the Friuli region of northeastern Italy, lengthened with Mediterranean tonic and a fresh squeeze of lime. It is on our list because nothing better captures the spirit of the house: a refined, easy-drinking start to the evening that puts grappa, our signature distillate, front and center.
What’s In It
The build is simple and precise. We pour Tosolini Cividina Grappa, a crystalline artisan grappa from the third-generation Bepi Tosolini distillery near Udine, over ice, then top it with Mediterranean tonic and finish with lime. Cividina is distilled in traditional copper stills from local Friulian grape varietals, giving the highball a soft, floral backbone. The Mediterranean tonic adds gentle botanical bitterness and effervescence, while the lime lifts everything with citrus brightness. Served tall over ice, it is the Italian answer to the classic gin and tonic.
About This Cocktail
The grappa highball is a modern Italian aperitivo, a lighter cousin of the gin and tonic that swaps juniper spirit for grappa. At Grappa, it is a house favorite because grappa is at the heart of who we are. Tosolini Cividina is often called one of the finest grappas of Friuli, crisp and flowery with hints of peach, apricot, almond and citrus oil. Lengthened with tonic, that delicate distillate becomes a refreshing, sessionable aperitivo built to open the appetite.
Tasting Notes
The aroma is crisp and floral, with soft fruit and a whisper of citrus oil. The palate is light and effervescent, the gentle grape character of the grappa carried on quinine-edged tonic. The finish is clean and dry, with lime keeping it bright. Easygoing and refreshing rather than heavy or spirit-forward.
What to Pair It With
This crisp aperitivo loves a light start to the meal. Try it with our Heirloom Tomatoes & Burrata, a plate of Our Hummus, or the tender Spaniard Octopus. Explore the full dine-in menu for more.
How It’s Served at Grappa
The Grappa & Tonic is a hand-crafted cocktail at $12, served tall over ice.
FAQ
What’s in the Grappa & Tonic?
Tosolini Cividina Grappa, Mediterranean tonic, and fresh lime, built tall over ice as an Italian highball.
What does it taste like?
Crisp and floral with soft fruit and citrus, lifted by effervescent tonic and a clean, dry finish from the lime.
Is it strong?
No. Lengthened with tonic over ice, it is a light, refreshing aperitivo rather than a strong, spirit-forward drink.
Ready to visit? Book a table, browse the full cocktail list, and see the dine-in menu.
