Summer is a season of warmth, bright colors, and endless possibilities. It's a time to unwind, relax, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
And what better way to do that than with a refreshing drink in hand? But not just any drink. We're talking about the perfect summer cocktail – one that's light, refreshing, and packed with flavor.
Enter the world of Amaro cocktails. Amaro, which means "bitter" in Italian, is a type of liqueur that's made from a blend of herbs, roots, and spices.
It's known for its complex flavor profile, which can range from sweet and spicy to bitter and earthy. And when mixed with the right ingredients, it can create the perfect summer cocktail.
But with so many Amaro cocktail recipes out there, how do you know which ones to try? That's where we come in.
We've scoured the internet, talked to bartenders, and tested countless recipes to bring you the best of the best. Whether you're looking for something fruity and refreshing or bold and boozy, we've got you covered.
So, grab your shaker, your favorite Amaro, and get ready to mix up some of the best summer cocktails you've ever tasted.
From classic Negronis to modern twists on old favorites, these Amaro cocktails are sure to be the hit of your next summer party or lazy afternoon by the pool. So, let's get started!
1. Italian Amaro Cocktail
The Italian Amaro Cocktail is a refreshing and complex drink that's perfect for a summer day. Made with Averna Amaro, gin, lime juice, sugar, and mint, this cocktail has a bittersweet finish that's balanced out by the fizzy ginger beer.
Averna Amaro, a classic Italian digestif, adds depth to the drink with its herbal-based ingredients. This cocktail is easy to make and doesn't require any special syrups or hard-to-find ingredients. If you're looking for a unique and refreshing drink to enjoy this summer, the Italian Amaro Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
2. Averna Limonata
Averna Limonata is a refreshing and easy-to-make low-abv cocktail that's perfect for summer days. Made with just two ingredients – Averna Amaro and a high-quality lemon soda – this cocktail is sweet, nuanced, and has a bold cola-like flavor. Averna Amaro is a bitter-sweet elixir made with a base of wine or brandy that steeps with bitter roots, barks, herbs, flowers, and citrus peels.
It's a great addition to rum and whiskey-based cocktails, and Averna Limonata is no exception. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to enjoy a few drinks without getting too tipsy. If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make summer cocktail, Averna Limonata is definitely worth a try.
3. Amaro Spritz
The Amaro Spritz is a refreshing and bubbly cocktail that's perfect for summer occasions. This Italian aperitif uses any type of amaro in place of the Aperol, resulting in a rich and caramely taste with complex and balanced flavors. Meletti, a dark brown, sweet amaro, is recommended for this recipe as it shines through with its caramel notes and almost cola-like taste.
The classic spritz ratio of 3-2-1 is used to create this cocktail, making it easy to remember and allowing for endless variations. For those looking to take their Amaro Spritz to the next level, clear ice can be used to elevate the drink's appearance. Overall, the Amaro Spritz is a must-try cocktail for those who enjoy a refreshing and unique drink.
4. Mezcal Sour
The Mezcal Sour is a unique and complex cocktail that is perfect for summer sipping. Made with mezcal, a smoky liquor that adds a depth of flavor, and Amaro, an Italian liqueur with a slight bitterness and earthy taste, this cocktail is not your typical sweet and sour drink.
The two-step shaking process creates a frothy foam that sits atop the cocktail, making it visually appealing as well. If you're looking for a cocktail that is both refreshing and interesting, the Mezcal Sour is definitely worth a try.
5. The Italian American
"The Italian American" is a delicious blend of American bourbon, Amaro Montenegro, and Campari. The addition of maple syrup and lemon juice creates a smooth and slightly bitter libation with floral notes, herbs, spice, and citrus.
It's a great example of an Amaro Montenegro drink that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. If you're looking for a refreshing and sophisticated summer cocktail, "The Italian American" is definitely worth a try.
6. Aperol Margarita
The Aperol Margarita is a refreshing and fun cocktail that combines the beloved flavors of Aperol and Margarita. Inspired by the Dead Man's Handle from Miss Carousel in Houston, this cocktail has a tiki flare with its stunning color and mild almond flavor.
Aperol, an Italian apéritif with notes of orange and rhubarb, is the star of the show, giving the cocktail a slightly sweet and slightly bitter taste. The almond simple syrup adds a delicious twist to the classic Margarita recipe. If you're looking for a new and exciting summer cocktail, the Aperol Margarita is definitely worth a try.
7. Fernet Branca Spritz
The Fernet Branca Spritz is a refreshing and bitter cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This cocktail is made with Fernet Branca, a bitter herbal liqueur that is known for its digestive properties. Mixed with fresh orange juice, simple syrup, and prosecco, this cocktail is perfect for those who prefer their drinks less sweet.
The Fernet Branca Spritz is a great option for those looking to try something new and unique this summer. With its bold and complex flavors, this cocktail is sure to impress even the most discerning of drinkers. So, if you're looking for a delicious and refreshing summer cocktail, be sure to give the Fernet Branca Spritz a try.
8. Perfect Aperol Spritz
The Perfect Aperol Spritz is a classic Italian cocktail with a modern twist that is perfect for sipping as a pre-dinner drink during hot summer evenings. The cocktail has a 3-2-1 ratio of Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water, and is garnished with a slice of orange.
Aperol, the main ingredient in the cocktail, has a bright orange color and a lightly sweet, bitter, and balanced flavor with notes of herbs and citrus. If you're looking for a refreshing and delicious summer cocktail, the Perfect Aperol Spritz is a must-try!
9. Oleo Old Fashioned
The Oleo Old Fashioned is a refreshing and citrusy twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. Made with a homemade oleo saccharum syrup, which is a sugar oil made from citrus zest and sugar, this cocktail packs a punch of intense sweet and bitter orange flavor.
The addition of Amaro Nonino, a bitter orange liqueur, and Michter's barrel strength rye as the base spirit, adds depth and complexity to the drink. The cocktail is finished off with a couple of dashes of apple bitters, which brighten up the flavors on the palate and the nose. Overall, the Oleo Old Fashioned is a perfect summer cocktail that is sure to impress your guests with its unique and refreshing flavors.
10. Paper Plane Cocktail
The Paper Plane Cocktail is a modern classic that has taken the cocktail world by storm. Created by New York bartender Sam Ross, this cocktail is a perfect balance of bourbon, Amaro Nonino, Aperol, and fresh lemon juice. The cocktail has a pronounced bitterness and subtle sweetness from both the amaro and Aperol, making it a refreshing and well-balanced drink for summer.
The Amaro Nonino used in this cocktail is lighter in color and profile compared to darker amaros, making it a unique and essential ingredient for the perfect Paper Plane. If you're looking for a cocktail that's both refreshing and complex, the Paper Plane is a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast.
11. Bicicletta Cocktail
The Bicicletta Cocktail is a refreshing and light summer drink that is perfect for those who love bitter flavors. This cocktail is made with Campari, white wine, and soda water, and is garnished with a slice of orange.
The bitter notes of the Campari are balanced out by the sweetness of the white wine, making it a perfect drink for a hot summer day.
If you're looking for a unique and flavorful summer cocktail, the Bicicletta Cocktail is definitely worth a try. Its light and refreshing taste makes it a perfect drink to enjoy on a warm summer evening.
So, if you're a fan of bitter flavors, give this cocktail a try and experience the perfect balance of sweet and bitter.
12. Cynar Spritz
Looking for a refreshing and unique summer cocktail? Look no further than the Cynar Spritz! This Italian-inspired drink features Cynar, a bitter liqueur that adds complexity to the classic spritz recipe. With its bubbly and bittersweet flavor, the Cynar Spritz is the perfect drink for those looking to try something new.
Whether you're a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a fun and flavorful drink to enjoy on a hot summer day, the Cynar Spritz is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and discover your new favorite summer drink?
13. Aperol Sour With Maple Syrup and Rosemary
The Aperol Sour with Maple Syrup and Rosemary is a must-try cocktail for any fan of gin sour cocktails. This drink is a perfect blend of tartness, bitterness, and sweetness, with the mellow undertones of maple syrup and the herbaceous aroma of rosemary adding to its complexity.
The bold color of the cocktail is sure to catch your eye, and each sip delivers a bold mix of sweet and sour fruitiness alongside a little punch of alcohol. What makes this cocktail special is its simplicity – it requires only a few ingredients, and the recipe is easy to follow. If you're looking for a refreshing and sophisticated summer cocktail, the Aperol Sour with Maple Syrup and Rosemary should definitely be on your list.
14. Rum Negroni
The Rum Negroni is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian lounge cocktail. This version replaces gin with dark rum, resulting in a less bitter taste. While the Negroni can be an acquired taste due to its strength, this variation is perfect for those who prefer a milder flavor.
The cocktail is easy to make with just three ingredients, making it ideal for summer parties. If you're a fan of the Negroni, this is a must-try variation that's sure to impress.
15. Paper Plane
The Paper Plane cocktail is a lesser-known but truly fantastic summer Amaro cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. This cocktail is made with equal parts of Aperol, bourbon, Amaro, and fresh squeezed lemon juice. It was invented by bartender Sam Ross in 2007 and has become a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts for its simplicity, balance, and sessionability.
While it is said to be a modern take on the pre-prohibition cocktail "The Last Word," the only similarity between the two is the use of citrus and equal parts of ingredients. The Paper Plane is a unique and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. Give it a try and discover why it's one of the best summer Amaro cocktails out there.
