Paul Kushner
Amaretto is a sweet Italian liqueur known for its distinct almond flavor and rich, velvety texture. With its origins dating back to the 16th century, amaretto has become a popular ingredient in a wide range of cocktails and desserts. As the demand for this beloved liqueur continues to grow, there are now numerous brands on the market, each offering their own unique take on this classic spirit.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
When it comes to choosing the best amaretto brand, there are several factors to consider, including the quality of the ingredients, the production process, and the overall flavor profile. Some brands may use traditional methods and recipes, while others may incorporate modern techniques and innovative flavors. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which amaretto brand is truly the best. In this guide, we will explore some of the top amaretto brands on the market, highlighting their key attributes and what sets them apart from the competition. Whether you’re a seasoned amaretto enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of Italian liqueurs, this guide will help you navigate the diverse landscape of amaretto brands and find the perfect one for your preferences.
Lazzaroni Amaretto
Lazzaroni is first and foremost a baked goods company, originating in Saronno Italy in 1888. Lazzaroni drew the inspiration for their proprietary amaretto from their signature almond cookie product known as Lazzaroni Amaretti. They continue to use the century-old recipe for amaretto, with a perfect balance of apricot and almonds. It makes for great fall flavors.
Amaretto Di Amore
The Di Amore brand is a well-respected Italian liqueur brand that produces all the famed Italian liqueurs including Limoncello, Quattro Orange, and Amaretto. Amaretto Di Amore uses a base of crushed apricots to create a sweeter product with a rich almond finish. Amaretto Di Amore is a great additive to mask harsh alcoholic flavors in a cocktail or to add sweetness and flavor to a dessert.
Disaronno Amaretto
Disaronno Amaretto is a refined Italian brand that uses a top-secret centuries-old family recipe to create an elegant amaretto. Disaronno Amaretto has been a staple Italian brand since 1825. The rich apricot and almond flavor lead one to surmise that the key ingredient comes from apricot stones. This Amaretto stands out for its elegant, rich flavor without being too sweet.
Luxardo Amaretto
While you might know Luxardo for their delicious syrupy cherries, they also produce an award-winning amaretto. True to form, the famed maraschino cherry producer uses cherry pits in addition to peach and apricot pits to create its unique Amaretto. Luxardo Amaretto distinguishes itself with a unique flavor palate that includes vanilla and a dry finish.
Caffo Amaretto
Caffo is a century-old distillery in Sicily that is still family-owned. They use local Sicilian almonds, ground and blended with herbs to elaborate their delicious Caffo Amaretto. The use of real almonds instead of fruit stones gives Caffo Amaretto an especially intense nuttiness. Many liken sipping Caffo Amaretto to biting into almond marzipan.
Bepi Tosolini Saliza Amaretto
Tosolini is a well-known Italian grappa producer, but they also produce a wonderful and complex Amaretto. Bepi Tosolini Slaiza Amaretto uses a recipe of crushed almonds from which to derive a rich and sweet almond flavor. The flavor palate also features notes of candied apricot, macaroon, orange zest, and vanilla.
Adriatico Amaretto
Named for the Adriatic sea from which they source their salt, Adriatico is a modern liqueur distillery in Italy that has created the most unique version of Amaretto yet. It uses single-sourced roasted almonds blended with spices like cinnamon flavor and aromatic flavors of coffee, chocolate, and vanilla. The result is a much drier, less sweet Amaretto with a highly complex flavor palate including honeycomb toffee, bitter almond, and almond butter.
Gozio Amaretto
Gozio Amaretto is an Italian brand that sources its various ingredients from the finest purveyors and growers around the world to insure a top-quality product. Their elaborate amaretto recipe includes various fruit essences, burnt sugar, and alcohol that steeps for 60 days. Gozio Amaretto stands out for its clean, toasted almond flavor and its uniquely light-bodied mouthfeel.
Knight Gabriello Amaretto di Toscana
Knight Gabriello Amaretto di Toscana is a Tuscan distiller that produces the most elaborate amaretto yet, using a recipe that features over 27 different Italian herbs. The blend of herbs with stone fruit makes for a spicy aroma and finish along with a slightly bitter almond palate. This product is the perfect choice for sophisticated cocktails.
