As a bartender, I've come across a lot of different ingredients in my time. Some are commonplace, like gin or vodka, while others are more obscure, like Caperitif.
Caperitif is a versatile and unique ingredient that's been around for over a century, but it's only recently been rediscovered by mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts.
Caperitif is a wine-based aperitif that's infused with a blend of botanicals, including South African fynbos, citrus peel, and quinine. It was first produced in the late 19th century in South Africa and was a popular ingredient in cocktails during the early 20th century.
However, it fell out of favor and was discontinued in the 1970s. Fortunately, a small team of enthusiasts decided to revive Caperitif in 2016, and it's now available for bartenders and home mixologists to experiment with.
Caperitif has a complex flavor profile that's both sweet and bitter, making it a perfect ingredient for a wide range of cocktails.
It pairs well with gin, vodka, and other spirits, and it can be used to add depth and complexity to classic cocktails like the Martini or the Negroni. It's also a great ingredient for creating new and innovative cocktails that showcase its unique flavor.
In this blog post, I'll be sharing some of the best Caperitif cocktail recipes that I've come across during my time as a bartender. These recipes are easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or a cocktail enthusiast, I'm sure you'll find something here to inspire you. So, grab a bottle of Caperitif, and let's get started!
1. Lillet French Aperitif With an Orange Twist
The Lillet French Aperitif with an Orange Twist is a refreshing and simple cocktail made with Lillet, an aperitif wine from Bordeaux grapes and macerated fruit liqueurs.
It has a pleasantly fruity and not overly sweet taste, with a citrusy note from the orange twist. Perfect for a French-themed meal or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and sophisticated drink.
2. The Queen's Dubonnet Cocktail
"The Queen's Dubonnet Cocktail" is a classic drink that has been enjoyed by the Queen of England for years. This cocktail is a combination of Dubonnet, a sweet fortified wine aperitif made with herbs and spices, and gin. The drink is stirred and strained and served with a lemon wedge and ice cubes.
The result is a slightly sweet, herbal, and bitter drink that is perfect as a pre-meal sipper. This cocktail is easy to make and is perfect for a watch party or any occasion where you want to feel like royalty. If you're a fan of English dramas like The Crown or Victoria, this drink is a must-try.
3. Cranberry Orange Aperol Spritz
The Cranberry Orange Aperol Spritz is a refreshing and festive cocktail that is perfect for the winter season. This Italian-inspired drink is made with Aperol liquor, Prosecco, cranberry juice, and a splash of sparkling water. The addition of cranberry and orange juice gives it a sweet and tangy flavor that is perfectly balanced by the dryness of the Aperol and the bubbles from the Prosecco.
The cocktail is garnished with a sprig of rosemary and fresh cranberries, making it a beautiful and festive drink to serve at any holiday party. If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for the winter season, the Cranberry Orange Aperol Spritz is definitely worth a try.
4. Frothy Aperol Sour
The Frothy Aperol Sour is a versatile and refreshing cocktail that combines Aperol's slightly bittersweet orange and rhubarb flavors with blood orange, lemon juice, and a frothy egg white. The egg white creates a beautiful creamy, white foam on top of the cocktail that has a silky texture.
This cocktail is perfect for every occasion from the hot summer holidays to the cozy winter holidays, like Christmas and New Year's. The combination of Aperol, blood orange, and lemon juice creates a unique and refreshing beverage that is perfect for those who enjoy sour drink recipes. If you are looking for a cocktail that is both delicious and visually stunning, the Frothy Aperol Sour is definitely worth a try.
5. Gordon's Pink Gin Spritz
The Gordon's Pink Gin Spritz is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Made with Gordon's Pink Gin, this cocktail has a beautiful pink hue that is sure to impress your guests. The addition of lemonade and prosecco gives it a light and bubbly taste, while fresh strawberries add a touch of sweetness.
This cocktail is perfect for those who love a little fizz in their drinks and want to try something new. So, if you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that is sure to impress, give the Gordon's Pink Gin Spritz a try!
6. Gin Fizz
The Gin Fizz is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Made with gin, fresh lemon juice, sugar syrup, and soda water, it is a refreshing and frothy drink that is perfect for any occasion. The addition of egg white gives it a smooth mouthfeel and a foamy top.
The cocktail has a rich history and was a popular hangover cure from the late 19th century to the mid-2000s. It is a must-try for any gin lover and is sure to impress with its simplicity and elegance. So, if you're looking for a classic cocktail that is easy to make and delicious to drink, give the Gin Fizz a try.
