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.
Strawberry Jam Paper Plane
Strawberry Jam Paper Plane is one of those cocktails that feels both familiar and a little unexpected in the best way. The first time I made it, I already liked the classic Paper Plane, but the addition of strawberry jam made it stand out right away.
This version keeps the equal-parts structure, so it stays balanced and easy to mix. The jam adds a soft fruit sweetness that blends smoothly with the citrus and bitters. I like how it feels slightly richer while still finishing clean. It’s a great choice for evenings when you want something simple, a little creative, and easy to enjoy.
Strawberry Jam Paper Plane
Ingredients
Method
- Add strawberry jam and lemon juice to a shaker and stir (or give a short dry shake) to loosen the jam.
- Add bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, bitters, and ice.
- Shake hard until well chilled (about 10–15 seconds).
- Double strain into a chilled coupe or over a large ice cube in a rocks glass.
- Garnish with a slit strawberry on the rim.
Sweetheart Sangria
Red wine cocktails always feel a little more personal, especially when they are built with intention. Sweetheart Sangria is one of those drinks that feels relaxed but still well thought out, making it perfect for slow evenings or small gatherings. From the first pour, it sets a warm tone without feeling heavy or overdone.
What really makes this cocktail stand out for me is the use of Crystal Head Onyx Vodka. It adds a smooth, clean base that lets the wine and bitters shine instead of competing with them. Combined with Aperol, Amaro Montenegro, and Lambrusco, the result is balanced, lightly bitter, and easy to sip. Every ingredient has a purpose, and you can taste that in each glass.
Sweetheart Sangria
Ingredients
Method
- Fill a wine glass with ice.
- Add Crystal Head Onyx, Aperol, Amaro Montenegro, and lemon juice.
- Pour in the Lambrusco red wine.
- Stir gently for a few seconds to chill and combine.
- Garnish with frozen cranberries, an orange slice, and a cinnamon stick.
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.
Golden Bourbon Finch
Ingredients
Method
- Add bourbon, amaro, pineapple juice, lime juice, and simple syrup to a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake firmly for about 10–15 seconds until the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Finish with a lime wedge garnish.
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.
Bitter Citrus Spritz
Ingredients
Method
- Fill a large wine glass with ice.
- Pour in the amaro, followed by the prosecco and soda water.
- Stir briefly to mix without losing carbonation.
- Garnish with a mint sprig and a twist of lemon.
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.
Averna Limonata
Ingredients
Method
- Fill a Collins glass with ice.
- Pour in the Averna and lemon soda.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel and a fresh sage leaf.
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.
King’s Cobbler
Ingredients
Method
- Crush one half of a ripe strawberry in a cocktail shaker.
- Add the amaro, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake briefly but vigorously to aerate.
- Double-strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and strawberry.
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.
Bitter Lemon Spritz
Ingredients
Method
- Add lemon juice and amaro to a wine glass.
- Fill the glass with ice and stir gently.
- Top with lager and give it a light stir to combine.
- Garnish with a lemon peel.
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.
Barrymore
Ingredients
Method
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add Scotch, peated whisky, amaro, and green Chartreuse.
- Stir until well-chilled, about 20–30 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Express an orange twist over the glass, then use it as garnish.
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.
Improved Manhattan
Ingredients
Method
- Add rye, sweet vermouth, Zucca Amaro, and both bitters to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir until well chilled, about 20–30 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled rocks glass or coupe glass.
- Garnish with a cocktail cherry.
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.
Mezcal Cafe
Ingredients
Method
- Mix the Base: In a cocktail shaker, combine mezcal, Meletti Amaro, demerara syrup, and mole bitters.
- Shake: Add ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Prepare the Glass: Place a large ice cube in a rocks glass.
- Strain: Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass over the ice.
- Float the Cold Brew: Slowly pour the cold brew over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect.
- Serve: Let the flavors meld together naturally, then sip and enjoy.
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.
Montenegro Breeze
Ingredients
Method
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the lemon juice, simple syrup, light rum, crème de cassis, Amaro Montenegro, and egg white.
- Shake the mixture vigorously without ice to emulsify the egg white, creating a smooth and frothy texture.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake until the mixture is well chilled.
- Double strain the mixture using a fine mesh strainer into a rocks glass over a large ice cube, ensuring a smooth and velvety finish.
- To enhance the rosemary’s aroma, gently fluff the sprig by rubbing it between your fingers, then place it atop the foam as a fragrant garnish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Montenegro Breeze cocktail!
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.
Bubbly Paper Plane
Ingredients
Method
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the Michter’s Whiskey, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a coupe glass.
- Gently top the cocktail with Prosecco.
- Garnish with a paper plane for a playful touch (optional).
- Enjoy your Bubbly Paper Plane!
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.
Full Monte
Ingredients
Method
- Add all liquid ingredients to a mixing glass over cracked ice. Stir until visibly chilled or dilution is apparent.
- Single strain into a rocks glass over ice.
- Express the oil from the orange peel over the glass and line the rim, then discard.
- Skewer your cherry of choice and use it as a garnish.
- Enjoy!
Paper Plane
The Paper Plane
Ingredients
Method
- Add the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice into your cocktail shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice, seal it tight, and shake it well for about 10 seconds. You're mixing and chilling the drink to perfection.
- Strain the mixture into your coupe glass. This gets rid of the ice, leaving you with just the smooth cocktail.
- Enjoy your Paper Plane right away for the best taste.
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.
