Peroni stands not only as Italy’s best-selling beer brand but also as a symbol of the country’s style and sophistication. With its crisp, refreshing profile, Peroni has become a staple in bars, restaurants, and homes around the world. Its appeal stretches from sunny terraces in Rome to dinner tables in California. But what lies behind its enduring popularity, and does the beer truly earn its international prestige?
A Legacy Brewed in History
Peroni’s roots trace back to 1846, when Francesco Peroni founded the original brewery in the town of Vigevano, near Milan. By 1864, operations expanded to Rome, marking the beginning of the brand’s integration into Italian culture.
Throughout its evolution, Peroni adapted to changing times, surviving major historical events including World War II. It flourished during the post-war economic boom of the 1950s. In 1963, the company introduced its most iconic product: Nastro Azzurro, a premium lager with a more pronounced flavor designed for discerning drinkers.
Today, the company operates three production facilities in Rome, Bari, and Padua. Despite becoming part of the Japanese brewing giant Asahi Group in 2016, Peroni maintains strong Italian ties through continued production within the country and a brand identity deeply rooted in its national heritage. The company now produces approximately 600 million liters of beer annually.
Tasting Profile: Peroni Nastro Azzurro
Peroni Nastro Azzurro is often described as a crisp and light-bodied lager, offering a balanced flavor profile with subtle notes of citrus and crackers. While critics argue that it lacks boldness, supporters view its clean and refreshing nature as its greatest strength — especially in warm weather or alongside food.
The beer is crafted for those who appreciate a clean palate and an easy-drinking experience. Although it may not satisfy those seeking complexity or depth, its appeal lies in its elegant simplicity and versatility.
The Story Behind the Name
“Nastro Azzurro” translates to “Blue Ribbon” in English and pays homage to the Blue Riband — an informal accolade awarded to the fastest transatlantic ocean liner. In 1933, the Italian liner SS Rex claimed the title with a top speed just under 29 knots, breaking a tradition previously dominated by American, British, and German ships.
This sense of national pride inspired both the name and the packaging design. Every Peroni Nastro Azzurro bottle features a symbolic blue ribbon around its neck, honoring the ship and the spirit of Italian craftsmanship.
Brewing Process: Quality at Every Step
Peroni’s brewing process emphasizes quality ingredients and careful technique. It begins with steeping high-grade Moravian barley to initiate germination, followed by slow drying at increasing temperatures to preserve delicate flavors. The malted barley is then mashed with water, and the resulting wort is boiled and infused with noble hops such as Saaz, which add subtle bitterness and aromatic character.
Yeast is added to ferment the wort into beer, which is later filtered, inspected, and packaged. The result is a finely balanced lager with a clean finish.
Serving and Pairing
Best served ice-cold in a slender pilsner-style glass, Peroni Nastro Azzurro retains its aromatic qualities while showcasing its clarity and carbonation. Its refreshing nature makes it an ideal companion to a variety of dishes, particularly lighter fare such as salads, seafood, and spicy cuisine.
According to the brand, Peroni pairs exceptionally well with Italian staples, but its versatility also makes it a good match for international flavors, including Mexican and Indian dishes.
Price and Value
Peroni is often priced higher than many mainstream lagers. For casual drinkers, the difference may seem negligible, but aficionados often recognize and appreciate its refined profile. While it may not always be the beer of choice for every occasion, its consistent quality makes it a worthwhile option for those seeking a premium experience.
Comparisons Within and Beyond the Brand
Peroni vs. Birra Moretti L’Autentica:
While Peroni offers a light, crisp flavor, Birra Moretti’s L’Autentica provides a slightly fuller body and more pronounced malt. Both beers are highly regarded, with the preference largely depending on the drinker’s mood or context.
Peroni Gran Riserva Doppio Malto:
For those desiring a bolder experience, Peroni’s Gran Riserva Doppio Malto delivers a malt-forward profile with toasted sweetness and a higher alcohol content (6.6% ABV compared to Nastro Azzurro’s 5.1%). It’s a more robust alternative designed for special occasions or richer pairings.
Inclusive Options: Gluten-Free and Non-Alcoholic
Gluten-Free:
Peroni offers a gluten-free version of Nastro Azzurro, using a special enzyme at the end of fermentation to remove gluten. The result closely mirrors the original, with only minimal changes in bitterness and finish, making it a standout option for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
Non-Alcoholic (0.0%):
Nastro Azzurro 0.0% replicates much of the original beer’s crispness and clarity. While the lack of alcohol slightly alters the aftertaste, the beverage retains the refreshing qualities that make Peroni a favorite. It offers a top-tier choice for lager enthusiasts seeking a non-alcoholic alternative.
Collaborating with Ferrari: A Celebration of Italian Excellence
Peroni recently partnered with Ferrari, aligning two of Italy’s most iconic brands in a multi-year Formula 1 sponsorship. The campaign highlights the non-alcoholic Nastro Azzurro 0.0%, promoting responsible consumption while reinforcing the shared values of passion, style, and innovation. Both Ferrari drivers have participated in the campaign, further elevating the collaboration’s visibility.
Defining Italian Beer Culture
Peroni exemplifies Italian beer culture — beers that are light, crisp, and refined. While other Italian brands have emerged on the global scene, Peroni remains the benchmark for the country’s brewing reputation. Its elegance and balance reflect Italy’s celebrated lifestyle of sophistication and social enjoyment.
Ownership and Authenticity
Despite being owned by Japan’s Asahi Group since 2016 and having U.S. production managed by Molson Coors, Peroni continues to assert its Italian identity. The company points to its unchanged recipe, continued Italian production, and rich legacy as evidence of its authenticity.
While some question its international manufacturing footprint — particularly the U.S.-produced batches from Georgia — Peroni remains deeply associated with Italian brewing traditions and is widely regarded as a global ambassador of Italian beer.
