What is Amaretto?

You've probably heard of and even had Disaronno, but what is it? Essentially, it is a brand of Amaretto, the sweet Italian drink that is part of the Liqueur category of drinks, and is generally associated most with almonds. However, it can also be made from apricot kernels and peach stones, although these do have a compound that creates this almond flavour too.

In Italian, the word amaro means "bitter", and so amaretto means "a little bitter", referencing the bitter almond that is used to balance the sweetness.

How to drink Amaretto

This is one of the most versatile liqueurs out there. It can be drunk neat or on the rocks for a dessert booster or as an aperitif. It is also popularly mixed into coffee or hot chocolate as a flavour enhancer. Amongst younger drinkers, it's a classic with Coke and other soft drinks too.

Then of course you have the cocktails. An Amaretto Sour is probably the most famous, a blend of Amaretto and lemon juice that mixes sweet and sour perfectly. The Godfather is another classic that melds the flavours of Scotch with the sweet Amaretto hit.