Cocktail of the Week: How to make the Hotel Savoy’s Grand Prix Martini
Smooth and powerful, Florence’s Hotel Savoy has created this seductive little number as an ode to classic cars
The inimitable curves of a Fiat 124 Spider; the seductive purr of a Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo – the list goes on. It’s no secret that Italy has produced many of the most stunning machines ever to grace the tarmac. Like fine wine and good food, Italian classic cars are an integral part of the fabric of la dolce vita.
At Hotel Savoy in Florence, head bartender Denis Giuliani has tried to capture the majesty of Italian supercars in this racy cocktail. A blood red twist on the classic martini, the Savoy’s aptly named Grand Prix cocktail will be flowing this weekend as Formula 1 heads to Monza, near Milan, for the Italian leg of its tour.
Fortunately, if you can’t be in Italy yourself, the Grand Prix martini is simple to make at home. A powerful red vermouth is key: try the original Martini brand Gran Riserva, or Asterly Brothers’ Estate English red vermouth for something a little different. Spiked with herbs and botanicals and presented in a racing red hue, the vermouth is tempered with Italian beer and sweetened with orange juice. A well-balanced drink inspired by one of Florence’s finest hotels, it’s a love letter to Italy and a must-try for car lovers this weekend.
Ingredients (serves one), 45ml Martini Bitter Gran Riserva, 30ml freshly squeezed orange juice, 30ml Nastro Azzurro beer, Sprigs of mint and orange peel to garnish
Method
- Pour the bitter martini Gran Riserva and the fresh squeezed orange juice into a large red wine glass.
- Fill it up with ice cubes and top with Italian Nastro Azzurro beer.
- Stir gently, then garnish with a fresh mint sprig and an orange wheel.
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