Herbaceous Salers Gentiane is picking up steam. Although only recently appearing behind bars in the U.S., this muted yellow liqueur made of gentian root and white wine has held court with other French aperitifs since the 19th century. When sipped solo and sans ice, Salers runs a bit wild, but its bold, bittersweet flavor hits the mark when gunned with bubbly club soda over rocks and garnished with an orange twist. For a sophisticated spin, stir up a white Negroni using equal parts London Dry-style gin, Punt e Mes and this gentian gem, adding a lemon twist if you wish. Look for Salers at well-stocked area liquor stores.
This article appears in April 2013.