Here's a toast to these little wonders, palm sized pocket puzzles that are full of surprises. The cocktail was created by Fransos, a camera operator from Oslo, Norway. He posted it in 2016 on the Kindred Cocktails site, and there is little more to be found about it. It is notable for using a full two ounces of Cynar as the base spirit, and has a little bit of gin in a supporting role. Cynar is a dark and deliciously herbal Italian amaro distinguished by the prominent use of artichoke, which is featured on the bottle label. The amaro does not actually taste like artichokes however, and can be a surprise hit in a cocktail. It’s slightly sweet like many amari, slightly bitter, and very tasty.

It also turns out to pair extremely well with pineapple. The gin really just gives the drink more body and helps it hold up to the sweeteners, which are balanced very well. Overall the drink was really surprising and delicious. Just like these wonderful little puzzle cubes. Cheers!

Little Wonder by Fransos

2 oz Cynar

½ oz gin

¾ oz lime

¾ oz pineapple

½ oz simple syrup

1 dash Angostura bitters

Shake with ice and strain into a favorite glass up, no garnish.

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