The Buckley

The Buckley: A Cocktail for Any Occasion

As a busy working mom, finding time for myself is a luxury, not a given. But even amidst the chaos of school pick-ups, work deadlines, and grocery shopping, I’ve discovered that carving out a few minutes for a delicious cocktail can be incredibly restorative. It's not just about the alcohol; it's about the ritual, the quiet moment of pause, the opportunity to savor something beautiful and complex. And The Buckley, oh, The Buckley...it's become my go-to.

I first encountered this sophisticated cocktail while flipping through a food magazine. The elegant description, the promise of a unique flavor profile, immediately captivated me. The recipe, created by a bartender in Nashville, uses Cocchi Aperitivo Americano, an Italian aperitif wine with a wonderful mix of citrus, herbal, and bitter notes. It’s a bit of an adventure to find, but the hunt is part of the fun. I've found it at a few specialty stores, and honestly, the slight challenge only adds to the special occasion feeling. If you have trouble finding it though, don't worry! The recipe suggests Lillet Blanc as a viable substitute, and it works remarkably well.

What makes The Buckley so special is its complexity. It's not just a simple mix of ingredients. The sage simple syrup adds an unexpected, earthy sweetness that complements the gin beautifully. The Cocchi Aperitivo Americano (or its substitute) adds a depth of flavor that's both refreshing and sophisticated. And the final touch of Campari at the bottom of the glass provides a tantalizing bitter note that lingers on the palate. It's a cocktail that's both refreshing and complex, perfect for a quiet evening at home or a celebratory gathering.

Beyond the Taste: A Moment of Mindfulness

For me, making and enjoying The Buckley has become more than just a drink; it's a mini-spa day. The process of muddling the sage, measuring the ingredients, and shaking the cocktail shaker is oddly therapeutic. The rhythmic shaking is a small act of rebellion against the day's demands. The clinking ice in the shaker, the soft scent of sage—these small details create a quiet sanctuary. And the final product, the beautiful, layered drink in a chilled champagne coupe, is a testament to the power of slowing down and appreciating the little moments.

Adapting the Recipe to Your Needs

One of the things I love about this recipe is its flexibility. It's easily adaptable to your own taste and preferences. Want it a little sweeter? Add a touch more sage syrup. Prefer a more pronounced Campari flavor? Add a bit more at the end. The beauty of cocktail creation is that there are no hard and fast rules; experiment and find what works best for you. And don't be afraid to get creative with the garnish. A sprig of rosemary or a thin slice of orange could add a whole new dimension.

So, the next time you find yourself needing a moment of peace, a reward for a long day, or a way to celebrate a small victory, consider making The Buckley. It's a drink that embodies sophistication and simplicity, complexity and ease. It's a taste of luxury that fits perfectly into the everyday rhythm of a busy life. And in that way, it's the perfect cocktail for a modern woman.

The Buckley is more than just a drink; it’s a ritual, a small act of self-care amidst the whirlwind of daily life. It’s a reminder to slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the beauty in the simple things.

Step-by-step

• In a small pot, combine 20 sage leaves, sugar, and 1 cup of water.
• Bring to a boil, then lower heat to moderately low and simmer until aromatic and slightly thickened, about 10 minutes.
• Allow syrup to cool, then pour through a fine-mesh sieve and discard the sage.
• DO AHEAD: The sage simple syrup can be made in advance and stored, in an airtight container in the refrigerator, up to 1 week.
• In a cocktail shaker, combine 3/4 ounce sage simple syrup with the gin, Cocchi Aperitivo Americano, and lime juice.
• Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until completely mixed, about 20 seconds.
• Strain into a chilled champagne coupe, then slowly add the Campari so that it settles at the bottom of the glass.
• Garnish with a fresh sage leaf.