If, now that summer has landed on us with both feet, retreating into something super-crisp and very cold at the end of the day sounds just about right, I’ve got a winner for you here.
It’s yet another variation on the durable, delicious, and rather dangerous Negroni, this time adding the sharp flavor of grapefruit via pamplemousse liqueur, and substituting French vermouth for Italian. Gin is, of course, always a great place to start. Then this drink adds layers of tart/bitter flavor to the sweetness of the vermouth, creating a lovely sip that will simmer you down on a hot afternoon.
Be aware that, like the Negroni, this one is all booze – no fruit juice, no mixers – so take it slow and easy. Forget about the weird name, focus on the flavors – and that gorgeous, glowing color – and you’ll feel better shortly!
Belfast Bastard
2 oz gin
.5 oz French (dry) vermouth
.5 oz Campari
.5 oz pamplemousse (grapefruit) liqueur – I’m using Giffard
Dash orange bitters
Combine all with ice and stir (you can shake it if you must) to get it icy cold. Strain into a cocktail glass and sip, sip, sip.