Amaro Montenegro

Often called the gateway amaro, Montenegro is lighter and more approachable than heavy hitters like Fernet-Branca. It has this orange blossom and vanilla character that makes it drinkable neat after dinner or on the rocks. In cocktails, it works as a sweet vermouth substitute in a Black Manhattan, pairing beautifully with rye or bourbon. Made in Bologna since 1885, it’s named after a Montenegrin princess. If you’re stocking your first amaro, this is probably the one to start with — it plays well with almost everything.

Last modified on October 15, 2026