Cardamaro Creates the Perfect Fall Shine
Many people like to drink hot alcohol in cold weather, but I am not that type. When I warm up in a thick fluffy sweater, I sweat – and start to panic – which is why I keep cocktails cold and greedy, no matter the weather.
The syringe may sound like summer, but if you achieve a specific flavor profile, even the fizzy cocktails can be autumn or even winter. For a flawless fall throw, you’ll need some cardamaro. Despite what its name might suggest, the vermouth-like liquor lacks the flavor of cardamom. It is made with cardon and blissful thistle, two relatives of artichokes, which give the Muscato-based aperitif an earthy forest flavor. If you’ve ever tried Cynar and thought, “I almost like it,” you will most likely love Cardamaro and its slightly syrupy dried fruit sensibility. Mix it with apple white wine and high quality ginger beer for the most autumnal shine. To make it you will need:
- 2 ounces chilled white wine (look for one that tastes like “green apple”)
- 1 ounce cardamaro
- 2 ounces chilled ginger beer
Add the first two ingredients to a large ice cube lowball (or a handful of small cubes) and stir a little. Add ginger beer, stir lightly again and garnish with an apple slice if you feel unwell. Devour and repeat as needed.