Left Hand cocktail in a tumbler over ice with a cocktail cherry

Cocktail

Left Hand

How to make a Left Hand - the modern Negroni variation of bourbon, Campari, sweet vermouth and chocolate bitters. Velvety, bitter and with a fine cacao note.

4 minPrep time
easyDifficulty
TumblerGlass
1Serving(s)

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The Left Hand is an elegant variation of the Boulevardier and thus a bourbon Negroni with a twist. The added chocolate bitters connect the bitterness of the Campari with the rye of the bourbon into a surprisingly velvety cacao note.

Instructions

  1. Fill a tumbler with ice cubes.
  2. Add bourbon, Campari and sweet vermouth in equal parts.
  3. Add the chocolate bitters.
  4. Stir cold with the bar spoon for about 20 seconds.
  5. Drop in a cocktail cherry and serve.

Garnish: Cocktail cherry

Pro tip: Stir long enough - the chocolate bitters need a little dilution so the cacao note integrates gently.

Frequently asked questions

What sets the Left Hand apart from the Boulevardier?

The decisive difference is the chocolate bitters: they give the bourbon Negroni a velvety cacao note.

Who invented the Left Hand?

The drink was created in 2009 by Sam Ross at the New York bar Milk and Honey.

Which bourbon works best?

A robust, spicy bourbon with a high rye content holds up well against Campari and vermouth.

Ingredients

  • Bourbon whiskey3 cl
  • Campari3 cl
  • Sweet vermouth (Vermouth Rosso)3 cl
  • Chocolate bitters2 dashes
  • Cocktail cherry1 piece
  • Ice cubesas needed