It Only Hurts the First Time

This was excellent. My wife took the glass from me and kept it. I suspect it would work well with white grapefruit juice, too -- maybe even better, depending upon the sweetness of the fruits. I was surprised at how floral it is. The combination really brings out the floral nature of Gran Classico, which Campari lacks. It is also useful as a low-alcohol cocktail. Between the alcohol and the bitterness, it is pleasantly slow-sipping -- perfect for a relaxing afternoon where you might have more than one drink. Yet it drinks like a cocktail, rather than a super-light aperitif.

Dan,

I'm glad y'all liked it - I have a feeling this could be a long drink as well - strain into an ice-filled Collins and top with 3-4 oz of sparkling water.

Thanks,

Zachary

I'm looking forward to trying this one. I'd also love some more good recipes that include Maurin Quina, if anyone would like to share.

This is so, so good.

Christina,

Glad you like it - this was one of those "I'm staring at the liquor cabinet and I have no idea what to make" drinks that turns out to be a happy accident. It's definitely session-y: low alcohol, and bitter enough to force sipping. I think the important thing is not to stir it too long, and if you can, serve it in a small wineglass. I have a set of spirits tasting glasses from Pier One that are sharply tapered at the top and hold about 7 oz total.

Thanks,

Zachary