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March 2015

Negroni, a cocktail worthy of royalty

Negroni

The first time I experienced the rich, smoky, soothing bliss of a Negroni was at the Ritz in Shanghai.  I was with my sister from Down Under; Melissa.  We were celebrating life, opportunities, happenstance, and raising a toast to the new lawyer in the Cecchini Clan, in absentia.
 
I ordered GlenkinchieBarrister Mark CB's favorite scotch.  Melissa chose the Negroni.  Both were perfect choices for such a quintessential cocktail lounge.  While I was enamored with my choice, I fell in love with hers.
 
My second chance at the Negroni was sometime later.  Same city, same great company, different venue.  Bocca is in a restored factory with a prime location over looking Shanghai's bund.  Stunning arched windows let all that glistens of the city's night sky in.
 
  Campari, Gin, Vermouth - Negroni
Master mixologist, resplendent restaurateur, Florian Graf told us of the Negroni's history.  The drink was named after a Corsican count of the same title.  This dapper gent wanted a little more than the Americano, sweet vermouth and Campari, had to offer. This is Florian's recipe for an amazing cocktail.
 
  • 1 1/2 ounces sweet vermouth or Carpano Antica formula
  • 1 1/2 ounces Campari
  • 1 1/2 ounces gin
  • Orange slice or twist for garnish
 
Add Gin, Campari and Sweet vermouth to a cocktail shaker.  Add a cup of ice.  Shake well.  Add to ice filled cocktail glasses.  Garnish with an orange slice.
 

Cocktails are best when served in good comapny

 
Fabulous cocktails to share with good friends:
 Photo Credit: Julie T Cecchini
 

This is how I keep the cold away; gingery grapefruit gimlet

gingery grapefruit gimlet
I know, you are all sick and tired of this white, fluffy stuff.  I have to admit that I love it and all the outdoor activities it beckons.  That said, on Friday I realized I too am tired of how it makes going about your everyday business a real problem.   What to do?

gingery grapefruit gimlet

This cocktail suggests slowing down with a bit of sunshine is a satisfying solution.

  • 5 tbsp ginger syrup
  • 1 ruby red grapefruit
  • 3 oz vodka (i love using infused thyme vodka with this)

 

Press or squeeze the juice out of the grapefruit.  Pour into a cocktail shaker.  Add ginger syrup, vodka and a couple ice cubes.  Shake vigorously for a couple minutes.  Pour into your glass.  Enjoy by the fire and remember there are times when the snow and cold aren't all bad.

  gingery grapefruit gimlet to enjoy the snow

More great ways to keep the cold away:

 

Photo Credit:  Julie Cecchini

gingery grapefruit gimlet