Amaro Aplomado from Falcon Spirits is a distinctive American take on the amaro tradition—crafted in Richmond, California with a bold commitment to local ingredients and artisanal production. Made with a grain and California grape brandy base at 32% ABV, this herbal liqueur features fresh California artichoke as its signature botanical component, sourced at peak flavor and complemented by a carefully selected blend of 25 locally-sourced roots, herbs, fruits, and flowers. The maceration infusion takes over a month, with each individual component meticulously blended to create a unique balance of bitter and sweet elements with a solid herbal backbone—resulting in an amaro that is less sweet and considerably more herbal-forward than typical Italian counterparts.

The nose opens with lovely herbal and orange aromatics that immediately signal complexity and craft, while the palate delivers the distinctive character of fresh artichoke balanced against herbal spices, citrus undertones, and subtle bittersweet notes. This is an amaro for purists—quite dry and very bitter with wonderful body and a pleasant lingering mouthfeel. The artichoke provides a vegetal, savory foundation that creates remarkable depth without the sweetness that dominates many commercial amari. Each botanical component shines through, creating a layered drinking experience that rewards contemplation and encourages sipping.

Perfect enjoyed as a traditional digestif after a meal to aid digestion, served chilled and neat over ice, or featured in craft cocktails where its herbal intensity and distinctive bitter-savory character can shine—particularly in variations on the Little Italy cocktail. This is amaro for the adventurous drinker, one who appreciates bittersweet complexity and the unique terroir that American craft spirits bring to time-honored traditions. Falcon Spirits' commitment to local sourcing and meticulous production proves that exceptional amaro doesn't have to come from Italy.