Need to dial back your alcohol consumption post holidays? Try the Abruzzo, a refreshing low proof cocktail, featuring Punt y Mes vermouth, created by Bar Tonique General Manager Mark Schettler. Mark is a fan of sipping vermouth when he doesn’t want to be too intoxicated. Bar Tonique features an entire page of non-alcoholic drinks, but Mark can also mix up delicious, low proof options for patrons who don’t want to give up alcohol entirely.
As Mark notes, “What kind of bartender am I if the only way I can make an enjoyable drink is to use something 80 proof or more?” Mark kept busy last year, representing the bartending community on coronavirus-focused committees with the City of New Orleans and working with Tulane Medical School to create a business pledge for COVID-19 safety. He’s doing his part to keep New Orleanians safe and happy on both sides of the bar.
The Abruzzo
- 2 oz. Punt y Mes Vermouth
- ¾ oz. pineapple syrup
- ¾ oz. lime juice
- 2 ½ oz. club soda
- 6-8 leaves mint plus sprig for garnish
- Collins Glass
1. Place pineapple syrup and mint in glass and muddle gently, add lime juice, vermouth and club soda.
2. Stir thoroughly with a bar spoon to incorporate mint leaves throughout the glass.
3. Top with ice and garnish with mint sprig.
TIPS
Try not to tear mint leaves. Tiny pieces of mint can end up in your teeth.
You can substitute another vermouth, but make sure it has some bitterness to balance the sweetness of the syrups.
Pineapple syrup is available online. Or you can infuse the vermouth with fresh pineapple for 3-4 days. Another use for pineapple syrup is in a Pisco Punch or to replace simple syrup in a classic daiquiri.
PODCAST
Listen to Elizabeth’s podcast “drink & learn;” visit elizabeth-pearce.com