Bufala Negra

A Bufala Negra might be the single best drink I know how to make . . . at least for now. By the time I head back to work, I hope to have expanded my repertoire.  However, I'm skeptical I will make anything better than a Bufala Negra, which contains my favorite spirit, bourbon, but is perfect for my favorite season, summer. A Bufala Negra is the perfect summer drink because the ginger beer and basil make it light and fresh while the bourbon and balsamic vinegar give it a really interesting and deep flavor. Yes, you read that correctly, balsamic vinegar. One additional reason I enjoy Bufala Negras so much is that they are a good reminder that what a drink needs is sour, but not necessarily citrus.

I've seen recipes that call for superfine sugar rather than simple syrup. I almost never use sugar and almost always use simple syrup. Simple syrup is so simple to make (1 part water, 1 part sugar, heat until the sugar dissolves) that I almost always have some on hand in a squirt bottle in my refrigerator. If you need to make simple syrup quickly, you can reduce the water and, once the sugar has dissolved, add the appropriate amount of ice to cool it down or, alternatively, just keep the ratio and use a little less. I also find that sugar doesn't always dissolve completely. Some purists might not approve of my use of simple syrup for cocktails like Mojitos or Mint Juleps. If you prefer sugar I encourage you to use sugar but if you come to my house, you're probably going to get a cocktail made with simple syrup.

Frankly, Bufala Negras are so good I worried by making them this early in my paternity leave I'd be peaking too soon. However, it was my in-laws last day in D.C. and I wanted them to leave on a high note. Their ten-day stay was really great. They cooked, cleaned, and made sure we had time to nap. In exchange, I did my best to make them interesting cocktails every night. I didn't document everything I made, but I think, at the very least, I converted my father-in-law from Miller Lite to gin and tonic, which was a big accomplishment.

L'chaim!

Dad

Bufala Negra

• 5 basil leaves muddle, plus 1 basil leaf for garnish
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• 2 teaspoons simple syrup
• 1 1/2 ounces bourbon
• 2 ounces ginger beer

Muddle basil leaves; add balsamic vinegar, simple syrup, bourbon, and ice; stir; top with ginger beer; garnish with basil leaf.