The Bar Journal

This modern classic is the creation of Giuseppe Gallo, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of ‘Tales of the Cocktail®’ held here at the iconic Hotel Monteleone.

Giuseppe took inspiration from Antonio Monteleone’s journey from his homeland, Sicily, to ‘the land of opportunity’, specifically the French Quarter to create this historic hotel in the heart of New Orleans.

We begin with a Cognac base as a nod of respect to the cultural past of New Orleans and indeed the French Quarter.

The French who originally colonised Louisiana, brought with them their love of Cognac and as a result the classic cocktails created in New Orleans in the 19th century, the Sazeracs, Crustas, etc. include this key ingredient.

For the vermouth modifier it could only be Martini Rosato Vermouth, for the specific reason that today, all vermouths within the industry are made with a white wine base, contrary to the past where most vermouths were made with red wine. The unique red wine make up of Martini Rosato Vermouth along with its hints of spice and fruit add the perfect level of complexity to this retrospective drink.

Averna, a bitter with Sicilian blood in its veins, pays homage to Antonio Monteloene’s roots bringing herbal and citrus tones to the mix.

These three classic ingredients are mixed over ice and gently stirred together. Served over carved ice in a rocks glass, with a generous lemon peel zest.

A final dash of New Orleans’ own, Herbsaint, toasts the ‘Big Easy’ city!

SALUTE!

GIUSEPPE GALLO