Directions
The Cynarius cocktail was born after several attempts to use the artichoke as an ingredient for an aperitif that could be refreshing, but also dry and arrogant.
The ingredients of the Cynarius cocktail are quite common, tequila, ginger beer, lime, a spoonful of liqueur/licorice syrup and a little more artichoke liqueur. The sprinkling of nutmeg does nothing but enhance the aromas of the artichoke, adding a suggestion
We also tried a bitter and an artichoke syrup, but the final result was lacking, lacking in personality. If, on the other hand, you have the patience to find or make a good artichoke liqueur with your own hands, the cocktail will be much more full-bodied, rich and multifaceted and not just sketchy. Many fear the artichoke and trivially add it only as a flavoring when instead a good artichoke liqueur can easily support all the aromatic structure of a cocktail. Of course, as long as it’s not too alcoholic and pasty. Let’s say that all you have to do is dilute it by expanding its taste boundaries, so look for a dark and intense liqueur.
As a distillate, we have chosen tequila for its aromatic power, for its freshness and that balsamic touch. Rum would be out of place for lack of assonance, gin too resinous, vodka might go, but it wouldn’t add anything but warmth. Mescal is a tempting alternative and if you like a smoky touch it’s even better than tequila.
Ingredients and doses to make the Cynarius cocktail
- 3 cl of tequila or mezcal
- 1 cl of artichoke liqueur
- 1 tablespoon of licorice liqueur or licorice syrup
- a very light sprinkling of nutmeg
- 1 cl of lime
- 10 cl of ginger beer
- lemon peel
How to make the Cynarius cocktail
Squeeze half a lime and strain the juice.
Fill a glass with ice, pour the artichoke liqueur, tequila, licorice, lime, grate a small pinch of nutmeg on the spot and mix gently. Add the ginger beer, squeeze the lemon peel over the cocktail and let it fall inside.
If you like the lashing and cheeky taste of artichoke, this is the cocktail for you.
Other great cocktails to try as an aperitif
Negroni, Mojito, Moscow Mule, Gin & Tonic, Dark and Stormy, Daiquiri, Margarita, Spritz, Hugo, Old Fashioned, Manhattan.
