Disaronno vs Amaretto: What's the Difference?

Ask for an amaretto sour at almost any bar in America and the bottle coming off the shelf is usually Disaronno. The two names get used interchangeably so often that "is Disaronno the same as amaretto?" is one of the most common liqueur questions we hear at Main Street Liquor®. The short answer: amaretto is the category, Disaronno is the most famous brand within it — and there is one surprising twist in how it is made.

Amaretto Is a Style. Disaronno Is a Brand.

Amaretto is an Italian liqueur style defined by its sweet, nutty, marzipan-like flavor. The name comes from amaro, Italian for "bitter," a nod to the gentle bitter-almond note that balances the sweetness. Traditional amarettos get that flavor from almonds, apricot kernels, or both, and most sit between 21% and 28% alcohol by volume. Dozens of producers make one.

Disaronno — fully, Disaronno Originale — is the best-known amaretto-style liqueur in the world, instantly recognizable by its square-shouldered bottle. The brand traces its recipe to Saronno, Italy, and the year 1525. So every Disaronno pour is an amaretto-style pour, but not every amaretto is Disaronno.

The Twist: Disaronno Contains No Almonds

Here is the part that surprises people. Despite its signature almond flavor, Disaronno's producer states the recipe contains no almonds and no nuts — the flavor comes from apricot kernel oil and a secret blend of botanicals. Interestingly, the brand labels itself an "originale" liqueur rather than an amaretto. If allergies are a concern, always confirm current ingredient information with the producer directly.

How They Compare in a Glass

In cocktails, any quality amaretto works where a recipe calls for one — the classic amaretto sour (amaretto, lemon, simple syrup, optionally an egg white), the Godfather (scotch and amaretto), or simply poured over ice after dinner. Disaronno runs 28% ABV, on the stronger and drier end of the style, which is why it holds up so well in cocktails rather than drinking like syrup.

Which Bottle Should You Buy?

• Disaronno Originale — the benchmark. If you want the flavor you know from the bar, this is it.
• Disaronno Velvet — a smooth cream-liqueur take on the classic; think dessert in a glass.
• Disaronno Riserva — a limited-edition, barrel-finished expression for collectors and serious fans.

You can browse our full liqueur collection for more amaretto options and after-dinner pours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Disaronno the same as amaretto? Functionally yes — it is the world's best-known amaretto-style liqueur, though the brand itself avoids the word amaretto on the label and famously uses no almonds.

What does Disaronno taste like? Sweet marzipan and stone fruit up front, with a gently bitter almond-style finish that keeps it from being cloying.

Does amaretto go bad? Not in any meaningful hurry — an unopened bottle keeps essentially indefinitely. We cover storage and shelf life in our companion guide: Does Amaretto Go Bad?

Must be 21 or older to purchase. Please enjoy responsibly.