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Spirit Trend: Rebirth Of Amaro

With the low alcohol cocktail trend in full swing and the never ending desire of bartenders to create complexity in unique drinks, Amaro is having a moment. Amaro technically refers to a group of Italian bitter liqueurs, literally translating as ‘bitter.’ More commonly, however, it refers to any and all bitter liqueurs, regardless of country of origin. Amaros have an alcohol content ranging from 16% abv to 40% abv and get their flavor from a, usually secret, combination of herbs, botanicals and roots. Like many delicious potables, amaros have a medicinal history, enjoyed for their curative properties before being appreciated for the complexity of flavor they offer.


There are different classifications of amaro which help to identify the general flavor and/or ingredients used. Some of the most popular varieties include fernet, which is a particularly dry and bitter style sometimes with a hint of menthol; carciofo which is made with artichokes; and rabarbaro which is made with rhubarb, such as the Italian Zucca. Flavors throughout the different styles range from super dry and astringently bitter to sweet and syrupy, and everything in between.


Like most other liqueurs, amaro has been primarily used in cocktail recipes in small quantities to add depth of character, and help bartenders put their own unique spin on drinks. Another popular way to drink some styles of amaro is as a small shot to settle the stomach after a large meal. The newest trend that is being embraced is drinking amaro on its own over ice or with a splash of soda as a light refreshing beverage. Adding a twist of citrus or a splash of juice makes it an amaro forward cocktail, which are popping up in magazine reviews and bar menus all over the world. While this may have been popular within the small zones of Italy where amaro has long standing traditions, this style of drinking is just starting to take hold across the United States and other parts of Europe. And why not, amaro has a lot going for it. Concentrated flavor, a secondary function of calming the stomach and stimulating appetite, all while offering a low alcohol tall drink is a recipe for staying power among new and experienced drinkers.

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