Cocktail

This cocktail is named after the brand of amaro, or bitters, that we use to make it. You could use another bitters if you can’t find Meletti.

I don’t rent out my house in Italy but I do let friends stay there. The “rent” that I charge is always the same: one book and one DVD. Our collection of both is pretty random, but thankfully someone at some time thought to bring the movie Il Postino, one of my all-time favorites.

To make a traditional Bloody Mary cocktail, substitute ripe red tomatoes for the yellow ones.

Like the original, our julep features bourbon infused with mint. But this drink’s signature sweetness is tempered by the tartness of blackberries, which also tint it a gorgeous shade of purple. Another twist: Our cocktail is blended with—rather than served over—ice, creating a slushy texture.

Cachaça is a potent sugarcane liquor. If you can’t find it, use light rum instead.