Paul Kushner
Amaro cocktails are a great way to enjoy the bold and complex flavors of this Italian herbal liqueur. Known for its balance of bitter, sweet, and spiced notes, amaro brings depth to any drink. Depending on the style, it can be mixed into refreshing spritzes, stirred into rich spirit-forward cocktails, or served with soda for a lighter option. Amaro pairs well with citrus, herbs, and even sparkling wine, making it versatile for many occasions. Whether you’re looking for something refreshing, warming, or adventurous, amaro cocktails offer endless ways to enjoy this unique and flavorful liqueur.
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Golden Bourbon Finch
The Golden Bourbon Finch is a well-balanced cocktail that brings together bold and refreshing flavors in one smooth sip. Bourbon provides a warm, rich base with notes of caramel and oak, while pineapple juice adds tropical sweetness that keeps the drink bright and lively.
A splash of amaro introduces gentle herbal depth, giving the cocktail complexity without overwhelming the palate. Fresh lime juice sharpens the mix with a tangy finish, and a touch of simple syrup ties everything together with soft sweetness. Golden in color and full of flavor, this drink is perfect for both sunny afternoons and cozy evenings.
Bitter Citrus Spritz
The Bitter Citrus Spritz is a refreshing cocktail that delivers flavor without being too strong, making it perfect for casual sipping. Built with amaro, prosecco, and soda water, it has a crisp, bubbly character that feels light yet satisfying.
The amaro brings herbal depth and a gentle bitterness, while citrus juice brightens the drink with a zesty lift. Together, they create a balanced mix that is both complex and easy to enjoy. Served over ice and finished with a citrus garnish, this spritz is ideal for warm afternoons, outdoor gatherings, or as a lively start before dinner.
Averna Limonata
The Averna Limonata is an easy-to-make cocktail that proves simple drinks can still be full of flavor. Made with just Averna and sparkling lemonade, this highball combines the deep, herbal richness of the amaro with the bright, zesty character of citrus.
The result is a drink that feels light and refreshing, yet still offers layers of flavor. Served over ice and finished with a lemon wheel or sprig of fresh herbs, it looks as inviting as it tastes. Perfect for relaxed afternoons, casual gatherings, or an easy evening sip, the Averna Limonata is both effortless and satisfying.
King’s Cobbler
The King’s Cobbler is a striking cocktail that balances bold flavors with refreshing fruit notes, making it a standout choice for warm weather sipping. Herbal amaro forms the base, giving the drink a bittersweet depth, while fresh strawberries add natural sweetness and vibrant color.
A touch of citrus brightens the mix, keeping it lively and crisp. Lightly shaken to add lift and double-strained for a smooth finish, this cocktail has both body and elegance. Served over ice, it’s flavorful without being heavy, making it perfect for relaxed afternoons, garden parties, or anytime you want a refreshing yet complex drink.
Bitter Lemon Spritz
The Bitter Lemon Spritz is a refreshing cocktail that delivers flavor without being heavy or overly sweet, making it perfect for easy summer drinking. Fresh lemon juice provides a sharp, citrusy base that wakes up the palate, while Italian amaro adds herbal complexity and a gentle bitterness.
To finish, a splash of crisp lager gives the drink a light fizz and a clean, refreshing edge. Built directly in the glass with little effort, it’s both simple to prepare and enjoyable to sip. This spritz is ideal for warm afternoons, casual gatherings, or anytime you want a drink with character.
Barrymore
The Barrymore is a bold cocktail designed for thoughtful sipping, offering layers of flavor that unfold with time. Scotch provides a strong base with rich character, while a touch of peated whisky introduces a smoky note that lingers gently. Amaro adds complexity with its slight bitterness and herbal depth, giving the drink balance and intrigue.
A small measure of green Chartreuse contributes a unique herbal quality without overpowering the other ingredients. Served short and spirit-forward, it slowly opens up as it warms in the glass. Finished with an orange twist, the Barrymore is ideal for evenings that call for something refined and full of character.
Improved Manhattan
The Improved Manhattan takes the bones of the original and adds a richer, more layered profile. Sazerac Rye lays down a bold, spicy base, balanced by sweet vermouth and the smoky, earthy notes of Zucca Amaro. A blend of Angostura and orange bitters adds complexity and depth, pulling out both warmth and brightness.
Finished with a dark cherry, this version is smooth but assertive slightly bitter, slightly sweet, and full of character. It’s a smart pick for anyone who likes the classic Manhattan but wants something with a little more edge and nuance. Stirred, strained, and best served straight up.
Mezcal Cafe
The Mezcal Café is smoky, rich, and just the right mix of bold and smooth. It brings together the earthy depth of mezcal with the roasted flavor of cold brew or espresso, often rounded out with coffee liqueur or a touch of simple syrup.
Some versions may add a splash of cream or vanilla liqueur for extra softness. Served over ice or shaken and strained, it’s perfect for late-night sipping or as an after-dinner drink. The mix of smoke and coffee makes it warm, slightly edgy, and full of character without being too heavy.
Montenegro Breeze
The Montenegro Breeze is a refined cocktail that blends bright citrus with herbal depth, creating a drink that feels both smooth and layered. Fresh lemon juice adds a lively tang, while light rum brings gentle sweetness and body. Crème de cassis provides rich berry notes that balance the citrus, and Amaro Montenegro adds complexity with its herbal and slightly bittersweet character.
An egg white gives the cocktail a silky texture and a delicate foam top that makes it visually appealing. Finished with a sprig of rosemary, this drink is aromatic, flavorful, and perfect for evenings when you want something special.
Bubbly Paper Plane
The Bubbly Paper Plane is a lively twist on the classic Paper Plane cocktail, adding sparkle and freshness to an already well-loved drink. Michter’s Whiskey lays the foundation with its smooth, rich flavor, while Aperol and Amaro Nonino bring bittersweet depth and complexity.
Fresh lemon juice brightens the mix with a tart edge that ties everything together. To finish, the cocktail is topped with sparkling Prosecco, giving it an effervescent quality that makes it feel festive and uplifting. Light yet layered, this drink is a wonderful choice for celebrations, toasts, or any occasion where you want something cheerful and refined.
Full Monte
The Full Monte is a bold cocktail that highlights the balance between rich whiskey and the complex flavors of Italian amaro. Built with rye whiskey as the base, it offers warm spice and depth, while Amaro Montenegro adds layers of herbal sweetness and gentle bitterness.
A few dashes of Angostura bitters round out the drink with extra spice and complexity, making each sip feel robust and satisfying. This cocktail is a great choice for whiskey lovers who enjoy something classic but with a unique twist. Smooth, flavorful, and balanced, the Full Monte is perfect for evening sipping or slow enjoyment.
Paper Plane
The Paper Plane is a modern classic cocktail that has earned a place in the hearts of bartenders and cocktail lovers alike. Created in the mid-2000s, it offers a perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and citrus flavors.
Bourbon adds warmth and depth, Aperol brings bright bitterness, Amaro Nonino contributes herbal complexity, and lemon juice ties everything together with refreshing acidity. Served in a coupe glass, its beautiful amber-orange hue and smooth, harmonious flavor make it as visually appealing as it is satisfying to sip. This is a cocktail that’s simple to make yet refined enough for any occasion.
