April 19th | The Nutty History of Amaretto: From Dutch Rebel to Italian Elixir

Amaretto, the sweet and nutty liqueur, has a rich history that spans centuries. Whether you prefer it straight up, on the rocks, or as an ingredient in a cocktail, there's no denying that amaretto is one of the most delicious and versatile spirits around. So, without further ado, let's dive into the origins and history of amaretto.

The History of Amaretto

Jan van der Amstel

Contrary to popular belief, amaretto did not originate in Italy, but in the bustling metropolis of Amsterdam. Yes, that's right – the city famous for its tulips and canals is also the birthplace of this beloved liqueur.

Picture this: it's the early 16th century, and a young Dutchman named Jan van der Amstel is working as a bookkeeper for a local distiller in Amsterdam. One day, he stumbles upon a secret recipe for a sweet almond liqueur and is so blown away by the taste that he decides to steal the recipe and bring it back to his hometown. What a rebel!

Jan's version of the liqueur quickly became the talk of the town, and soon, everyone who was anyone was clamoring for a sip of the sweet, nutty elixir. But it wasn't until the early 18th century that amaretto made its way to Italy, where it was refined and adapted into the delicious drink we know and love today.

How Amaretto is Made

The process of making amaretto is a closely guarded secret, but we do know a few things about how it's made. The first step is to soak almonds and/or apricot kernels in alcohol to extract their flavor. The alcohol is then distilled to create a pure, clear liquid.

Next, the distilled alcohol is combined with a syrup made from sugar, water, and other flavorings such as vanilla and spices. This mixture is then left to age for several months, allowing the flavors to meld and develop.

Finally, the amaretto is bottled and ready to be enjoyed. Whether you prefer it on its own or in a cocktail, amaretto is a delicious and versatile spirit that has stood the test of time.

Types of Amaretto

There are two main types of amaretto: amaretto di Saronno and amaretto liqueur. Amaretto di Saronno is the original and most famous variety, and it is made by the Italian company, Disaronno. The recipe for this version is a closely guarded secret, but it is known to contain almonds, apricot kernels, vanilla, and a blend of herbs and spices.

Amaretto liqueur, on the other hand, is a generic term that refers to any sweet almond liqueur. While it may not have the same prestige as amaretto di Saronno, there are still many delicious options out there, including Bols Amaretto, Lazzaroni Amaretto, and Gozio Amaretto.

Popular Amaretto Recipes

From its Dutch origins to its Italian refinement, amaretto has a long and fascinating history. Today, it remains one of the most popular liqueurs in the world, beloved for its sweet, nutty flavor and versatility. Whether you're a fan of amaretto di Saronno or prefer one of the many other varieties out there, there's no denying that amaretto is one of the most delicious spirits around.

Sources:

• "The Fascinating History of Amaretto Liqueur" by Amy Zavatto, VinePair

• "Amaretto" on Wikipedia

• "Amaretto" on Liquor.com.