Suze substitutes
The closest substitute for Suze is Cocchi Americano, which works but the drink will taste a little different. Also gentian-bitter, softer. In a pinch, use Aperol or Lillet Blanc.
What to use instead of Suze
| Substitute | How much | Strength | Typical drink |
|---|---|---|---|
Cocchi AmericanoWorks, tastes different Also gentian-bitter, softer. Same amount | Same amount | 16.5% ABV | About the same |
AperolLast resort Sweeter and less earthy. Same amount | Same amount | 11% ABV | −1 point |
Lillet BlancLast resort Much less bitter. Same amount | Same amount | 17% ABV | About the same |
Almost the same: most people won’t notice. Works, tastes different: still a good drink, just a different one. Last resort: better than skipping the drink. Typical drink: the usual change in ABV, in percentage points, across the drinks below.
Swap it in your drink
Pick a substitute to see how much to pour in each drink with Suze, how strong the drink ends up and when to adjust the sugar.
- White Negroni
30ml (1 oz) Suze → 30ml (1 oz) Cocchi Americano
Same strength
How they compare
| Property | Suze | Cocchi Americano |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Liqueur | Fortified Wine |
| Strength | 15–20% ABV | 16.5% ABV |
| Taste | Intensely bitter, Earthy, Slightly sweet, Herbal | Bittersweet, Orange, Gentian, Wine |
| Aroma | Gentian, Earthy, Floral, Bitter herbs | Orange blossom, Bitter orange, Herbs, Quinine |
| Finish | Long, Bitter, Clean | Bitter, Orange, Clean |
Bottles like Suze
Salers Gentiane and Avèze are made in the same style as Suze, so they swap in at the same amount.
What is Suze?
Suze is a French gentian liqueur with bright yellow color and intensely bitter, earthy flavor. Used in the White Negroni and other bitter cocktails.
Questions about Suze substitutes
What is the best substitute for Suze?
Cocchi Americano is the closest substitute for Suze, though the drink will taste a little different. Also gentian-bitter, softer. Use the same amount.
What can I use instead of Suze in a White Negroni?
Cocchi Americano: swap 30ml (1 oz) of Suze for 30ml (1 oz) of Cocchi Americano.
What else tastes like Suze?
Salers Gentiane and Avèze are made in the same style as Suze, so they swap in at the same amount. Expect small differences in bitterness and sweetness.
Does Cocchi Americano instead of Suze change how strong the drink is?
Barely. In the drink on this page that use Suze, Cocchi Americano changes the strength by less than one percentage point.
More liqueur substitutes
Out of Suze?
Proof knows these swaps. Tell it which bottles you have and it shows the drinks you can still make.