The Soft Bitterness

A cocktail that hints at a sophisticated blend of flavors, balancing the rich, plum-infused depth of Balkia with the sweet sharpness of grenadine syrup and the unique, bitter-sweet profile of Chinotto. This drink is an exploration of contrasts, where sweetness and bitterness dance in harmony.

Here’s how to craft this intriguing concoction:

Ingredients

6 cl Balkia
1 cl Grenadine syrup
12 cl Chinotto

How to make

Chill Your Glass: A highball glass is ideal for “The Soft Bitterness,” offering enough space to accommodate the layers of flavor. Chill the glass to ensure a refreshingly cool sip.
Combine Balkia and Grenadine Syrup: Pour 6cl of Balkia into the chilled glass, laying down a fruit-forward base with a rich aroma. Add 1cl of grenadine syrup for a touch of sweetness and a vibrant color that beautifully contrasts the deep tones of Balkia.
Add Chinotto: Top off the mixture with 12cl of Chinotto. This Italian soft drink, known for its dark, bittersweet flavor derived from the Chinotto citrus fruit, adds a complex and refreshing edge to the cocktail.
Stir Gently: Stir the mixture gently to integrate the Balkia, grenadine syrup, and Chinotto. The aim is to marry the flavors while preserving the effervescence of the Chinotto.
Add Ice: Fill the glass with ice cubes. The ice not only keeps the drink cold but also slightly dilutes the mixture, softening the intensity of the flavors for a more harmonious sip.
Garnish (Optional): Garnish with a slice of orange or a cherry to complement the drink’s bittersweet profile and add a dash of color.
Enjoy: Savor “The Soft Bitterness,” a cocktail that invites you to ponder the delicate balance between sweet and bitter, offering a taste experience that’s both complex and refreshing.