The Little Red Dress takes its inspiration from the timeless Negroni, a cocktail I adore for its bold character. However, the Negroni’s bitterness can be a hurdle for some. This version softens that edge while maintaining its elegance and complexity. The key lies in using red raspberry-infused gin, which adds a vibrant fruity depth, and swapping the traditional Campari for the stunning crimson Americano Rosso aperitivo. This substitution keeps the drink aromatic and bittersweet but with a more approachable profile. A splash of cranberry juice and a touch of sweet vermouth complete the mix, creating a lightly tart, perfectly balanced gin cocktail.
I serve it over ice in a frozen rocks glass to keep it refreshingly crisp, garnished with a twist of lemon peel to introduce a subtle citrus note. The result is a cocktail that shines as a pre-dinner delight, setting the tone for a memorable meal. Yet, it’s equally enjoyable at any time, whether you’re unwinding after a long day or celebrating with friends.
But beware—its smooth, easy-drinking nature can be deceptive. The Little Red Dress is as captivating as it is irresistible, so pace yourself as you savor its charm. Print
Little Red Dress
Raspberry infused Gin with Vino Aperitivo Americano Rosso, Cranberry and Vermouth
- Cook Time: 5
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 1x
Ingredients
- 1–1/2 oz raspberry infused gin
- 1 oz Vino Aperitivo Americano Rosso
- 3/4 oz 100% cranberry juice
- 1/4 oz sweet vermouth
- Lemon Peel
Instructions
- Infuse the gin (recipe below)
- Freeze a single rocks glass with ice cubes in it
- Combine the gin, aperitivo, cranberry juice and vermouth in a mixing glass
- Stir, then pour over ice in the frozen rocks glass and garnish with lemon peel
House made raspberry infused gin is essential. Follow the recipe below and consult my Guide to Infusing Spirits for more information. Print
Raspberry Infused Gin
Gin, Infused with fresh Raspberry and Sugar
- Prep Time: 20
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 15 oz 1x
Ingredients
- 16 oz London Dry Gin
- 6–7 oz fresh raspberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Place the raspberries in a quart mason jar and gently bruise them with a muddler
- Add the sugar, then fill the jar with gin and tightly cap it
- Shake and turn it to begin dissolving the sugar
- Let it set overnight in a dark place
- Shake the jar after the first and second days to fully dissolve the sugar and to help the raspberry flavor infuse the gin
- After three days, when it has achieved a beautiful pink color, strain out the gin, bottle and refrigerate until ready to use