Imagining a world where classic cocktails meet the rich flavors of Italy? Look no further! Averna is an Italian bittersweet liqueur that seamlessly blends sweet caramel notes with hints of honey and anise. Its thick, brown texture is a result of infusing roots, citrus, herbs, and botanicals – a true masterpiece of craftsmanship. With 27 distinct spices and herbs at its core, Averna boasts a unique balance of bitter and sweet flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Whether you enjoy it straight or mixed with other drinks, Averna is sure to delight. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to incorporate into your cocktail repertoire. In fact, we’ve curated 17 innovative Averna cocktails for you to try – from classic twists to creative concoctions that will take your drinking experience to new heights. Whether you’re in the mood for something fun and new or a coffee-flavored treat (#11 is not to be missed!), our recipes have got you covered. So why wait?
Dive into the world of Averna and discover the perfect blend of Italian charm and cocktail magic.
The Pura Vida
With its name translating to ‘pure life’ in Spanish, the Pura Vida cocktail is a masterclass in balancing flavors. Averna amaro, mezcal, coffee liqueurs, and orange bitters come together to create a complex taste profile that’s equal parts smoky, sweet, and seductive. The drink’s defining characteristic is its bold, boozy base courtesy of the mezcal, which also lends an enticing aroma.
As you sip it after dinner, the subtle hints of orange and the subtle bitterness of the Averna amaro will leave you wanting more of this indulgent treat.
Black Manhattan
The Black Manhattan is a sophisticated cocktail that has gained widespread recognition. In place of traditional vermouth, this refined drink incorporates Italian amaro, which lends a vital, boozy, and sweet flavor profile with subtle notes of caramel and chocolate. With its elegant charm, it’s an ideal choice for serving at parties or any special occasion.
To elevate the experience even further, consider garnishing the drink with a Luxardo cherry, whose rich flavors beautifully complement the cocktail.
Averna Limonata
Sick of the same old lemonade? Spice things up with Averna Limonata, a refreshingly simple cocktail that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. This two-ingredient stunner combines the effervescence of lemon soda with the subtle complexity of Averna, resulting in a drink that’s equal parts sweet, tart, and nuanced. And the best part? You can indulge guilt-free, sipping on multiple glasses without worrying about getting too tipsy.
It’s the perfect remedy for a hot summer day, and you can whip it up with ease at home.
The Beatnik
In the realm of sophisticated cocktails, The Beatnik stands out as a masterclass in balance and complexity. At its core, this drink relies on Averna’s distinctive herbal undertones, but it’s the harmonious interplay between Averna, bourbon, and tawny port that truly elevates it. With just these three ingredients, you’ll create a cocktail that defies simplicity with its rich, multi-dimensional flavor profile.
The bourbon brings forth a warm, oaky nuance, while the tawny port adds a touch of sweetness to offset its boldness. Meanwhile, Averna’s subtle herbal notes weave together the entire ensemble, making The Beatnik an ideal choice for sipping after a satisfying meal.
The Witty Comeback
The Witty Comeback, a refreshing and complex cocktail, combines the flavors of Averna, ginger syrup, fresh lemon juice, and rye whiskey. Its bold yet balanced taste features a spicy and tangy finish that’s both intriguing and satisfying. While it packs a punch, the drink’s moderate ABV ensures you’ll still be able to converse coherently, making it an ideal choice for evening social gatherings.
Summer Manhattan
Indulge in the refreshing charm of a Summer Manhattan cocktail, where bold bourbon flavors meet effervescent spritz. This unique concoction is at once both robust and revitalizing, making it an ideal companion for any time of day. With just three essential ingredients – bourbon, Averna, and rhubarb bitters – you can effortlessly craft this delightful drink without needing any special equipment.
The Devil’s Soul
Indulge in the devilish concoction that is The Devil’s Soul, a cocktail as complex and intriguing as its name suggests. By combining seemingly disparate ingredients like Avena, mezcal, Aperol, rye, and elderflower in one glass, you’ll create a boozy, smoky, and utterly captivating drink that’s sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Whether you’re serving it up at an afterparty or ordering it from the bar on a night out with friends, The Devil’s Soul is the perfect addition to any celebration.
Winter Waltz
As the mercury drops and snowflakes start to fall, there’s nothing quite like gathering loved ones together for a cozy winter celebration. But what makes it truly magical is having a deliciously warm and spicy cocktail to sip on. Enter Winter Waltz, a rich and inviting drink that’s sure to thaw even the chilliest of winter nights.
Imagine sipping it by the fire, or indulging in a relaxing hot bubble bath with your favorite scented candle lit – it’s the perfect way to unwind and make the most of those long winter evenings.
Spiced Averna Toddy
Indulge in the spiced version of the classic Hot Toddy and discover why Spiced Averna Toddy has won over the hearts of many. This warming concoction combines the rich flavors of black peppercorns and cinnamon to create a drink that’s not only soothing, but also packs a punch. Whether you’re looking for a morning pick-me-up or a cozy companion on a chilly evening, Spiced Averna Toddy is sure to become your new go-to beverage.
Averna Cobbler
If the bitterness of amaro is what’s holding you back from fully embracing its unique flavor profile, fear not – the Averna Cobbler cocktail is here to revolutionize your perception. By incorporating a spoonful of marmalade, this creative concoction strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and fruitiness, making it an ideal choice for serving at your next gathering or brunch with friends.
Whether you’re looking for a refreshing alternative to traditional fruit punch or a sophisticated addition to your cocktail repertoire, Averna Cobbler is sure to impress.
Coffee Amaro Cocktail
Kick-start your morning with a refreshing twist on traditional coffee. The Coffee Amaro Cocktail is a must-try for anyone seeking a caffeinated boost to get their day off to a great start. This unique concoction combines the richness of cold brew coffee, the creaminess of half-and-half, and the subtle sweetness of Averna and orange bitters.
The result is a drink that tastes remarkably like your favorite cup of joe, but with an added kick that will keep you energized and focused throughout the morning.
Averna Champagne Cocktail
When it comes to special occasions or gathering with friends, there’s no shortage of reasons to pop open a bottle of bubbly. While champagne is certainly a classic choice, why not elevate your celebration by combining it with other ingredients? For instance, mixing in some elderflower and Averna creates a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, while adding St. Germain takes the combination to the next level, offering a harmonious blend that’s sure to impress.
Bark At The Moon
Bark at the Moon, a sophisticated adult cocktail, boasts a harmonious blend of rum, Averna, rye, sherry, cinnamon syrup, and bitters, resulting in a rich tapestry of flavors. The drink’s unique character is further enhanced by its versatile garnish options – lime and star anise, orange peel, or a splash of sherry for added refinement. Whatever your choice, the Bark at the Moon cocktail presents itself as complex, moody, and utterly captivating.
The interplay between Averna’s bittersweet notes and spicy undertones seamlessly merges with the rye’s botanical nuances, evoking a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of classic cocktails like the Martinez, yet infused with its own distinct personality. As you sip this warm and festive concoction, you’ll undoubtedly find yourself craving another serving.
Roman Highball
Imagine a revitalizing elixir that perfectly blends the warmth of ginger with the zest of lime, all wrapped up in a refreshing fizz. Meet the Roman Highball, a drink that’s akin to a Pimm’s Cup but with its own unique charm. By combining the spicy nuances of ginger liqueur with Averna’s subtle sweetness, fresh lime juice, and a splash of soda, this drink is an absolute delight at the end of a long day when you need something to quench your thirst and revive your spirits.
Averna Sour
Unwinding after a draining day is best savored with a glass of Averna Sour in hand, its complexities unraveling like a soothing balm. The harmonious union of sweet bourbon and fresh citrus elevates the drink’s character, imbuing it with an earthy charm. Meanwhile, the judicious addition of Averna injects a subtle bitterness, expertly balancing the flavors.
And then, the pièce de résistance: the egg white, which, when combined with the other ingredients, yields a delightfully creamy and foamy finish that’s nothing short of sublime.
Clásico 1934
Drawing inspiration from the classic cocktails of the 1934 era, Clásico 1934 is a refreshing twist on the traditional Manhattan. By substituting rum with Averna, this modernized take on the timeless cocktail offers a rich, complex flavor profile that’s both bitter and sweet, with a delightful effervescence. As you sip this sophisticated elixir, you’ll be transported to the vibrant, glamorous atmosphere of 1920s Havana, Cuba – an era when the island was renowned for its stylish allure.
With each sip, you’ll feel like you’ve taken a trip back in time, immersing yourself in the exuberant spirit of the era.
Endicott Cobbler
Endicott Cobbler harmoniously unites Averna’s rich flavors with the smoothness of sherry, resulting in a delightful blend of aromas and tastes. This refreshing cocktail is surprisingly easy to craft, boasting an exquisite balance of subtle nuances that linger on the palate. The hints of cherries, chocolates, and oranges are expertly woven together, making it a truly enjoyable drink that invites savoring.
The bottom line
The world of Amari is characterized by its vast array of options, ranging from sweet and subtle to complex and bold. While each Amari has its own distinct personality, they all share a common trait: they pair perfectly with meals. Among the most approachable of these Amari is Averna, which stands out for its natural sweetness, intense flavors, and warm spices. Its cinnamon and bitter orange notes evoke the spirit of Sicily in every sip.
Whether used to add depth to classic cocktails or enjoyed on its own, Averna’s unique flavor profile makes it a versatile choice for any occasion. Consider mixing it with whiskey to create a Black Manhattan, or combining it with citrus and egg white for an Averna Sour – the possibilities are endless!
