The Lil' Ripper Is the Spritz You Shouldn't Live Without

The Little Ripper is one of my go-to summer cocktails. Despite how easy it is to make, most bartenders don't know about it. created by Alex Delany, a "Friend of the Program" and former editor at Bon Appétit, this drink is light, refreshing, and tastes a lot like a Coca Cola. It's perfect before and after a meal on a sweltering day. A spritz with just the right amount of bite, it's hard to stop at just one, and its low alcohol content means you don't have to. 

Lil' Ripper Ingredients

• 3 oz. Soda Water
• 2 oz. Amaro
• Fresh Lemon Juice
• Strip of Lemon Peel and Green Olive for garnish.

How To Make A Lil' Ripper

1. Fill a highball glass to the top with large ice chips.
2. Add soda water, then amaro.
3. Top off with a squeeze of lemon juice and give it a quick stir.
4. Garnish with a strip of lemon peel and an olive. 

While many types of liqueurs fall under the amaro umbrello, this cocktail wants something dark and sweet. Cynar, Averna, or Meletti, are all recommended by Delenay. Switch them out and see which suits your taste best. 

Lil' Ripper Riff

For a slightly different take, try using a light citrusy amaro like Campari or even Aperol and garnish with an orange slice. This gives the cocktail a brighter, fruitier profile while keeping it just as refreshing and rip-able.