
It all started with a negroni*, that sweet and bitter dance of a cocktail that will leave your tastebuds wondering what just happened. A combination of Campari, Gin, and vermouth, the first time I had one, I couldn’t drink it all—it was just too bitter—but something about it made me order it again. And slowly, like beer and coffee, I gained a taste for that signature bitter flavor known as Campari.
Since then, I’ve been trying new bitters when we’re out, and adding to my home collection whenever I get the chance. Last weekend I finally picked up a bottle of Aperol, made by the same company as Campari. It’s like Campari light if you ask me—still bitter but with a sweet side that shines bright. Of course I started dreaming up combinations right away… I came up with this little number, the Bitter Sipper.
It’s a pretty simple cocktail: a splash of Aperol, a splash of grapefruit juice (because I crave the bitter!), topped off with spicy ginger ale. It’s bitter, it’s bright, it ends with a little spice—it’ll keep you coming back for more. Man I love it. I hope you do to. Cheers!
*How do I not have a negroni on this site? I’m going to remedy that stat!
bitter sipper
makes one cocktail
1 1/2 ounce Aperol
1 1/2 ounce grapefruit juice
ginger beer, preferably something spicy like Bruce Cost or Cock n’ Bull
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1. In a tall collins-style glass filled with ice, add your aperol, then grapefruit juice, and top off with the ginger beer. Add a slice of grapefruit to the rim of the glass, along with a straw, and start sipping. Cheers! |