Bitter Giuseppe
An amaro-forward stirred cocktail featuring Cynar as the base, accented by vermouth, citrus, and bitters.
- 2 ozcynar
- 1 ozsweet vermouth
- ¼ ozfresh lemon juice
- 6 dashesorange bitters
- Lemon coingarnish
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Stephen Cole created the Bitter Giuseppe at The Violet Hour in Chicago in 2007. The cocktail was revolutionary for placing Cynar—an artichoke-based Italian amaro—in the role typically held by whiskey or gin. Cole's inspiration came from wanting to create a drink that was unabashedly bitter yet still balanced and approachable. The sweet vermouth softens Cynar's vegetal edge while fresh lemon juice and orange bitters enhance its herbaceous qualities. The Bitter Giuseppe has become a template for amaro-forward stirred drinks and helped establish Cynar as an essential backbar ingredient.
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