![Golden Sunset Cocktail](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.foodandwine.com/thmb/hjiWIsBjearYDRQbIknGtWH2xvg=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Golden-Sunset-Cocktail-FT-MAG-RECIPE-0724-ed9e985632df4d07a7064db8b401e57b.jpg)
Greg Dupree / Food Styling by Julian Hensarling / Prop Styling by Julia Bayless
The Golden Sunset Spritz is citrusy and herbaceous cocktail created by Pierre-Alexis Mengual, head sommelier at renowned French wine brand Gérard Bertrand. It provides just enough bitterness to leave you wanting another sip, and is the perfect way to kick off cocktail parties.
This sunny spritz is made with Italicus bergamot liqueur, which gets infused with cardamom pods. The result is a bright, warming liqueur with balanced floral notes. This infusion is then blended with fruity orange wine and tonic to create a golden-hued cocktail that evokes summer days.
Since the Italicus is infused in advance, this is a great recipe to scale up for a crowd. To make a larger batch of infused liqueur, use a whole bottle of Italicus and 15 cardamom pods. Once the pods are strained out, the liqueur will last for up to six months when stored in in the bottle in a cool, dry place.
Add a splash of any leftover infused liqueur in a Gin & Tonic or sip it in a simple highball made with club soda.
Ingredients
Infused Italicus
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6 green cardamom pods
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8 ounces bergamot liqueur (such as Italicus)
Golden Sunset Sprtiz
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3 1/2 ounces orange wine (such as Gerard Bertrand Orange Gold)
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1 1/2 ounces infused Italicus
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2 ounces tonic water
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1 orange slice, for garnish
Directions
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Lightly crush 5 cardamom pods. Combine crushed cardamom and bergamot liqueur in an airtight container, and let stand at room temperature for 4 days.
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To make a spritz Combine orange wine and 1 1/2 ounces cardamom-infused liqueur in a large wine glass; add tonic, and stir.
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Top with ice and garnish with remaining cardamom pod and an orange slice.