Campari (a bitter citrus apéritif) takes a trip to the Caribbean in this recipe for Dunderstruck, from Matthew Roedel at The Public House in in Bay City, Michigan. It’s an inventive berry-flavored riff on the always-charming Jungle Bird, so it’s easy to love.
Campari and strawberry are natural partners, and the addition of rum and pineapple gives that classic pairing a tropical flair. A finishing touch of absinthe softens the bitter edge of Campari, making the whole drink more complex and magical. Roedel calls for Two James Doctor Bird, a funky aged Jamaican rum.
You could use Aperol if Campari or similar brands are too bitter for you, but even a strident Campari-hater really ought to try it as written once; the bitter flavor comes through, but is infinitely sweeter and softer than, say, a Negroni.
