I’m not the only writer in my family. In fact, I married a man who loves to write, eat and drink as much as I do, and this summer, he published his first novel, A Bullet Apiece. To commemorate this momentous occasion, I created a cocktail for his book release party.
In addition to Bulleit bourbon (of course), it had to have a St. Louis connection. Enter The Big O ginger liqueur, which has its roots in St. Louis, and pairs wonderfully with bourbon. I added Campari to break up the sweetness and add some color, while the hints of honey and lemon juice complement the ginger and balance the bitter aperitif. Like its namesake, this cocktail hits you hard and fast – and is just a little dangerous.
A Bulleit Apiece 1 serving
1 oz. Bulleit bourbon
1 oz. The Big O ginger liqueur
½ oz. Campari
½ oz. lemon juice
¼ oz. honey
1 lemon twist for garnish (optional)
• Combine the bourbon, ginger liqueur, Campari, lemon juice and honey in a cocktail shaker filled with ice and shake hard. Strain in a rocks glass filled with fresh ice and garnish with a lemon twist, if desired.
This article appears in September 2015.