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7 Amaro Meletti Alternatives: Flavor Your Drinks

Feeling like changing up our drinks with some fresh flavors? Us too.

Amaro Meletti is a favorite, sure, but sometimes we need alternatives. Why stick to just one when there’s a whole toolbox of options to mix up our beverages? From budget-friendly bottles to those secret bartender picks, we’ve got it all covered.

We’ve tasted and tested a bunch, so you don’t have to. Ready to spice up your drinks with new flavors? Let’s get started!

7 Easy Substitutes for Amaro Meletti

While Amaro Meletti is a fantastic choice for flavoring your drinks, there are plenty of other options out there that can provide similar taste profiles. Here are some great substitutes to try:

1 – Averna Amaro

The swap: we’ve been loving Averna Amaro. It’s similar to Amaro Meletti, with a sweet and herbal taste. You get caramel notes plus a hint of citrus. This one’s smooth and rich.

Pro tip: use Averna Amaro in your cocktails with a 1:1 substitute ratio. We made an Averna Negroni, and it was spot on. You can find more info on this Averna substitutes guide.

Try mixing it with tonic or just ice. It’s versatile and easy. We’re impressed with its depth and balance.

2 – Nonino Amaro

The flavor of Nonino Amaro reminds us of taking a sip of bittersweet heaven. It has a strong herbal profile with a hint of spice and a touch of honey-like sweetness.

A key feature is its balance between bitter and sweet. A bit more floral than Meletti, Nonino adds a unique twist to your drinks.

We swapped it in with a 1:1 ratio and made an amazing Nonino spritz. Want more tips on Nonino substitutes? Check out this detailed guide on Amaro Nonino alternatives.

Mix with soda or blend into cocktails. It’s versatile and delicious.

3 – Ramazzotti Amaro

Ramazzotti Amaro is a solid and straightforward option. It’s a bit sweeter than Meletti, with a clear, herbal kick. We really enjoyed its hint of orange zest and the subtle bitterness that lingers.

Perfect for those who want a milder taste. Use it in equal parts as you would Amaro Meletti. We found it ideal for spritzes and easy to mix with soda. Try it with ice for a smooth, refreshing drink. Ramazzotti brings balance without overwhelming the palate.

4 – Aperol

While you’re looking to switch things up, Aperol is a fantastic choice. It’s less bitter and more on the sweet side compared to Meletti, with strong notes of orange and a hint of herbs.

We’ve found it to be much lighter and more refreshing. Perfect for a summer drink. Use a 1:1 ratio in cocktails like a spritz or mix with soda. Trust us, it’s a crowd-pleaser.

We had a blast making an Aperol spritz during our last barbecue. For more insights, check out this Aperol substitutes guide.

5 – Campari

When we’re seeking a vibrant twist, Campari is our go-to. It’s got that intense red color and a bold, bittersweet taste.

Campari is bitterer than Meletti, with a sharp kick and notes of orange peel, herbs, and spices. It’s less sweet, making it perfect for cocktails needing a bitter backbone.

We recommend a 1:1 ratio swap. Made an irresistible Negroni with it. Its distinct flavor stands out. For similar options, check out our Campari substitutes guide.

Mix with soda or tonic. It’s versatile and loved in our drinks.

6 – Sweet Vermouth

One of our favorite substitutes is Sweet Vermouth. It has that rich, fortified wine vibe with a hint of spice and a touch of caramel sweetness. Sub this for Amaro Meletti in equal parts.

We love it in a Negroni—it’s smooth and balanced. You’ll notice a gentle herbal note, which adds complexity to cocktails without overpowering them. Sweet Vermouth cuts through with its distinct taste, making your drink refined yet approachable.

Need more Sweet Vermouth swaps? Check out the Sweet Vermouth substitutes guide for other ideas.

7 – Angostura Bitters

Last on our list, Angostura Bitters brings a punch of flavor. It’s got those deep, robust, aromatic notes. Perfect for adding complexity to drinks like Old Fashioneds.

Think earthy spices and a hint of clove. We love the bittersweet kick it adds. Use Angostura Bitters sparingly—just a few dashes will do.

Try it with soda or mix it into your cocktails. Curious about more options? Check out this Angostura Bitters substitutes guide. It’s a handy resource for finding the right flavor boost.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Averna Amaro a suitable substitute for Amaro Meletti?

Averna Amaro shares a rich, sweet flavor with Amaro Meletti but has a slightly stronger herbal and citrusy profile, making it a great substitute for cocktails requiring a bit more complexity.

Can Nonino Amaro replace Amaro Meletti in classic cocktails?

Yes, Nonino Amaro offers a smoother, lighter taste compared to Amaro Meletti, with a unique fruity note. It’s a great option for drinks where you want a less intense herbal flavor.

How does Aperol compare to Amaro Meletti in cocktails?

Aperol is lighter and more citrus-forward, offering a sweet and tangy profile that contrasts with the rich bitterness of Amaro Meletti. It’s a good choice when you want a more refreshing drink.

Can Campari work as a substitute for Amaro Meletti in a Negroni?

Yes, Campari’s bitterness makes it a great substitute in a Negroni, though it’s more intense than Amaro Meletti. It will add a more pronounced herbal kick to the drink.

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