Poli Uva Viva Italiana is an acquavite d’uva — a grape distillate made from whole grapes rather than pressed pomace — and it is poured at Grappa in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood. It is made by Poli Distillerie in Schiavon, near Bassano del Grappa in the Veneto. We list it because it tells a quieter, more aromatic chapter of the grape story than grappa itself: where grappa is distilled from pomace, Uva Viva is distilled from the whole fermented grape, capturing the perfume of fresh fruit in the glass.
About the Producer
The Poli family has been operating stills since 1898, working in Schiavon at the foot of the Veneto hills, in the region most renowned for grape distillates. Across four generations they have built a reputation for elegant, artisanal spirits drawn from local grapes, and Uva Viva sits among their gentlest and most aromatic expressions.
Style & Production
Unlike grappa, which is distilled from the pomace left after winemaking, Uva Viva is an acquavite d’uva made by fermenting whole grapes — a blend of Italian white varieties including Malvasia and Moscato. The fermented grapes are distilled slowly in Poli’s bain-marie still, a method of gentle, indirect heat that preserves the delicate floral and fruit aromatics. The result is a clear, unaged distillate that drinks like the captured essence of fresh white grapes.
Tasting Notes
Expect a fragrant nose of white grape, orange blossom and orchard fruit — apricot, pear, a touch of apple. The palate is soft, fresh and aromatic, more floral and fruit-forward than a grappa, with a clean, persistent finish. It is graceful and quietly perfumed, ideal for slow sipping after a meal.
What to Pair It With
As a sipping digestif, Uva Viva is lovely after dessert. Enjoy it alongside Mama’s Tiramisu or with our Charcuterie Board, its floral lift cutting through richer bites. Explore the full dine-in menu to round out the evening.
How It’s Served at Grappa
Poli Uva Viva Italiana is poured at $18, served neat at cool room temperature so its aromatics can open.
FAQ
Where is it from?
It is made by Poli Distillerie in Schiavon, near Bassano del Grappa, in the Veneto region of northeastern Italy.
What does it taste like?
It is fragrant and soft, with white grape, orange blossom and orchard fruit like apricot and pear, finishing clean and aromatic.
How is it different from grappa?
Grappa is distilled from grape pomace left over from winemaking, while Uva Viva is an acquavite d’uva distilled from whole fermented grapes, making it more floral and fruit-forward.
When you’re ready, book a table, explore the cocktail & spirits list, and browse the dine-in menu.
