Sake-It to Me Cocktail | John Cusimano

"This is basically a sake Negroni," says John. A classic Negroni is made with gin, vermouth and Campari. Here, he uses sake, gin, Lillet Blanc (like vermouth, it's a fortified wine, but a little softer and sweeter) and Aperol, a lighter version of Campari. To play off the citrus notes in the Aperol, he garnishes the cocktail with an orange twist.  

John notes that a great thing about this drink, which he created to go with Rach's 5-Spice Chicken Teriyaki, is that you can build it right in the glass—you don't need a shaker. Just pour, stir and enjoy! 

Pro Tip from John: There are many types of sake, but I like a dry and crisp one, especially for this drink. 

For more Negroni inspiration from John, check out his Negronatini and Blood Orange Negroni.