Grapefruit Bitters

Halve the grapefruit. Juice one half, reserve the juice, and discard the rind. Coarsely chop the remaining half (pulp and rind) and reserve.

Combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves, and let syrup simmer until it thickens slightly, about 2 minutes. Add chopped grapefruit and cook until the grapefruit releases all its juice, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

Combine cooled grapefruit syrup (including chopped fruit), reserved grapefruit juice, Campari, vodka, and sweet vermouth in a large container with a tightfitting lid. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate at least 1 hour before using.

These homemade bitters from author and former Gramercy Tavern managing partner Nick Mautone, combine grapefruit with Campari, vodka, and vermouth for a sweet, tart, and very bitter concoction. Try it with sparkling wine in Nick’s Sparkling Campari Cocktail.

Game plan: These bitters will last up to 1 month when refrigerated in an airtight container.

This recipe was featured as part of our Bringing Bitters Back project. | by Nick Mautone