All She Wrote

All She Wrote: A Cocktail Recipe for the Ages

As a busy professional, my evenings are a precious commodity. I don't have the time, or frankly, the energy, for elaborate cocktail rituals every time I want to unwind. That's why I'm obsessed with batch cocktails. They allow me to create delicious, sophisticated drinks in advance, minimizing fuss and maximizing enjoyment. This recipe, All She Wrote, is a perfect example.

I discovered this gem in a fantastic cocktail book and immediately fell in love. The combination of Punt e Mes, a bittersweet Italian vermouth, with maraschino and grapefruit liqueurs is nothing short of magical. It's complex yet approachable, bold yet surprisingly smooth, and the perfect balance of sweet and bitter. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its taste but also in its practicality. Prepare it ahead of time and simply chill, shaking things up when guests arrive. It's perfect for impromptu gatherings or quiet evenings spent reading a book. A little bit of preparation turns into significant reward.

The initial investment in the unusual ingredients is worth it. Punt e Mes, with its unique herbal and spicy notes, is the star of the show. But don't underestimate the other players; the maraschino liqueur adds a touch of sweetness and cherry complexity, while the pamplemousse (grapefruit) liqueur brings a refreshing citrusy tang. The final sprinkle of sea salt elevates the experience even further, balancing and brightening the overall flavor profile. The recipe even suggests leaving out the bitters when making a larger batch that will be stored for over a few weeks, ensuring that you will always have a delicious cocktail on hand.

This recipe has become my go-to drink for any occasion. Whether I'm entertaining friends, celebrating a successful week at the office, or simply treating myself after a long day, All She Wrote never fails to impress. It's sophisticated enough for a special occasion, yet easy enough for a weeknight indulgence. Plus, the gorgeous colour is perfect for any Instagram post.

Making a big batch means less work for me as I'm already juggling so many responsibilities as a working woman. The preparation is minimal, and the reward is huge. Imagine: a beautifully balanced, delicious cocktail already made and waiting in the refrigerator, a constant source of sophistication and indulgence ready for any occasion. And that's more than a few extra minutes I get to enjoy some me time, doing something I enjoy.

So, gather your ingredients, take some time for yourself, and try making this batch cocktail. You won't be disappointed. I'm already planning my next batch—perhaps I will make a double batch so I can enjoy the fruits of my labour for even longer.

Ingredients to consider purchasing:

• Punt e Mes (Italian bittersweet vermouth)
• Dolin Dry Vermouth
• Maraschino Liqueur
• Pamplemousse (Grapefruit) Liqueur
• Peychaud's Bitters
• Flaky Sea Salt

Remember, while this recipe is delicious as is, it’s always enjoyable to experiment. Feel free to adjust the ratios of the liqueurs to suit your personal preferences. And don't be afraid to try different bitters—perhaps a dash of orange bitters for an added layer of complexity. There's a whole world of flavors to explore when you start making your own cocktails.

Cheers to the sophisticated simplicity of batch cocktails. They're a perfect match for the busy life of a working woman.

Step-by-step

• At least 2 hours before serving, make the batch.
• Use a small funnel to pour Punt e Mes, dry vermouth, maraschino liqueur, pamplemousse liqueur, and bitters into a 1-liter swing-top bottle.
• Seal well, gently turn to mix, and refrigerate.
• To serve, turn bottle gently end over end to mix.
• Place a large ice cube in each rocks glass, then pour in cocktail.
• Give each drink one gentle stir before serving.
• Garnish with a small pinch of salt.