National Amaretto Day

Celebrated on 04/19/2026

Quick Fact

National Amaretto Day, celebrated on April 19th, honors the sweet almond-flavored liqueur that originated in Saronno, Italy. The name 'amaretto' comes from the Italian word 'amaro,' meaning 'bitter,' referring to the bitter almonds used in its production. Interestingly, the first amaretto was reportedly created as a gift for Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci.

Origins and Establishment of National Amaretto Day

National Amaretto Day was established by the Distilleria Casoni in 2015 to celebrate the legacy of amaretto liqueur. The date, April 19th, was chosen to coincide with the birthday of Leonardo da Vinci, who is said to have received the first batch of amaretto as a gift. The day aims to promote the appreciation of this classic Italian liqueur and its rich history.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its inception, National Amaretto Day has grown in popularity, with bars, restaurants, and liquor brands hosting tastings, cocktail-making competitions, and special promotions. Today, it is celebrated by enthusiasts who enjoy amaretto in classic cocktails like the Amaretto Sour, as well as in desserts and coffee. Social media campaigns using hashtags like #NationalAmarettoDay have helped spread awareness, and many distilleries offer virtual tours and recipes to engage a global audience.

Facts & General Observations

• Over 2 million cases of amaretto are sold worldwide annually, with the United States being the largest market.
• Amaretto is traditionally made from apricot pits, almonds, or a combination of both, giving it its distinctive flavor.
• The most popular cocktail featuring amaretto is the Amaretto Sour, which accounts for nearly 30% of all amaretto-based drink orders.

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