Amaro is a type of Italian herbal liqueur renowned for its complex flavours and often bittersweet profile. The name “amaro” translates to “bitter” in Italian, which is a fitting descriptor for this diverse and intriguing spirit. Typically enjoyed as a digestif after a meal, Amaro is celebrated for its ability to aid digestion, though its use has evolved into a broader spectrum of cocktails and culinary applications.
I had a chance to sample a flight of five different Amaro liqueurs, showing me the wide variability there is in its production. Before I go into my tasting notes, I have some background information about Amaro to familiarize you with this liqueur.
Origins and History
Amaro’s roots trace back to ancient times, with early herbal remedies and medicinal concoctions laying the groundwork for modern iterations. The tradition of crafting herbal liqueurs took on a more defined shape in Italy during the Renaissance when monks and herbalists began refining their recipes. The modern concept of Amaro began to solidify in the 19th century when commercial production started. Companies like Fernet-Branca and Campari established themselves, each bringing their unique twist to the category.
Ingredients and Variability
Amaro is made by infusing a base spirit with a blend of herbs, spices, flowers, and citrus peels. Common ingredients include gentian, rhubarb, wormwood, and orange peel, among many others. Each producer has their own secret blend, resulting in a wide variety of flavours and intensities. The base spirit is often a neutral grain alcohol, though some amari are made with aged spirits like brandy, which adds additional complexity.
The variability of ingredients is one of Amaro’s most intriguing aspects. For example, Amaro Averna from Sicily is known for its rich, sweet, and slightly smoky profile, while Fernet-Branca from Milan is famously bitter and has a more intense, medicinal quality due to its unique mix of herbs and spices. Other brands, like Amaro Montenegro and Amaro Nonino, offer different balances of sweetness and bitterness, influenced by their proprietary blends.
Enjoying Amaro
Amaro can be enjoyed in various ways, each highlighting different aspects of its flavour profile. Traditionally, it is served chilled or at room temperature as a digestif, sipped slowly to savour its intricate layers. Its bittersweet complexity makes it a fantastic pairing with rich or heavy foods, as it can help cleanse the palate.
In cocktails, Amaro can be used to add depth and complexity. Classic cocktails like the Negroni and the Boulevardier benefit from the addition of Amaro, which adds a nuanced layer of flavour that can enhance the overall drink.
My Amaro Tasting Notes
We tasted all five Amaro on ice.
Caffo Vecchio Amaro Del Capo Amaro – It has a thick mouthfeel. Sweet and spicy flavours. Orange peel bitterness. Herbal and minty toward the finish. Long length.
Nonino Quintessentia Amaro – Light lemon aroma. Lighter body with medium sweetness. Citrus, sweet spices, some pepperiness and light herbal flavours. Medium length. Peppery finish.
Amaro Montenegro – Tawny colour. Floral nose. Medium body, off-dry with a soft mouthfeel. Roses and mint on the palate with a minty finish. Tasty!
Branca Menta – Mahogany colour. Pronounced peppermint on the nose and the palate. A very thick, round mouthfeel. Hot. This one really surprised me as it was completely different from the other four Amaro.
Averna Amaro Siciliano – It has a deep mahogany colour. Light sweet orange and sweet spice aromas. Sweet, with medium body. Herbal and molasses on the palate. Medium bodied.
With so many variations for the aromas and flavours of Amaro, it is up to your own personal preference as to which one(s) you like the most. I preferred the Caffo Vecchio Amaro Del Capo Amaro and the Amaro Montenegro.
Where Can I Buy These Amaro?
Caffo Vecchio Amaro Del Capo Amaro, Amaro Montenegro, and Averna Amaro Siciliano are available for purchase through the BC Liquor stores. These three Amaro are also available through Everything Wine stores. Ten different Amaro are available through Marquis Wine Cellars in downtown Vancouver, including Nonino Quintessentia Amaro. I was unable to find a store selling Branca Menta. If you know of one, please let me know in the Comments section.
