Abbott and Costello the famous comedy duo back in the 50’s had a famous bit called “Who’s on First.” This bit they couldn’t decipher who was on first, second, third, players positions and back to first.
When it comes to Amaro asking an Italian is similar to this particular Abbott and Costello bit. One will tell you Aperitivo Bitter such as Campari, Cappelletti, Cocchi Americano are not considered Amaro. Some will argue that Amaro Based Vermouth isn’t Amaro. Amaro is only dark and bitter and sipped after dinner.
Dad what does Amaro mean to you, “A bitter digestive.”
-Gaetano Palmeri
Livio what does Amaro mean to you, “It has to be dark and bitter.”
– Livio Lauro, Southern Glazers Wine and Spirits Nevada and Former National President of National Bartenders Guild
I asked Niko my Millenial cousin in Sicily what his thoughts are on Amaro, “Amaro is a retro Bitter that you have after a good meal”
-Niko Palmeri
To me, Amaro can be Aperitivo, Vermouth, and dark and bitter. The resurgence of Amaro especially in American back bars is creating a buzz that not only can they be drunken by themselves but with other liqueurs.
