When it comes to bitter alcohol, one type that immediately comes to mind is Amaro. The word “amaro” in Italian literally means “bitter,” so it's no surprise that these herbal liqueurs have a distinctive bitter taste. Amaro is a family of Italian liqueurs made by infusing a variety of herbs, roots, and botanicals in alcohol, resulting in a complex and bitter flavor profile.
One well-known example of Amaro is Campari. Campari is made from a secret blend of herbs and fruits, and its bright red color is instantly recognizable. It has a bitter, yet refreshing taste that is often enjoyed in cocktails like the Negroni or the classic Campari and soda. The bitterness of Campari comes from a combination of ingredients, including the bark of the chincona tree and bitter orange peel.
Another popular Amaro is Fernet-Branca. Fernet-Branca is a dark, aromatic liqueur with a strong bitter taste. It is made from a secret recipe that includes over 40 different herbs and spices. Fernet-Branca has a distinctive menthol-like flavor and is often consumed as a digestif or used in cocktails like the Fernet and Coke.
While Campari and Fernet-Branca are perhaps the most well-known examples of Amaro, there are countless other varieties available. Each Amaro has its own unique blend of herbs and botanicals, resulting in a wide range of flavors and levels of bitterness.
One of my personal favorite Amaro is Averna. Averna is a Sicilian liqueur that has a rich, velvety texture and a slightly sweeter taste compared to other Amaro. It still retains a noticeable bitterness, but it is balanced by notes of citrus and caramel. I enjoy sipping Averna neat or using it in cocktails like the Black Manhattan.
Another Amaro that I find intriguing is Cynar. Cynar is made from artichokes and a blend of botanicals, giving it a distinct vegetal flavor. It has a medium level of bitterness and can be enjoyed on its own or used as an ingredient in cocktails like the Cynar Spritz.
In addition to these specific brands, there are numerous regional and artisanal Amaro produced throughout Italy. Each one has its own story and unique flavor profile, making the exploration of Amaro a fascinating journey.
To summarize, when it comes to bitter alcohol, Amaro is a category that encompasses a wide range of liqueurs with distinctive bitter flavors. Campari and Fernet-Branca are well-known examples, but there are countless other varieties to explore. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, Amaro offers a complex and bitter taste experience that is loved by many.