The Story Behind The If Pizza Were a Cocktail

Inspired by the Bicicletta, an aperitivo-style cocktail made with white wine, Campari, and soda water, this cocktail builds on the classic with the addition of a split bitter component, and fresh citrus and sweetener to balance. The strawberries and basil serve as the solid elements of the mix which need to be pressed for their flavor, and they create a freshness and depth that elevate the drink making it somewhat romantic.

The smell of the basil is reminiscent of that which lies on top of a Margarita pizza — then, after noticing the tomato sauce-red hue and Italian influence, the realization that this is just pizza in liquid form is evident. It’s the cocktail you want in-hand when the warm weather hits.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup white wine
  • ½ cup Aperol
  • ½ cup Campari
  • ½ cup lemon
  • ¼ sugar syrup
  • Strawberries (quartered)
  • Basil
  • Mineral water

Directions

  1. Add the syrup, 4 strawberries cut in quarters, and a small handful of basil leaves to the French press.
  2. Using a wooden spoon, or muddler, muddle the ingredients together until the juice from the strawberries is released and the mix is fragrant.
  3. Add the rest of the ingredients to the French press, let the mix rest for 1 minute, then press and strain to separate the liquid from the solids.
  4. To serve, strain into a glass over ice, top with a splash of mineral water, and garnish with a basil leaf.

Rate This Recipe:

(4 votes)

Yield: 4-6
Updated: 2020-05-24

The If Pizza Were a Cocktail Recipe