Sometimes bitter can be oh so sweet! Bitter chocolate in a sweet dessert. Bitter lemon in lemonade. The tart sensation of a key lime pie. The bitterness balances out the sweetness. Let’s face it, if things were just sweet all the time life would be a little bit boring and mundane. My bitter twist on a classic Negroni embraces the bitterness of Amaro instead of Vermouth and just a touch of lemon juice instead of an orange twist. I was in need of a little bitter cocktail after my not so sweet news of being summoned to jury duty for the first time. This definitely hit the spot for me and I hope it does for you too! Enjoy!

-2oz Venus Gin #2

-0.5oz St. George Bruto Americano

-0.5oz Averno Amaro

-0.5oz Lemon Juice

-Garnish- Maraschino Cherries

Grab a mixing glass and fill it with ice. Using a jigger measure out your ingredients and pour them in the mixing glass. Using your mixing spoon gently stir your cocktail focusing on the outer part of the glass so as not to crush the ice. Pour your mixture through a strainer into a glass over fresh ice and garnish with a cherry (or 2 or 3 because they are addictive). Sip and enjoy!

Notes: Both Venus Gin and St, George Spirits are local to the Bay Area in California. I like to support local businesses, but if you are unable to purchase them where you live or have a preference you can use the gin of your choice and Campari instead.