Cardamaro is one of those drinks that quietly steals the show. With its warm, herbal notes and just the right touch of bitterness, it’s a go-to when you’re in the mood for something a little different—but still incredibly easy to enjoy. I’ve made this drink countless times, and I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails that never fails to impress.
Cardamaro
Let’s break it down so you can sip and savor it with confidence.
Ingredients
Serves: 1
Prep time: 2 minutes
Glassware: Rocks glass or wine glass
- 2 oz (60 ml) Cardamaro Vino Amaro
- 1 orange slice (fresh is best)
- Splash of club soda (about 1 oz or 30 ml)
- Ice
Method
- Fill a rocks glass with ice. You want it chilled but not overly diluted, so avoid crushed ice here.
- Pour in 2 oz (60 ml) of Cardamaro. It’s got a wine base, so it’s smoother and a bit sweeter than some of the more intense amari out there.
- Add a splash of club soda—just enough to open up the flavors without watering it down.
- Garnish with a fresh orange slice. Give it a little squeeze over the glass first to release some of the oils and juice—it makes a big difference.
What Is Cardamaro, Anyway?
Cardamaro is an Italian herbal liqueur, made with wine, cardoon (a cousin of the artichoke), and a mix of spices. It’s part of the amaro family—those bittersweet digestifs Italy is famous for—but it’s much lighter and more approachable than some of its bolder cousins.
The name combines “cardoon” and “amaro,” and the result is a drink that’s earthy, slightly sweet, and gently bitter, with a smooth, almost tea-like finish. Think of it as a cozy herbal tea with a little kick.
Tips for the Best Cardamaro Cocktail
- Don’t overdo the soda. You want it to sparkle, not drown the flavor. A splash is plenty.
- Use a fresh orange slice. It brings out the citrusy notes and balances the bitterness beautifully.
- Chill your glass if you’ve got time—it keeps the drink crisp longer.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prep a batch of Cardamaro and soda (minus the ice and garnish) a few hours ahead if you’re serving guests. Keep it chilled in the fridge, then pour over ice and garnish just before serving.
Once opened, a bottle of Cardamaro will keep for several months. Store it in a cool, dark place—no need to refrigerate, but it doesn’t hurt either.
Serving Suggestions
Cardamaro works great before or after a meal. It’s light enough to kick off an evening, but also has those digestive herbs that make it a perfect nightcap.
Here are a few pairings I love:
- Cheese board: Creamy cheeses like Brie or goat cheese balance the bitter-sweet flavor.
- Grilled veggies: The caramelized edges of zucchini or eggplant really bring out the herbal notes.
- Dark chocolate: A square of 70% cacao and a sip of Cardamaro? That’s a quiet little celebration right there.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights when I want something simple but still feel like I’m treating myself.
Variations to Try
Spicy Cardamaro
- Add a small slice of fresh chili or a dash of chili tincture
- Build as usual, garnish with orange and a chili sliver
Cardamaro Spritz
- 1 oz (30 ml) Cardamaro
- 2 oz (60 ml) Prosecco
- 1 oz (30 ml) soda water
- Serve over ice in a wine glass with an orange twist
Herbal Cardamaro
- Add a sprig of thyme or rosemary as garnish
- Optional: muddle a few leaves at the bottom of the glass before adding ice
Non-Alcoholic Option
Mix cooled chamomile tea with a splash of white grape juice and a squeeze of lemon. Serve over ice with an orange slice. It’s not the same, but it’s got the same relaxing vibe.
FAQs
Can I serve Cardamaro warm?
Yes! Gently heat it (don’t boil) and serve in a mug. It’s surprisingly comforting on chilly nights.
Is Cardamaro vegan?
Most brands are plant-based, but it’s always smart to check the label for any clarifying agents.
How long does it last after opening?
Stored in a cool, dark spot, it’ll stay good for a few months. You might notice the flavors mellow a bit over time.
Can I make my own version?
You can try! Start with a bottle of sweet vermouth and infuse it with herbs like cardamom, artichoke leaf, or gentian root. It won’t be exact, but it can be a fun experiment.
What if I don’t have Cardamaro?
Try another amaro like Averna or Cocchi Americano for a similar feel. Or go non-alcoholic with a bitter herbal tea and a splash of soda.
Cardamaro is one of those drinks that feels timeless. Whether you’re sipping it solo, serving it to friends, or pairing it with your favorite bites, it brings a little bit of Italian charm to the table. And with just a few tweaks, you can make it your own.
