Limoncello Negroni

By-the-books Negroni lovers will probably cringe at this variation on the classic (our apologies to Fosco Scarselli, the creator of the Negroni who is probably turning over in his grave), but we assure you it’s just as bitter and delectable as the original. Made with vodka instead of gin and limoncello in lieu of sweet vermouth, this lighter twist on the Negroni has a bright burst of citrus. A dash of orange bitters and a bar spoonful of St-Germain give the cocktail the bittersweet heft it needs to stay true to its roots, along with a nouveau floral edge. Served over crushed ice, the Limoncello Negroni evokes the feeling of sun-drenched days spent drinking in the Mediterranean. Although we recommend making your own limoncello (it’s the true Italian way), you can easily buy a small batch, craft limoncello. Two amazing limoncellos that you can buy right now are Caravella, from Italy’s Amalfi Coast, and Don Ciccio & Figli, which is made in Washington D.C.