Suze

My father and stepmother bought this liqueur while they were on a cruise in France. They learned about it when an inspector arrived by barge to inspect their ship. Officials supplied the inspector with a bottle of Suze while he was writing his report. They passed inspection! In those days, Suze could not be purchased in the U.S, which made it even more desirable.

Suze is made from the root of an herb called gentian that grows in the mountains of Switzerland and France. It tastes sweet, bitter, and citrus-y.

We tried this on the rocks, which is how the French drink it and we both liked it. We also tried this (and liked it too):

White Negroni

In a mixing glass, combine 1 1/2 oz gin, 3/4 oz Suze, and 3/4 oz bianco vermouth. 

Stir with ice and strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.

Garnish with a lemon twist.