As the warmth of summer settles in, there’s nothing quite like sipping a refreshing cocktail that captures the essence of the season. The perfect blend of flavors and a hint of bitterness can make all the difference. This is where Amaro cocktails come in – a world of complex flavors and aromas waiting to be explored.
Amaro, which translates to ‘bitter’ in Italian, is a type of liqueur that’s made from a unique blend of herbs, roots, and spices.
Its flavor profile can range from sweet and spicy to bitter and earthy, making it the perfect canvas for creativity in mixology.
With so many Amaro cocktail recipes out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you. We’ve scoured the internet, consulted with bartenders, and tested countless recipes to bring you the best of the best.
Whether you’re looking for a fruity and refreshing drink or something bold and boozy, our selection has got you covered. From classic cocktails that never go out of style to modern twists on old favorites, we’ve got the perfect recipe for your next summer gathering.
So why not grab your shaker and favorite Amaro, and let’s get started? With these recipes, you’ll be well on your way to creating some truly unforgettable summer cocktails that are sure to impress.
Italian Amaro Cocktail
Indulge in the bold flavors of Italy with the Italian Amaro Cocktail, a revitalizing concoction that’s perfect for sizzling summer days. The harmonious blend of Averna Amaro, gin, lime juice, sugar, mint, and ginger beer yields a bittersweet finish that’s delightfully offset by the effervescence of the ginger beer. Averna Amaro, a time-honored Italian digestif, infuses the drink with its nuanced herbal notes, creating a complex yet approachable taste experience.
With no need for exotic ingredients or special syrups, this cocktail is surprisingly easy to craft. If you’re seeking a novel and invigorating drink to punctuate your summer moments, look no further than the Italian Amaro Cocktail – a true gem that’s sure to please.
Averna Limonata
Sip on the sun with Averna Limonata, a revitalizing low-abv cocktail that’s as easy to create as it is to enjoy. This summer savior combines just two ingredients: the complex bitter-weet elixir of Averna Amaro and high-quality lemon soda. The result is a sweetly nuanced drink that boasts a bold, cola-like flavor profile. Averna Amaro itself is a masterful blend of wine or brandy steeped with roots, barks, herbs, flowers, and citrus peels, offering a unique depth to the cocktail.
This refreshing concoction pairs perfectly with rum- and whiskey-based cocktails, making it an excellent choice for those looking to indulge without getting too carried away. If you’re on the hunt for a revitalizing summer sipper that’s as effortless to prepare as it is to savor, Averna Limonata is undoubtedly worth giving a try.
Amaro Spritz
The Amaro Spritz is a revitalizing drink that embodies the essence of summer. By substituting Aperol with any type of amaro, this Italian-inspired cocktail presents a rich, caramely taste profile, punctuated by intricate flavor harmonies. Meletti’s dark brown, sweet notes and cola-like undertones are particularly well-suited for this recipe, as they add depth to the drink without overpowering its refreshing essence.
Following the classic 3-2-1 spritz ratio allows for a seamless blend of flavors, while also providing room for experimentation and creativity. For added visual appeal, clear ice can be used to elevate the cocktail’s presentation. Overall, the Amaro Spritz is an absolute must-try for those seeking a unique and invigorating drink experience.
Mezcal Sour
In the midst of sweltering summer days, the Mezcal Sour offers a refreshing respite from the heat. This complex concoction harmoniously blends the smoky undertones of mezcal with the subtle bitterness and earthy notes of Amaro. The result is a cocktail that defies traditional sweet and sour expectations, instead offering a nuanced and intriguing drinking experience.
The artful combination of shaking techniques yields a velvety foam that crowns the drink, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. For those seeking a refreshing yet thought-provoking sipper, the Mezcal Sour is an excellent choice.
The Italian American
This innovative cocktail, ‘The Italian American’, combines the rich flavors of American bourbon with the subtle nuances of Amaro Montenegro and Campari. The harmonious blend is further enhanced by the addition of maple syrup and lemon juice, resulting in a complex libation that showcases floral notes, herbs, spice, and citrus.
This drink is not only a testament to the versatility of Amaro Montenegro but also an excellent example of how it can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a key component in a refreshing summer cocktail.
Aperol Margarita
In the world of cocktails, there’s nothing quite like the Aperol Margarita – a vibrant and tantalizing blend of flavors that will transport you to a tropical paradise. This delightful concoction draws inspiration from the Dead Man’s Handle at Miss Carousel in Houston, where its unique color and subtle almond notes evoke a sense of tiki flair.
At the heart of this refreshing drink is Aperol, an Italian apéritif renowned for its bold orange and rhubarb flavors, which lend a sweet and tangy quality to the mix. The addition of almond simple syrup adds a clever twist to the classic Margarita recipe, making this cocktail a must-try for anyone seeking a new summer sensation.
Fernet Branca Spritz
This Fernet Branca Spritz recipe embodies the essence of summer with its perfect balance of refreshing and bitter flavors. The star of the show is Fernet Branca, a herbal liqueur renowned for its digestive properties. When combined with fresh orange juice, simple syrup, and prosecco, this cocktail takes on a unique character that’s ideal for those who prefer their drinks with less sweetness.
With its bold and complex flavor profile, the Fernet Branca Spritz is sure to impress even the most refined palates. As you search for something new and exciting to try this summer, look no further than this distinctive cocktail. Its ability to intrigue and delight makes it a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious and revitalizing drink.
Perfect Aperol Spritz
The Perfect Aperol Spritz is an Italian classic that has captured hearts around the world with its unique blend of flavors and refreshing vibe. As the sun begins to set on a hot summer evening, there’s no better way to unwind than sipping on this delightful cocktail. The 3-2-1 ratio of Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water creates a harmonious balance of sweet and tangy notes that will leave you wanting more.
To top it all off, a slice of orange adds a pop of color and a touch of citrus zest to the glass. But what truly sets this cocktail apart is its main ingredient, Aperol – a vibrant orange elixir with hints of herbs and citrus that perfectly complements the Prosecco’s crisp effervescence. Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated pre-dinner drink or just a cool way to beat the heat on a summer day, the Perfect Aperol Spritz is an absolute must-try.
Oleo Old Fashioned
The Oleo Old Fashioned is an innovative reinterpretation of the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, featuring a homemade oleo saccharum syrup as its crowning glory. This syrup, crafted from citrus zest and sugar, infuses the drink with an intense sweet and bitter orange flavor that’s simply irresistible. To further elevate this refreshing concoction, we add Amaro Nonino, a rich and complex bitter orange liqueur, as well as Michter’s barrel strength rye as the base spirit.
The addition of apple bitters at the end serves to brighten up the palate and nose, expertly balancing the flavors. The result is a one-of-a-kind summer cocktail that will surely wow your guests with its unique blend of citrusy sweetness and complex depth.
Paper Plane Cocktail
The Paper Plane Cocktail has become a modern classic in the world of mixology, thanks to its creator, New York bartender Sam Ross. This perfectly balanced concoction combines the warm flavors of bourbon with the subtle sweetness and bitterness of Amaro Nonino, Aperol, and fresh lemon juice. The result is a refreshing summer drink that’s both complex and well-balanced.
What sets this cocktail apart is the unique contribution of Amaro Nonino, which, with its lighter color and profile, brings an essential depth to the Paper Plane. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or just looking for a new summer sipper, the Paper Plane is a must-try.
Bicicletta Cocktail
The Bicicletta Cocktail is a revitalizing summer libation that harmoniously blends Campari’s distinctive bitterness with the crisp sweetness of white wine and the effervescence of soda water. A slice of orange adds a pop of color to this refreshing drink, making it an ideal choice for warm weather.
While the Campari provides a bold foundation, the white wine subtly counterbalances its bitter notes, resulting in a delightful equilibrium that will satisfy your taste buds on a sweltering summer day or evening.
Cynar Spritz
For those seeking a revitalizing twist on traditional summer cocktails, look no further than the Cynar Spritz. This Italian-inspired elixir boasts the distinctive bitter notes of Cynar, adding an intriguing layer of complexity to the classic spritz formula. With its lively effervescence and harmonious balance of sweet and bitter flavors, the Cynar Spritz is poised to delight both seasoned mixology enthusiasts and those simply seeking a refreshing drink to savor on a sun-kissed afternoon.
As the perfect fusion of familiar and innovative elements, this captivating cocktail is sure to win over even the most discerning palates.
Aperol Sour With Maple Syrup and Rosemary
Indulge in the Aperol Sour with Maple Syrup and Rosemary, a sublime gin-based cocktail that harmoniously balances tartness, bitterness, and sweetness. The subtle nuances of maple syrup and rosemary’s herbaceous aroma elevate this drink to new heights of complexity, while its bold color is sure to pique your curiosity. Each sip yields a symphony of sweet and sour fruitiness, punctuated by a hint of alcohol.
What sets this cocktail apart is its accessibility – it requires only a handful of ingredients, making the recipe effortlessly replicable. If you’re seeking a refreshing and sophisticated summer drink that’s equal parts easy to make and impressive to serve, add the Aperol Sour with Maple Syrup and Rosemary to your must-try list.
Rum Negroni
A refreshing spin on the classic Italian lounge cocktail, the Rum Negroni is a delightful twist on the traditional formula. By swapping out gin for dark rum, this variation yields a smoother, less bitter taste profile that’s perfect for those who prefer a milder flavor experience. Although the original Negroni can be an acquired taste due to its robust nature, the Rum Negroni offers a more approachable alternative that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
With just three ingredients required, this cocktail is simplicity itself, making it an ideal choice for summer soirees and impromptu gatherings alike.
Paper Plane
The Paper Plane cocktail is a hidden gem among summer drinks, offering a delightful combination of flavors that will leave your guests impressed. This refreshing concoction was created by Sam Ross in 2007 and has since gained popularity among mixology enthusiasts for its simplicity, harmony, and ability to be enjoyed in moderation.
While it may draw some inspiration from the classic pre-prohibition cocktail ‘The Last Word,’ the two share only one common thread – the use of citrus and equal parts of ingredients. In reality, the Paper Plane is a singularly unique and revitalizing drink that’s perfect for sipping on a sweltering summer day. Give it a try and discover why it’s become a favorite among those seeking a top-notch summer Amaro cocktail.
