Cocchi Vermouth di Torino apéritif

I have a serious case of the Februaries. Can't shake 'em. I have ordered Indian take-out for dinner two of the past few nights. Three nights out of the past week if that statistic makes the case for restraint. And believe me, it did take restraint.  To my credit, I once branched out and ordered a new (to me) dish. I guess what I am trying to say is that I am not completely in a rut. But it is February. 

Did I mention it's also Monday?

Now seems like as good a time as any to introduce you to my favorite aperitif, Cocchi Vermouth di Torino. Have you tried it? This red vermouth follows the regional tradition of fortifying Moscato wine. Initially sweet and subtle, the finish is slightly bitter and earthy. I like the add a few dashes of Angostura bitters for a deeper, more complex flavor. Fragrant lemon peel rounds out the aperitif. It's as simple as that. 

Cocchi Vermouth di Torino apéritif
4 dashes Angostura bitters
2 ounces Cocchi Vermouth di Torino
lemon peel to garnish

Combine Angostura bitters and Cocchi Vermouth di Torino over ice. Stir until chilled. Serve over ice in an old-fashioned glass. Garnish with a generous lemon peel. Orange peel would also be nice.

Cheers!

hot toddy with bourbon and bitters

Though there is no one correct way to make a hot toddy, I have always secretly considered myself a purest. Bourbon, lemon, honey and hot water. It was only a matter of time before some tantalizing bitters would woo me and set me straight. 

Grand Classico Bitters. What a name! Of Swiss origin, Grand Classico strikes a pleasant balance between sweet and bitter. It offers a similar flavor profile to Campari, albeit less distinctive. 

In a hot toddy, the herbal undertone of the Grand Classico stand in for the tea often used in the drink. The sweet notes play nice with the complex flavors of a good honey, and compliment the smokiness of the bourbon. 

Grand Classico Hot Toddy
1 ounce Grand Classico bitters
1/2 ounce bourbon
juice of half a lemon
barspoon honey, or more to taste
boiling water

Combine Grand Classico, bourbon, juice of half a lemon and honey to taste in your favorite mug. Pour in boiling water, stirring to combine. 

Now go and curl up on the couch with this guy.

Cheers!