A Pour That Knows It’s the Star of the Show
If amaro and whiskey were people, they’d be that cool, slightly mysterious couple everyone wants to hang out with. Amaro, with its herbal, bittersweet charm, and whiskey, with its warm, bold swagger, make for a surprisingly dynamic duo. Whether you’re a cocktail newbie or a seasoned shaker-slinger, pairing these two opens up a whole world of delicious possibilities.
First, What’s Amaro Anyway?
Amaro (that’s “ah-MAH-roh,” for anyone nervous about butchering it at the bar) is Italy’s gift to the world of booze. It’s a bittersweet liqueur made from a secret blend of herbs, roots, and spices. Each bottle tells its own story—some are citrusy and bright, others dark and brooding, like they’ve been pondering life’s mysteries in an old oak barrel.
From light and floral to spicy and bold, there’s an amaro for every mood. It plays just as well in a cocktail as it does sipped solo after dinner.
Why Whiskey?
Whiskey brings the depth. Whether it’s bourbon with its caramel notes, rye with its spicy kick, or a smoky Scotch, whiskey adds a rich, warming backbone to cocktails. When you pair it with amaro, you’re blending boldness with complexity—a little sweet, a little bitter, and a whole lot of interesting.
Ready to stir things up? Start with these easy combos:
1. The Bitter Old Fashioned
- 50ml Whiskey or Bourbon
- 25ml Three Foxes Espresso Amaro
- 1 sugar cube
Muddle the sugar with bourbon and amaro, stir with ice, and garnish with an orange twist. It’s the Old Fashioned you know and love, but with a hint of dark chocolate earth intrigue.
2. The Black Manhattan
- 45ml Rye Whiskey
- 15ml Three Foxes Espresso Amaro
- 25ml Sweet Vermouth
- 2 dashes orange bitters
Stir everything with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with a cherry. It’s smooth, dark, and oh-so-sophisticated..
What’s the Perfect Pairing?
These cocktails love bold flavours. Serve them with charcuterie (think salty prosciutto and funky blue cheese) or dark chocolate for a decadent treat. The bitter-sweetness of amaro cuts through rich flavours, while the whiskey’s warmth ties everything together.
So grab your favourite amaro, a solid bottle of whiskey, and start experimenting. You might just find your new signature drink. Cheers!