Translated from French, a "boulevardier" is a man-about-town, a bon-vivant, literally a "man who frequents the boulevards". The creation of the cocktail is attributed to Erskine Gwynne, the publisher of “Boulevardier,” a magazine for expats living in Paris in the 1920s. Generally considered to be the cool-weather cousin of the Gin-based Negroni, the Boulevardier is made with either Rye whiskey or Bourbon and Sweet Vermouth. The third ingredient, Campari or Aperol is often interchanged. My version uses Bourbon and the slightly more bitter Campari with the addition of a couple of dashes of Orange Bitters to maintain the orange note in the drink. For those who tire of drinking straight Bourbon, Rye, or Scotch, this cocktail is a welcome alternative. Santé!

Boulevardier
Serves 1

Ingredients:

• 1.5 ounces Bourbon (or Rye)

• 1 ounce Campari

• 1 ounce Sweet Vermouth

• 2 or 3 dashes of Orange Bitters

• orange twist

Preparation:

1. Add the ingredients to a mixing glass or shaker with ice and stir until well chilled.

2. Strain into a Coup straight-up or on the rocks with fresh ice in a Manhattan glass.

3. Garnish with an orange twist.

Enjoy!