As we begin our farewell to The Local Issue, there is one last hurrah we wanted to share- a twist on my favourite ever cocktail, the negroni!

There is something epic about a negroni, it hits you in the face and it has, as we say in our house “bags of flavour”. The bitter orange, the sweetness of the vermouth and the herbal flavour of your own favourite gin. So today? Instead of the classic Campari and vermouth blend, we’re turning this one Aussie!

Australian distiller Applewood Distillery have taken the challenge on with Okar, their own Australian native-inspired bitter. Meet Okar, this is a blend of riberries, Davidson plum and strawberry gum leaf, and it’s deliciously herbal and so different to Campari while honouring its bitter, citrusy core.

Next up, switch your vermouth for an Aussie brand – Maidenii is my pick, made in Victoria, and is my fan favourite. As for the gin? Well take your pick, Australian distillers have plenty to choose from (and I have plenty to recommend, too long for here, if I am honest!).

The Australian negroni is just the ticket for your Aussie wedding, cocktails on arrival to get the party started anyone?

Ingredients

  • 30ml Okar
  • 30ml sweet vermouth (Maidenii)
  • 30ml gin
  • Orange
  • Ice

Method

  1. In a cocktail shaker, add ice, Okar, sweet vermouth and gin. Stir until cold.
  2. In a glass, add fresh ice, and pour your chilled cocktail over top.
  3. Garnish with an orange twist.