The Underrated Low-ABV Cocktail To Try For A Complex Citrus Sip

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There's something inherently fun about ordering cocktails. From the inventive flavor combinations and garnishes to the quirky names or even just watching the bartender make them, it can feel like more of an event than a drink. The issue is that all that liquor can quickly add up, meaning cocktails aren't always the sensible choice. To enjoy that complexity of flavor typical of the cocktail experience without the repercussions, try a low-ABV drink like the Bitter Giuseppe. 

With a combination of Cynar and vermouth, the Bitter Giuseppe is certainly no mocktail, but it's also only about as strong as fortified wine. These two ingredients are key to the adult flavors in a Bitter Guiseppe. Cynar is an Italian amaro that's usually served as a digestif. It's made from artichokes and adds a unique, herbal, bittersweet taste to the cocktail. Vermouth adds depth and sweetness with its aromatic and fruity flavors, while the inclusion of fresh lemon balances the bitterness with fresh acidity. The final touch is orange bitters that layer citrus and bitterness for more complexity. The result is a surprisingly refreshing cocktail that's perfect as an aperitif. It's also an ideal drink for anyone who doesn't like their cocktails too sweet, without going for something as bitter or alcoholic as a negroni.

With Italian ingredients and a name like Bitter Giuseppe, you might think this is one of the classic Italian cocktails. In fact, it's the 2007 creation of Stephen Cole, who tended the bar at The Violet Hour in Chicago. As such, the original recipe is well documented. Into a mixing glass with ice, add 2 ounces of Cynar, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth (Cole calls for Carpano Antica Formula), 1/4 ounce of fresh lemon juice, and 6 dashes of orange bitters. Stir until chilled, then pour into a chilled old fashioned glass over a large ice cube and garnish with a lemon twist.

It's a simple recipe but one that became an instant classic, increasing the popularity of Cynar as a cocktail base and of other low-ABV cocktails. Variations on the drink began to pop up in other American bars including renditions like the Search for Delicious Cocktail by Kirk Estopinal, which swaps sweet vermouth for Punt e Mes and adds a pinch of salt. The Salty Stephen from Ludlow Liquors, instead skips the lemon and bitters, but amps up the alcohol with bourbon and adds a few drops of saline solution to bring all the flavors together.