We’ve compiled some Italian-inspired cocktails—mixed by world class bartenders but not too complex for at-home enjoyment.
These concoctions highlight the beauty of Nocello, Fragoli, and Peachello, which all have deeply Italian roots.
Cocktails by Johnny Caldwell and Taneka Reaves
Cocktail Bandits, Charleston, SC
“Last September, we had the opportunity to spend seven days in the Italian countryside,” say Caldwell and Reaves. “Escorted by the Italian Trade Commission, we visited a combination of 10 different distilleries in the Northern and Southern regions of Italy. We met the owners and distillers of mostly family-owned companies while sipping from their expansive spirits portfolio. Additionally, we visited several popular Italian bars to research how the locals enjoyed these classic spirits. What stood out the most was the Aperitivo Cocktail hour. Typically, when one orders a drink at an Italian bar, some snack or complementary bite is served as well (and not just bowls of pretzels and nuts). We’ve created these cocktails to highlight those flavors and enjoy before a meal.”
Morning Motivation
1 oz of Van Gogh Double Espresso Vodka
.5 oz of Nocello Walnut Liqueur
1.5 oz of Unsweetened Black Tea
.5 oz of Cinnamon Brown Sugar Syrup
Directions:
Add Espresso Vodka, Nocello liqueur, black tea, and cinnamon syrup to the mixing tin full of ice. Secure lid then shake passionately. Strain mixture into chilled wine glass. Lovingly place cinnamon stick garnish.
Infrared
1 oz of Toschi Fragoli
1.25 oz of Hendricks Gin
.75 oz of Dry Vermouth
.50 oz of Lime Juice
Directions:
Add ingredients to mixing tin. Fill tin with ice. Shake passionately. Strain mixture into chilled coupe glass. Garnish with fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, basil).
Christina Basham
Bubbles and Agave, Columbus, OH
“We all know that Italians make some of the best spirits in the world,” says Basham. “From amari to liqueurs – they are rooted in history and passion, and they are truly outstanding.”
The Bitter Royal
45ml Reposado Tequila
22ml Bitter Aperitif
20ml Pallini Peachello
2 dash Angostura bitters
Directions:
Add all ingredients to mixing glass with ice and stir 30-50 seconds to dilute and chill.
Strain liquid into rocks glass with fresh ice and garnish with expressed grapefruit peel.
