Italiana Espresso Martini Riff
Photo: John Valls
An extra-rich take on the classic.
“The Italiana cocktail is inspired by an Espresso Martini, with dark, rich, nutty coffee flavors gently sweetened by the chocolate and vanilla of the crème de cacao,” says Ricky Yarnall, bar director at Bestia in Los Angeles.
Ingredients
- 2 oz. vodka
- 3/4 oz. coffee liqueur
- 1/4 oz. dark crème de cacao
- 1/4 oz. amaro (Bestia uses Varnelli Amaro Sibilla)
- Tools:barspoon, strainer
- Glass:cocktail
- Garnish:nutmeg, thickened cream
Preparation
Stir all of the ingredients with ice, then strain into a chilled glass. Carefully float the thickened cream on top of the drink, then grate fresh nutmeg over the top.
Thickened CreamPour 2 1⁄2 oz. of heavy whipping cream into a shaker and shake (without ice) until it’s thickened but still pourable.