Amaro is a type of Italian herbal liqueur known for its bitter-sweet flavor profile, commonly used in cocktails and as a digestif. The word "amaro" itself means "bitter" in Italian, which is reflective of the liqueur's primary taste. It is typically made by infusing a base alcohol with a blend of herbs, roots, flowers, bark, and citrus peels. The exact blend of botanicals varies widely, giving rise to a diverse array of amari (plural of amaro) with unique flavor characteristics.

In the context of cocktails, amaro is often used to add complexity and depth. It can be a key ingredient in classic cocktails like the Negroni, where it balances the sweetness of vermouth and the sharpness of gin. Additionally, amaro can be used as a substitute for other bitters in cocktail recipes, providing a more nuanced and layered bitterness. Whether sipped neat, on the rocks, or as part of a mixed drink, amaro brings a distinctive, sophisticated edge to any alcoholic concoction.