As a bartender, I’ve had the pleasure of experimenting with an array of spirits, but few have captured my attention like Amari, Italy’s beloved bitter liqueurs. These often-overlooked concoctions are a staple in any well-stocked bar, and for good reason: they bring a depth and complexity to cocktails that’s hard to find elsewhere. When it comes to mixology, Amari are the unsung heroes – capable of adding a touch of sweetness, bitterness, or both to drinks, depending on the specific recipe.
From the citrusy zing of Aperol to the mysterious allure of Fernet Branca, each Amaro has its own unique flavor profile, shaped by the blend of herbs, roots, and spices used in its production. In this post, I’ll be sharing some of my favorite Amari-based cocktails, perfected over years of experimentation and refinement.
Whether you’re looking for something refreshing and light or rich and complex, there’s an Amari cocktail waiting to be discovered – and I’m excited to share these recipes with you.
Fernet Sour Cocktail
The Fernet Sour is a masterclass in balance and complexity, marrying the Italian bitter Fernet-Branca with the herbal liqueur Chartreuse and a squeeze of lime juice. This Amari cocktail defies categorization, oscillating between sweet, sour, bitter, and refreshing notes that will leave you wanting more. As a sophisticated showstopper, it’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a unique drinking experience.
For the adventurous home bartender seeking to elevate their skills, the Fernet Sour is an excellent excuse to acquire both Chartreuse and Fernet-Branca, allowing you to explore this iconic liqueur’s versatility in various cocktails.
Paloma Aperol Spritz
Indulge in the vibrant Paloma Aperol Spritz, a harmonious blend of sweet and bitter notes that’s sure to quench your thirst on any summer occasion. The drink’s signature flavor stems from the distinctive aperitif, Aperol, which adds an intriguing depth to the mix. As you sip, the tangy zip from grapefruit soda and lime juice will awaken your palate, while the prosecco finish leaves a delightful effervescence.
This refreshing concoction is a must-try for those seeking a symphony of flavors and a new summer staple. Take a sip and let the flavors speak for themselves – you won’t be disappointed!
Aperol Tequila Twist
The Aperol Tequila Twist is a bold and revitalizing concoction that harmoniously unites tequila with Aperol, grapefruit juice, orange juice, orange bitters, and maple syrup. This lingering yet tangy drink boasts subtle undertones of sweet maple and a hint of Aperol’s bitterness, making it an excellent choice for any time of year. The zesty citrus flavors from the grapefruit and orange juices infuse it with a refreshing quality, particularly during the sweltering summer months.
Moreover, the drink’s vibrant color palette makes it visually captivating. For those seeking to venture out of their comfort zone and indulge in something new and delectable, the Aperol Tequila Twist is an excellent choice.
Tropical Aperol Bourbon Cocktail
Indulge in the tropical getaway that awaits with every sip of the Tropical Aperol Bourbon Cocktail. This revitalizing drink perfectly blends the smoothness of bourbon with the tangy sweetness of pineapple juice and fresh lemon juice, while the bold flavor of Aperol adds a delightful complexity. Served ice-cold and garnished with mint, this cocktail is a masterclass in balance, offering a sweet and tangy taste experience punctuated by just the right hint of bitterness.
Perfect for those who crave an Amari Cocktail that’s both unique and alluring, the Tropical Aperol Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try for anyone seeking a refreshing escape from the ordinary.
Aperol and Elderflower Margarita
Sipping on an Aperol and Elderflower Margarita is like embracing the vibrant essence of spring and summer. This citrusy cocktail, crafted with Corralejo Reposado tequila, Aperol, elderflower liqueur, and lime juice, offers a masterful balance between bitter and sweet notes. The addition of sumac to the salted rim injects a tangy nuance that harmonizes beautifully with the subtle rhubarb undertones in Aperol.
For those seeking a non-traditional margarita experience, this refreshing drink is an excellent choice. Its bright flavors are sure to captivate any gathering’s palate.
Campari Margarita
When it comes to the classic margarita, there’s always room for innovation. Enter the Campari Margarita, a bold and intriguing variation that seamlessly integrates the iconic Italian apertif, Campari. For those with a lingering bottle of Campari collecting dust at home, this recipe offers an inspired way to repurpose it.
While some may find Campari’s distinctive flavor an acquired taste, its unexpected harmonies with tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and agave syrup or simple syrup create a truly unique drinking experience. The Campari Margarita is an adventurous choice for those eager to shake things up in the world of cocktails.
Bitter Giuseppe
The Bitter Giuseppe cocktail offers a masterclass in balance, with its complex interplay of bitter and sweet notes. At its core lies Italian amaro Cynar, which provides a rich foundation for the drink’s low-alcohol profile. The addition of sweet vermouth, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a few dashes of orange bitters cleverly temper the Cynar’s natural bitterness, yielding a well-rounded and intriguing flavor experience.
This cocktail has its roots at The Violet Hour in Chicago, where it’s perfectly suited as an aperitif or for savoring over leisurely moments. If you appreciate bold, bitter flavors, the Bitter Giuseppe is a must-try.
I’m Brandon, the face behind the recipes. As a dedicated food enthusiast, I love experimenting with flavors and sharing my culinary adventures with you.