The Marriage of Figaro was created by Judy Bronson (Cocktations blog)and has been chosen as the best cocktail submitted in the September, 2011 infusions cocktail contest here on About.com.

The beauty of this drink is Bronson's use of fig-infused bourbon and I have to say it is spectacular, a natural flavor pairing that you'll find has uses in other cocktails - think of spicing up favorites like the Manhattan with this infusion. Beyond the infusion itself, The Marriage of Figaro contains a complex and rich blend of flavor. You may be tempted to use any amaro (i.e. Averna) here but I highly recommend holding out for her suggestion of Cardamaro because it includes cardoon (artichoke-like) and blessed thistle and tends to be less bitter than other options.

Enjoy The Marriage of Figaro and use it as an inspiration in your own cocktail creations. Read Bronson's original recipe and thoughts here and more commentary on the contest here.

See Also

Alice Paul Cocktail

The Swafford Cocktail

Fall Spice Cordial

Ingredients

• 1 oz Fig-Infused Four Roses Bourbon*
• 1 oz Four Roses Bourbon
• 1 oz Cardamaro
• 1 barspoon St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram
• Lemon twist for garnish

• Prep Time: 3 minutes

• Total Time: 3 minutes
• Yield: 1 Cocktail

Preparation

1. Stir all ingredients in a mixing glass filled with ice.
2. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
3. Garnish with a lemon twist.

*Fig-infused Bourbon:

1. Begin with a 750 mL bottle of Four Roses yellow label bourbon.
2. Pour the bourbon into a large glass jar.
3. Add 1/8 lb. of diced, dried Turkish (flat yellow) figs and 1/4 lb. of diced, dried Mission (black) figs. (More about figs)
4. Close the jar tightly, and allow the infusion to rest in a cool, dark place for 5-7 days, agitating the mixture every 24 hours.

1. Strain the infusion first through a fine mesh strainer, then through a cheese cloth, pouring the strained liquor back into the original bottle.
2. The infused bourbon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.

Find flavor pairings for fig...