Cocktails
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[Photograph: Autumn Giles]

Cynar is a perfect stand-in for Fernet Branca, another darling of the amari, in a Toronto cocktail. Like Fernet, the bitter, vegetal taste of Cynar is a perfect foil for the sweet rye. I used Rittenhouse Rye 100 proof here, which is an affordable and good (but not too good to mix) rye.

Note: To make simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar in a small saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar is dissolved. Cool before using. Simple syrup will keep in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

About the Author: Autumn Giles is a writer in Queens, NY. You can see her work on Autumn Makes & Does, listen to her talk on the Alphabet Soup Podcast, and talk at her on twitter.

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Ingredients

  • 4 ounces rye
  • 1 1/2 ounces Cynar
  • 2 teaspoons simple syrup (see note above)
  • 4 dashes Angostura bitters

Procedures

  1. Add rye, Cynar, simple syrup, and bitters to a cocktail shaker and fill with ice. Shake until well chilled, about 20 seconds. Strain into two coupe glasses and serve immediately.