Sometimes, what you want is something with a little bit more bite to it, something that’s sharp enough to make you slightly wince in wonder and ask yourself why you haven’t gone bitter before.
But you don’t want it too tart, because the best thing about the first sharpener of the day is looking forward to the next.
Irresistible as Aperol is, here a few alternative ways to get your new favourite fix.
1. Negroni
It dates back more than 100 years, but a negroni is still one of the trendiest cocktails on the circuit. With only three ingredients (equal parts Campari, gin and red vermouth), we love the simplicity of this bittersweet classic that doesn’t skimp on flavour and always hits the spot.
2. Dry Martini
Stirred, not shaken… the most famous cocktail in the world can be a rather intoxicating experience. Which is why sometimes it only takes one to sharpen the palate. Gin, dry vermouth (a dash of orange bitters if you really want to perk it up), and a green olive or lemon twist. Quality.
3. Select Bitter Aperitif
We’ve been spritzing all summer long, and one of the bittersweet charms of this fiery red is you can play around with its herbal and floral infusions (Select is a blend of 30 botanicals, including juniper berries and rhubarb root). Mix two parts Select Aperitivo with three parts prosecco, a splash of soda and garnish with a large, green olive.
4. Whiskey Sour
Scotch, bourbon or rye whiskey? For purposes here, if you want your whiskey sour to taste smooth and not sweet, we recommend a rye whiskey or smoky Islay single malt. By law, bourbon must be made from at least 51 per cent corn (so it’s sweeter) while rye has a spicy, earthy element that makes it a great base for cocktails. Likewise, with Bowmore No. 1, its signature peaty smoke won’t get lost in the cocktail. We like to add a couple of dashes of Angostura bitters too.
5. Campari and Soda
One of the best bitter drinks around, the art of a good Campari and soda is not to scrimp on the red stuff, so don’t drown it with too much soda water. And for a bit more zest, run a slice of orange round the rim of the glass before garnishing with half a slice.
6. Gin and Bitter Lemon
With premium tonic trending big time, it’s easy to forget the joys of a bitter lemon, which will add plenty of citrus potency to your gin. Just fill a highball glass with ice, add a measure of gin, top with bitter lemon and garnish with a slice. And there you have it.
Are you a fan of drinks with a bitter twist? What’s your go-to alcoholic drink? Why not let us know in the comments section below?
– With PA
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