Introduction
The Montenegro Sbagliato is a captivating twist on the classic Sbagliato, bringing a unique bittersweet and herbal flavor profile to the table. By replacing the traditional Campari with Amaro Montenegro, this cocktail offers a softer, more aromatic experience that is both refreshing and complex. It's the perfect drink for those who appreciate a balance of flavors and a touch of sophistication in their glass.
The Sbagliato, meaning 'mistaken' in Italian, was originally created as a happy accident when a bartender in Milan mistakenly used sparkling wine instead of gin in a Negroni. This serendipitous swap resulted in a lighter, effervescent cocktail that quickly became a favorite. The Montenegro Sbagliato takes this concept further by incorporating the rich, herbal notes of Amaro Montenegro, making it an intriguing alternative for cocktail enthusiasts.
Did you know that Amaro Montenegro is named after Princess Elena of Montenegro? This Italian amaro has been crafted with the same secret blend of 40 botanicals since 1885, offering a distinctive flavor that complements the sweetness of vermouth and the effervescence of sparkling wine perfectly.
Ingredients
To create a Montenegro Sbagliato, you'll need a handful of carefully selected ingredients that harmonize beautifully together. Here's what you'll need:
- 1.5 oz Amaro Montenegro: Amaro Montenegro brings a complex blend of sweet, bitter, and herbal notes that elevate the cocktail.
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth: Sweet vermouth adds depth and a touch of sweetness to balance the amaro.
- 1 dash Grapefruit Bitters: Grapefruit bitters introduce a subtle citrusy bitterness that enhances the drink's complexity.
- 2.5 oz Sparkling Wine: Choose a dry sparkling wine to add effervescence and lighten the cocktail.
- 1 Orange Slices: A fresh orange slice for garnish, adding a burst of color and freshness.
- 1 Orange Peel: The orange peel, spritzed over the drink, releases essential oils that enhance the aroma and flavor.
Instructions
Crafting a Montenegro Sbagliato is a straightforward process that delivers a sophisticated result. Follow these simple steps to create your own:
- Combine all ingredients in a wine glass over ice and stir briefly.
- Garnish with a thin half-moon slice of orange and a 3- to 4-inch orange peel, spritzed skin side down over the surface of the drink before being added to the cocktail.
Tips
- For an extra aromatic experience, gently twist the orange peel over the drink before adding it to release more oils.
- Chill your wine glass beforehand to keep your cocktail refreshingly cool.
- Experiment with different types of sparkling wine to find your preferred level of dryness or sweetness.
- If you prefer a slightly stronger drink, reduce the amount of sparkling wine and increase the Amaro Montenegro.
Conclusion
The Montenegro Sbagliato is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the power of high-quality ingredients. Its harmonious blend of bittersweet and herbal flavors, accented by the effervescence of sparkling wine, makes it a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a curious beginner, this drink offers a delightful exploration of taste and aroma.
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Montenegro Sbagliato recipe adapted from Be Your Own Bartender by Carey Jones, John McCarthy and J. Kenji López-Alt.
