Use Averna Amaro for cocktails where you want a sweeter, more herbal, and gentler bitter amaro. It works well for sipping neat or in less aggressive cocktail builds such as Paper Planes or Boulevardiers. Skip if you need a drier, more bitter amaro profile.

For bold, spirit-forward drinks requiring intense bitterness, substitute Luxardo Fernet at half the amount called for. Fernet is much more bitter and minty; start with half the amount and add simple syrup if needed to balance bitterness. Avoid using Fernet in delicate cocktails or desserts.

Amaro Montenegro is a lighter option with vanilla and citrus notes, working well in fruit-forward cocktails and casual sipping. Use it at a 1:1 ratio. Skip if the recipe requires a smoky or savory tone.

Cynar Artichoke Liqueur adds an earthy, savory edge and higher bitterness, ideal for Negroni-style and savory cocktails. Use a 1:1 substitution. Avoid if you want sweeter or floral notes or are making dessert drinks.

For a quick DIY substitute, mix aromatic bitters with fresh orange peel and simple syrup (1 teaspoon bitters, 1 tablespoon orange peel, 1 teaspoon syrup). This mix brings bitterness and citrus but lacks the complexity and smoothness of true amaro. Best for cocktails where amaro is supporting, not main.