"phony Negroni" Recipe

Prepare glass and ice

Fill a short (rocks) glass with large ice cubes and set aside to chill while you build the drink. If you prefer, chill the glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes instead.

Build the Phony Negroni

In a mixing glass or shaker filled halfway with ice, pour 2 fl oz non-alcoholic gin substitute, 1 fl oz non-alcoholic bitter aperitif, and 1 fl oz non-alcoholic sweet vermouth substitute. If using orange bitters, add 2 dashes. If you prefer a slightly sweeter profile, add 0.25 fl oz simple syrup. Stir the mixture briskly for 20–30 seconds until well chilled and slightly diluted.

Strain and serve

Discard the chilling ice from the prepared rocks glass and add 1–2 large fresh ice cubes. Strain the chilled cocktail into the glass over the large ice cube(s).

Garnish

Take the orange peel and express the oils over the drink by holding it skin-side down above the glass and giving it a firm twist; rub the peel around the rim and drop it into the drink as a garnish.

If the drink tastes too bitter, add another 0.25 fl oz simple syrup and stir once to combine. If it lacks depth, a single additional dash of non-alcoholic orange bitters will round the flavors. Serve immediately while cold.

For a more aromatic experience, flame the orange peel briefly (carefully) before expressing oils — hold a lit match or lighter briefly near the peel and then squeeze away from you so the oil flashes. Do this only if comfortable and cautious with open flame.