EE didn’t used to like Negronis. I think the Campari was a bit strong (it can be an acquired taste).  I ended up creating this drink for EE as something that is simple to make, but that has a pretty complex taste.

Ingredients

1 Gin (typically Sapphire)

0.9 Aperol

0.7 Cointreau

The absurd measurements above are not because the drink requires that much precision.  I’m just saying:

As much gin as you want

A little less Aperol than gin

A little less Cointreau than Aperol

Combine in a shaker and shake!  May be served up or on the rocks.

Problem: bars don’t have Aperol.

Solution: substitute Campari.

Ingredients (BAR VERSION)

1 gin

1 Campari

1 Cointreau

When out on the town, transform the drink a bit by asking for equal parts gin, Campari, and Cointreau.  The Campari is more bitter, but the extra Cointreau counteracts it.  Overtime, people who started out disliking Campari will grow to enjoy it.  At that point they will be ready for the Negroni – a classic so spectacular everyone should be able to enjoy one.