Digestivi
Amaro Montenegro
The short answer
Amaro Montenegro is a celebrated Italian bitter-sweet liqueur crafted from 40 botanicals. It is known for its approachable profile, featuring distinct notes of orange peel, coriander, and other sweet, floral elements.
- Style
- Floral, orange-peel amaro, 23% ABV
- Glass
- Rocks glass or tumbler
- Strength
- 23% ABV
Where it comes from
Originating in Bologna, Italy, in 1885, this liqueur was created by Stanislao Cobianchi and named in honor of Princess Elena of Montenegro. Its secret recipe, which includes 40 botanicals, is closely guarded and has made it one of Italy's most popular amari.
What you need
- 60 ml (2 oz) Amaro Montenegro
- Orange peel for garnish
- Large ice cube
How Larry builds it
- 01
Preparation. Place one large ice cube into a rocks glass to provide slow dilution.
- 02
The Pour. Pour 60 ml (2 oz) of Amaro Montenegro over the ice.
- 03
The Garnish. Express the oils of a fresh orange peel over the glass and drop it in to enhance the citrus notes.
Larry’s rule: Bologna since 1885. Bartenders' favorite 'shift drink'.
Variations worth making
Montenegro & Soda
A lighter, refreshing serve topped with sparkling soda water and a slice of orange.
Monte & Tonic
A modern favorite that pairs the herbal complexity of the amaro with the bitterness of tonic water.
Questions people ask
How bitter is Amaro Montenegro?
It is considered an approachable amaro, balancing its bitterness with significant floral sweetness and citrus notes, making it a good introduction to the category.
What are the 40 botanicals?
The full list is a well-kept secret, but known ingredients and prominent notes include sweet and bitter oranges, coriander, and cloves.
Is it a digestivo or aperitivo?
While traditionally served as a digestivo after dinner, its light and versatile profile allows it to be enjoyed as an aperitivo, often mixed with soda or tonic.
Can I drink it neat?
Yes, it is often served neat at room temperature or chilled to fully experience the complex herbal and floral aromatics.
What to eat with it
Pour it like Larry
The decanters, openers and glasses Larry keeps behind the bar.
Le Chateau Hand-Blown Crystal Wine Decanter with AeratorView on Amazon →
RBT Wine Decanter with Sediment Strainer & AeratorView on Amazon →
Chateau La Derive Swan Decanter Gift SetView on Amazon →
1800ml Lead-Free Crystal Wine Decanter SetView on Amazon →
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Order Amaro Montenegro with sausage and peppers at the spots on Larry’s lists:
More from Digestivi
← All 159 Italian drinksQuoting or citing this drink? Credit “Uncle Larry Adventures” and link to https://unclelarryadventures.com/beverages/montenegro.