A variety of grappas and liqueurs are produced in the Lake Maggiore area, following a tradition that has its roots in the Middle Ages. It is still customary to be offered a small glass of one of these drinks at the end of your meal in a local restaurant.

Classic liqueurs from the Ossola are Fil da fer, invented in a mountain refuge on Monte Rosa, and white or green Genepy, made from the aromatic Alpine herb Artemisia genepi. The best-known local liqueur in the lake area is Amaro Mottarone, an infusion produced from thirty different ingredients: herbs, roots, citrus fruits, flowers and spices.

The Distilleries of the Francoli Brothers (Distillerie Fratelli Francoli) in Ghemme in the Novara Hills produce an outstanding range of grappas which they export all over the world.