It’s Dutch! Isn’t that weird?

Sorry, I couldn't resist the Austin Powers quote, for the record there isn't anything weird about the Dutch. This is my second, and last, submission to the Home Bar Awards finals,  and I wanted to do something different. The concept was to make a drink that didn't look like a traditional amaro cocktail. While researching different types of bitters my ever helpful husband suggested Cloosterbitter, a herbal bitter from Holland. It has a beautiful green color, and is similar to Green Chartreuse. Since Cloosterbitter is so drinkable I thought  I would  stay true the classic Americano specs and pair it with a vermouth. With its mild licorice flavor, it has more of a mint and ginger kick, I wanted to pair it with something fresh, and since citrus juice is out I substituted with lime bitters and dry vermouth for a little acidity. The final result is a bright and herbal cocktail that is totally refreshing.

Lekker-icano
1 1/2 oz. Cloosterbitter
1 1/2 oz. Dolin Dry Vermouth
2 dashes Scrappy’s lime bitters
2 oz. Topo Chico / club soda

Crack several pieces of ice for your mixing glass. Combine all ingredients, except the club soda, in the mixing glass and store until chilled. Strain into a high ball glass filled with ice. Placing a bar spoon into the glass, pour the club soda down the shaft of the spoon dispersing it throughout the drink, give it a gentle stir. Garnish with a round of lime peel. 

Cheers!