“Amaro isn’t exactly new. In fact, Italians have been producing proprietary blends of the bitter liqueur for centuries. It wasn’t until the past decade, however, that American bargoers developed an obsession with the spirit. Its varied, complex flavors insure a supporting role in cocktail composition. On its own, supposed medicinal benefits have long positioned the drink at dinner’s end; a digestive aid. But it turns out that amaro can work just as well before a meal. And a growing number of contemporary connoisseurs are learning to unlock its pre-dinner potential.” – Brad Japhe, Forbes
So many of you say to us that you want your wedding day to be unique. We hear you when you say that you are after “something different.” You might not know exactly what that looks like yet, but we have a few thoughts on the topic to share. If your wedding is all about the party vibe, we’re talking the band and the bar, well let’s chat about the bar! Bourbon bars have had their day in the sun, and truly, we see no end in sight. They’re pretty fun but they are certainly not different! Once you go down the bourbon-bunny-hole, it’s hard to stop yourself. If we may, let’s try.
“Every amaro is different, and there are hundreds. Many are local and artisanal, though there are large brands, like Ramazzotti and Fernet Branca. Amaro is traditionally made by infusing grape brandy with a (usually secret) mix of herbs, flowers, aromatic bark, citrus peel and spices—a blend that can include anything from cardamom to elderberry flowers. Then it’s sweetened with sugar syrup and aged, sometimes for years. It’s silky, like a liqueur; bitter and sweet in varying degrees; aromatically complex; and, as far as I’m concerned, both delicious and fascinating.” – Ray Isle, Food & Wine
Amari (Amaro, plural) as a featured Bitter Bar can create an immersive experience for you and your guests that transitions seamlessly from cocktail hour through dinner and dancing. Let’s have a little real talk, Aunt Pam can set aside her Chardonnay (with a single ice cube) for one evening, she will be ok. Your cousin Tiffany won’t miss her vodka/soda, and Uncle Bri could use a change in scenery from his usual Jack and ginger, trust us. They won’t be annoyed when they try what we are serving up and they’ll have you to thank.
True or False – a craft cocktail should be both beautiful and festive. Absolutely true! As an apertivo, we recommend riffing on pretty drinks like the Aperol Spritz, the Americano, Negroni, or classic Campari and soda to stimulate the palate. In general, all are lower in ABV and perfect for hot summer weddings, though still just enoughto get the party started.
Once all of the dinner plates have been picked up, along with the music, we’ll be showing off behind the bar with digestifs, like Montenegro, Averna, Rammazotti and the rest of the gang. Ever tried a Black Manhattan? Order one up on your next date night out, we’re pretty sure you’ll want one at the wedding too.
To get down with your own Amaro Bar, just ask your Wedding Specialist! Loving this idea and want to elevate the experience? Request a Master Bartender. We maintain a short list of professional students of mixology who have a deep knowledge of spirits. They enjoy sharing the history and backstory of your selections. He or she will connect with your guests to navigate flavor profiles and ultimately create an extraordinary evening unlike any other.