Aperitifs are liqueurs drunk before a meal to stimulate one’s appetite. Don’t you just love the way Europeans think? There are so many ways to introduce pleasure into one’s life even as small as a drink to help increase the pleasure of a meal. Probably one of the most popular aperitifs is the Italian class of Amaro. While many Amari are digestifs, or meant to be drunk after a meal, some popular aperitif Amari include Campari and Aperol. Aperol Spritz coming to mind? Many American distilleries are now making Amari as well, one of my favorites is St. George’s Bruto Americano, and Amari are also becoming hot in cocktails right now! My new cocktail, Clockwork Sour, is the perfect aperitif for a small party or just meeting with a friend to make you salivate and want a good meal! Enjoy!

1oz Bourbon (I used Rock Hill this time)

1oz St. George Bruto Americano

1oz St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur

1oz Lemon Juice

Garnish: Expressed Lemon Peel

Grab a cocktail shaker and pour in bourbon, Bruto Americano, St. Germain, and lemon juice. Add ice and cap the shaker. Shake vigorously for 15-30 seconds. Strain the cocktail into an old fashioned glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lemon peel and serve! Cin Cin!

Notes: If you already have Campari at home you can substitute it in place of St. George Bruto Americano. My personal favorite bourbon to use for cocktails is Woodford Reserve, but I used Rock Hill this time because I had it on hand from a gift. This is not a cheap bourbon and very hard to get, but I was out of my usual supply. LOL