We invite you to explore the captivating world of amaro, a time-honored Italian herbal liqueur renowned for its rich complexity and intriguing depth of flavor. With a history steeped in tradition and a remarkable variety of profiles, amaro has earned its place as a beloved staple for discerning palates worldwide. Join us as we delve into its diverse range of expressions, each offering a unique experience that reflects centuries of craftsmanship and flavor innovation.
A Glimpse into Amaro’s Origins
Amaro, meaning “bitter” in Italian, traces its roots back to ancient Rome, where herbal infusions were crafted for medicinal purposes. Over centuries, these infusions evolved into the amaro we know today — a carefully balanced blend of bitter and sweet, intended to aid digestion after meals. By the 19th century, Italian families had perfected their own recipes using locally sourced herbs, creating a rich tradition of regional varieties.
Crafting Amaro: Tradition and Technique
The art of amaro lies in the meticulous craft behind each bottle. Botanicals such as herbs, roots, flowers, seeds, and spices are macerated in a base alcohol, extracting their essence into the spirit. This infusion is then sweetened and aged, allowing the flavors to harmonize into something complex and unforgettable. No two amari are the same — each recipe is a reflection of its origin, shaped by local ingredients and time-honored techniques.
A World of Flavor
Every bottle tells a story of time-honored traditions, local botanicals, and the skilled hands that craft each unique blend. From recipes passed down through generations to modern interpretations that push boundaries, each amaro offers a glimpse into the culture and landscape that shaped it. Our curated selection spans continents from the deep complexity of Italian classics to bold innovations from Spain and California, to the unique flavor of the Appalachian crafted right here in Asheville, NC. Whether you’re just beginning your amaro journey or are a seasoned enthusiast, our collection offers a window into the artistry behind this remarkable liqueur.
Featured Amari on Our Menu
Explore the exceptional amari featured at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird:
- Averna Amaro (Italy): A Sicilian classic with deep, rich flavors of herbs, spices, and a hint of citrus. Perfect for sipping or mixing.
- Lo-Fi Gentian Amaro (California): Known for its bold, earthy bitterness, this amaro delivers herbal complexity and a smooth, dry finish. Ideal for cocktails or enjoying on its own.
- Eda Rhyne Appalachian Fernet (Asheville, NC): Combines aromatic herbs from WNC with bold global spices, creating a flavor that’s earthy, herbal, and dynamic.
- Amaro De Vino Picon Vasco (Spain): A wine-based amaro with a mix of bitter and sweet notes, offering flavors of herbs, citrus, and a subtle wine undertone.
- Amaro De Vino Apero Iberico (Spain): A Spanish amaro with a unique blend of bitter and aromatic flavors, balancing herbal bitterness with refreshing citrus.
- Cynar (Italy): Made from artichokes and other herbs, Cynar brings an earthy, slightly bitter flavor with hints of caramel and spices.
- Campari (Italy): An iconic bitter liqueur, Campari is known for its vibrant red color and a blend of bitter, herbal, and citrus notes that create refreshing complexity.
- Aperol (Italy): Lighter and sweeter than Campari, Aperol offers bright orange flavors with a balanced bitterness, perfect for a refreshing spritz.
- Fernet Branca (Italy): A bold, intensely herbal amaro with deep bittersweet flavors, featuring notes of mint, spices, and a touch of sweetness.
A Sneak Peek at Our Spring Cocktail Menu
Exciting things are on the horizon with the upcoming arrival of our spring cocktail menu! We’re especially thrilled about a few standout amaro creations that are sure to impress.
- The Dodo: Featuring strawberry-infused Campari, this cocktail adds a fresh, fruity twist to a classic, perfectly balancing bitterness with a burst of bright berry flavor.
- Loco Lobos: A bold blend of Cynar and Aperol creates a beautifully bittersweet experience with a lively citrus kick.
- Paper Plane: A flawless mix of bitterness and sweetness, this timeless cocktail is guaranteed to keep you coming back for more.
We can’t wait to shake things up this season and share these incredible cocktails with you. Stay tuned for more updates, and in the meantime, check out our cocktail menu to get a taste of what we’re all about — our spring offerings will be debuting soon!