The Bitter Giuseppe cocktail was created by Stephen Cole, a bartender at The Violet Hour in Chicago. It is a variation of the classic Negroni, but with the addition of Cynar, an Italian bitter liqueur made from artichokes. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy bitter and herbal flavors, and it has become a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts.
- The Bitter Giuseppe was first created in the early 2000s
- It is often enjoyed as an aperitif before a meal
- The cocktail is named after Giuseppe Cipriani, the founder of the famous Harry's Bar in Venice, Italy
The Bitter Giuseppe is a complex and bitter cocktail with herbal and earthy notes. It has a slightly sweet and citrusy undertone, with a rich and velvety texture. The bitterness is balanced by the sweetness of the vermouth and the orange twist garnish.
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Honeyed Giuseppe
Replacing simple syrup with honey syrup, this twist introduces a floral sweetness that complements the herbal Cynar. Serve it in a chilled glass to enhance the smoothness.
Ingredients:
- Cynar: 1.5 oz
- Sweet Vermouth: 1 oz
- Lemon Juice: 0.5 oz
- Orange Bitters: 2 dashes
- Honey Syrup: 0.25 oz
- Lemon Twist: 1 for garnish
Recipe:
Stir the Cynar, sweet vermouth, lemon juice, orange bitters, and honey syrup in a mixing glass with ice. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with a lemon twist.
Spiced Giuseppe
Add a hint of spice by introducing a small amount of ginger syrup. This adds a warm, spicy kick that contrasts delightfully with the bitterness of Cynar.
Ingredients:
- Cynar: 1.5 oz
- Sweet Vermouth: 1 oz
- Lemon Juice: 0.5 oz
- Orange Bitters: 2 dashes
- Ginger Syrup: 0.25 oz
- Candied Ginger: 1 piece for garnish
Recipe:
Mix the Cynar, sweet vermouth, lemon juice, orange bitters, and ginger syrup over ice. Strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice. Garnish with a piece of candied ginger.
Rosy Giuseppe
A floral note and a blush of color come into play when you add a splash of rose water and use a rose petal for garnish. It’s a delicate balance that’s perfect for a spring evening.
Ingredients:
- Cynar: 1.5 oz
- Sweet Vermouth: 1 oz
- Lemon Juice: 0.5 oz
- Orange Bitters: 2 dashes
- Simple Syrup: 0.25 oz
- Rose Water: A splash
- Rose Petal: 1 for garnish
Recipe:
Combine Cynar, sweet vermouth, lemon juice, orange bitters, simple syrup, and a splash of rose water in a mixing glass with ice. Stir well, strain into a rocks glass over ice, and garnish with a rose petal.
Can I use any other garnish besides the orange twist for the Bitter Giuseppe?
Yes, while the orange twist is traditional, you can experiment with other types of citrus like grapefruit or even aromatics like rosemary.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Bitter Giuseppe?
You can make a mocktail version by using non-alcoholic substitutes for the alcohols, like non-alcoholic sweet vermouth and non-alcoholic bitter liqueur. Lemon juice, orange bitters and syrup can remain the same.
What kind of food pairs well with a Bitter Giuseppe?
Given its Italian origins and bitter profile, the Bitter Giuseppe pairs well with rich pasta dishes, hearty meats, and strong cheeses.
Why is the cocktail named after Giuseppe Cipriani?
While the cocktail is only suggestively named after him, Giuseppe Cipriani was a well-known figure in the cocktail world, having founded the famous Harry's Bar in Venice, Italy.