There’s something about a Palermo cocktail that just hits the spot—bright, smooth, and a little bit nutty, with a citrusy zing that makes it perfect for warm days or cozy nights in. It’s one of those drinks that feels elegant but is surprisingly simple to make at home. I’ve made this drink countless times, and I’ve learned a few tricks along the way to help you get it just right.
Palermo
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Lowball glass (or a martini glass for a fancier feel)
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) bourbon
– 1 oz (30 ml) amaretto
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice (fresh is key!)
– 0.25 oz (7 ml) simple syrup
– Ice
– Lemon twist or cherry, for garnish
Method
- Chill your glass. Fill it with ice while you prep the drink. This keeps your cocktail cold and crisp.
- Shake it up. In a cocktail shaker (or a mason jar with a lid), combine the bourbon, amaretto, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Fill with ice, then shake it like you mean it—about 15 seconds. You want it frosty on the outside and well-mixed inside.
- Prep your glass. Dump the ice out of your now-chilled glass.
- Strain and pour. Strain the cocktail into your glass. No ice needed in the final drink—it’s smooth sipping from here.
- Garnish. Add a lemon twist or a cherry for that final touch of flair.
Storage Tips
– If you’re making a batch for a party, mix everything except the lemon juice ahead of time and keep it chilled. Add the lemon juice right before serving for the freshest flavor.
– Leftover simple syrup? Store it in a jar in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail really shines with food that lets its sweet-citrus balance pop. Here are a few of my favorite pairings:
- Charcuterie boards: The citrus cuts through the richness of cured meats and cheeses.
- Grilled seafood: Think shrimp skewers or a smoky grilled salmon filet.
- Spicy snacks: The sweetness of the drink helps tame the heat in spicy appetizers like jalapeño poppers or spicy wings.
Tips & Tricks
- Always use fresh lemon juice. Bottled just doesn’t have the same punch.
- Adjust the sweetness. If you like your cocktails less sweet, go easy on the simple syrup or skip it entirely. The amaretto already brings some sweetness.
- No shaker? Use a mason jar with a tight lid, or stir everything well in a mixing glass with ice and strain.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio—it’s refreshing, smooth, and just fancy enough to impress friends.
Make It Your Own
Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun variations:
Palermo Rosso
– Add a splash of red vermouth for a deeper, slightly herbal flavor.
– Garnish with an orange slice instead of lemon.
Sparkling Palermo
– Replace the simple syrup with a splash of prosecco or sparkling water.
– Stir gently to keep those bubbles intact.
Palermo Noir
– Try a dark or black amaretto for a richer, deeper flavor.
– Garnish with fresh mint for a cool finish.
Virgin Palermo (non-alcoholic)
– Mix 0.5 oz (15 ml) lemon juice, 1 oz (30 ml) almond syrup, and top with sparkling water.
– Serve over ice for a refreshing mocktail.
Substitutions & Notes
– No bourbon? Rye whiskey works great and adds a spicy edge.
– Watching sugar? Use a sugar-free simple syrup or just skip it.
– Want more citrus? Add a dash more lemon juice to brighten it up.
– No amaretto? Hazelnut or walnut liqueurs offer a fun twist.
Why This Recipe Works
This cocktail balances the smooth warmth of bourbon with the sweet almond flavor of amaretto, all brightened up by lemon juice. The simple syrup just ties it all together without overpowering anything. Shaking chills and blends everything fast, so you get a clean, smooth sip every time.
Q&A
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
You can, but fresh lemon juice makes a big difference in taste. It’s brighter and more vibrant.
Don’t have a shaker?
Use a mason jar or just stir the ingredients with ice and strain. It’ll still taste great.
Is this just a summer drink?
Not at all! The bourbon base makes it cozy enough for colder months too.
Can I make it in a big batch?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher. Add lemon juice just before serving for best flavor.
What’s the best garnish?
A lemon twist is classic, but a cherry adds a nice pop of color and sweetness too.
Any non-alcoholic alternatives to bourbon?
Try a bourbon-flavored syrup or a non-alcoholic whiskey substitute. Still delicious and booze-free.
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Whether you’re sipping it solo or serving a crowd, the Palermo is a smooth, citrusy cocktail that’s easy to love and even easier to make your own. Cheers to that!
