Coming to us via Italy, Lucano has created a non-alcoholic amaro that makes a lovely sipping digestif. If you’re not familiar with amaros, they are a popular herbal liqueur originally created by the Italians for consuming after dinner. The word “amaro” translates to “bitter” in Italian. Amaros are typically created by macerating multiple herbs, roots, flowers, citrus peels and more. Is this conjuring a lovely aroma? It should! Like most categories of drinks, each amaro has its own distinct flavors as each has its own distinct recipe.
Amaros can be consumed neat, or with a spray of citrus, or as an ingredient in a cocktail. So, of course I had to experiment once I had a bottle in hand. I created a Negroni which included this NA amaro, an NA gin, as well as an NA orange aperitif. However, this concoction fell flat and didn’t have much flavor overall. I did create an Old Fashioned which was quite good. I do find that this amaro is best as intended, served neat after a good meal, in a lovely cordial glass.
Note that Lucano has been creating herbal liqueurs since 1894 based on a secret family recipe which features over 30 herbs. These are 28% ABV in their traditional form so it is lovely that they’ve decided to create a lower ABV for a broader audience. But be sure to look at the label carefully when purchasing to be sure you’re not getting the full-proof version. And keep in mind that in Italy, the guidelines for denoting “non-alcoholic” vs. “zero proof” are different than in the U.S. So while Lucano can refer to this product as “zero proof,” legally it is “non-alcoholic” in the United States.
LUCANO NA OLD FASHIONED RECIPE
- 1.0 oz Amaro Lucano NA
- 2.0 oz chilled black tea
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Dash of NA bitters
PREPARATION:
In a cocktail pitcher filled with ice, add all ingredients and stir until well-chilled. Strain into an Old Fashioned glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange peel or a cherry.
Category: Digestif
Place of origin: Italy
ABV: 0.5%
Total sugars: 6 grams
Storage: Refrigerate after opening. Best to be consumed within 2 years from production date.
Tasting notes: A complex blend of sage, elderberry and citrus with a bitter aftertaste.
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What is non-alcoholic amaro and how does it taste?
Non-alcoholic amaro is an Italian herbal digestif made by macerating herbs, roots, flowers, and citrus peels without the traditional alcohol content. Amaro Lucano offers complex flavors of sage, elderberry, and citrus with a characteristic bitter finish. It contains only 0.5% ABV, making it a great alcohol-free option for those seeking the traditional Italian digestif experience.
How should I serve non-alcoholic amaro?
Amaros are traditionally created to be served neat in a cordial glass after dinner. You can also add a spray of citrus for extra flavor. While it can be used in cocktails, be sure to choose other ingredients that compliment its complex herbal profile and bitter notes.
Can I use non-alcoholic amaro in cocktails?
Yes, you can use non-alcoholic amaro in cocktails. Creating cockails is all about balancing flavors, so don’t be afraid to experiment.✏️🗑️
What’s the difference between 0.5% ABV and truly alcohol-free drinks?
Drinks with 0.5% ABV are legally considered “non-alcoholic” in the US, while “zero proof” means completely alcohol-free. Amaro Lucano contains 0.5% ABV due to different Italian guidelines. This minimal amount is comparable to what’s naturally found in ripe fruit and is safe for most people avoiding alcohol.✏️🗑️
How should I store non-alcoholic amaro?
Store non-alcoholic amaro in the refrigerator after opening to maintain freshness and flavor quality. It should be consumed within 2 years of the production date for optimal taste. Proper refrigeration helps preserve the complex herbal flavors and prevents spoilage.
