What Is Cardamaro and Why Should You Drink It Right Now?

The assumption that Cardamaro was a cardamom amaro could be forgiven. (Admittedly, we believed we were the experts in this area until recently.) Really, that is what Cardamaro would mean if you were naming Italian liqueurs, would not it?

Cardamaro is an interesting aperitif, no doubt! Here is a more sophisticated version of your description that includes the cocktail recipes:

Cardamaro is a wine-based aperitif that beautifully marries the flavors of cardoon and blessed thistle—both relatives of the artichoke. It has a richness similar to sweet vermouth but a mild herbal bitterness from being aged in oak barrels. It is delicious on its own, but imagine it as a lighter, more drinkable version of Cynar, which is made with artichokes.

Although it tastes great straight or on the rocks, cardamaro also makes cocktails better. Three tempting recipes to try are as follows:

Carda-Grapefruit is easy.

Grapefruit is the ideal complement to Cardamaro because it blends well with bittersweet flavors. Though its ingredients are simple, this tall drink has a refreshing complexity.

Instructions:

1. In an ice-filled tall glass, mix:

• 1.5 ounces of Cardamaro
• Grapefruit juice, two ounces fresh
• 2 ounces of club soda

1. Stir briefly, then top with a slice of grapefruit.

Intermediate: Carda-quila Manhattan

Reposado tequila and Cardamaro's vegetal notes blend harmoniously. The smooth, comforting sip of this Manhattan-style cocktail is perfect for chilly nights.

Instructions:

1. In an ice-filled mixing glass, mix together:

• 1.5 ounces of reposado tequila
• 1.5 ounces of Cardamaro
• Equal parts agave and hot water are combined to make 1/4 ounce of agave syrup.
• A pinch of bitter Angostura

1. After stirring until thoroughly chilled, strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a brandied cherry or a grapefruit twist.

Advanced: Carda-rye Sour

An irresistible sourness is produced by the combination of cardamom and the spicy flavor of rye whiskey. Using rye with a high proof improves the flavor profile overall.

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker with ice, combine:

• 1.5 ounces of high-proof rye (like Wild Turkey 101)
• A single ounce of cardamo
• 3/4 ounce of lemon juice
• 1/2 ounce of simple syrup
• A dash of Angostura bitters

1. Before straining into a rocks glass with fresh ice, give it a good shake. As a garnish, squeeze in a lemon wedge and leave it in the drink.

Savor the delightful variety of Cardamaro in these mixed drinks!

4o Mini