Barsys
The Scarlet Sazerac
About
The Scarlet Sazerac cocktail is a softer, more approachable take on a bitter-forward build. Instead of leaning dark or intense, this version keeps things light, silky, and gently warming. Ketel One vodka provides a clean backbone, Aperol brings orange and rhubarb bitterness, and a small touch of apple juice smooths the edges with a subtle, nectar-like sweetness.
This is not a sharp or aggressive cocktail. It’s rounded, calm, and easy to enjoy, especially when you want something spirit-forward without heaviness. Served over rocks with a simple lemon peel, the Scarlet Sazerac feels refined but relaxed. It works well as a pre-dinner drink or an early-evening sipper when you want bitterness without bite.
Shaken or Stirred? Stirred. Stirring keeps the texture smooth and the balance intact
What You'll Need
For one Scarlet Sazerac Cocktail:
- 1.5 oz Ketel One vodka
- 0.75 oz Aperol
- 0.25 oz Apple juice
- 0.5 oz Cranberry Juice
- Ice Cubes
Glass: Rocks glass
Garnish: Expressed lemon peel
Pro Tip: Keep the apple juice minimal - it’s there for texture, not sweetness.
How to Make It
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Skill Level: Easy
- Add vodka, Aperol, Cranberry Juice and Apple juice to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir gently until well chilled and fully combined.
- Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Express a lemon peel over the glass and drop it in.
Using Barsys Cocktail Machine?
Barsys 360 Cocktail Machine works beautifully for stirred drinks like the Scarlet Sazerac cocktail. Load the vodka and Aperol, let Barsys handle precise pours, then add apple juice and stir. The balance stays clean and consistent every time.
For the full recipe, download the Barsys App.
Tasting Notes
The Barsys Edge
With only three ingredients, small changes can throw the drink off. Barsys ensures the Aperol stays bright and the apple stays subtle, keeping the Scarlet Sazerac cocktail smooth and balanced.
Sip Setting
Ideal for early evenings, before dinner, or anytime you want a calm, spirit-forward drink that doesn’t feel heavy.
Garnish Game
A single lemon peel is all you need. Express it well to lift the aromatics, then keep the presentation clean and understated.
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FAQs
What is the Scarlet Sazerac cocktail?
It’s a vodka-based, bittersweet cocktail made with Aperol and a touch of apple juice for smoothness.
Is this drink strong?
It’s spirit-forward but soft, thanks to the Aperol and apple juice.
Is it very sweet?
No. The sweetness is subtle and mostly textural.
Can I batch this cocktail?
Yes. Stir a larger batch and keep chilled, then pour over ice to serve
Is this similar to a Negroni?
Not quite. It’s lighter, lower-proof, and cleaner, with vodka instead of gin.