King’s Cobbler

The King’s Cobbler is a bold and bittersweet cocktail that pairs herbal amaro with fresh strawberry and citrus. Lightly shaken for lift and double-strained for a smooth texture, this drink delivers depth and freshness with every sip perfect for slow sipping in warm weather.

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Tasting Notes

Expect layered bitterness from the amaro, which leads with notes of herbs, citrus peel, and subtle spice. The lemon juice brightens the profile with crisp acidity, while the simple syrup smooths the edges without overwhelming the drink. Crushed fresh strawberry adds just enough body and soft fruit flavor, giving the cocktail a gentle sweetness and aromatic lift. Served over ice, the King’s Cobbler is refreshing but bold. The garnish of mint and strawberry enhances both aroma and presentation, making it as enjoyable to smell as it is to sip. Each drink finishes clean, with a lasting herbal note on the palate.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a cocktail shaker for blending and aerating the ingredients properly. A fine mesh strainer is essential for double-straining, ensuring the crushed strawberry pulp doesn’t make its way into the glass. A jigger will help you measure each component accurately. Use a bar spoon or muddler to lightly crush the strawberry before shaking. A chilled rocks glass or cobbler glass works best for serving, as it holds the ice and highlights the garnish. Don’t forget a small paring knife for slicing your garnish and some bar tongs or tweezers to set the mint and strawberry neatly in place.

Ingredients

• 2 oz amaro
• 0.75 oz lemon juice
• 0.75 oz simple syrup
• 1 ripe strawberry, halved
• Garnish: Mint leaves and strawberry

Instructions

• Crush one half of a ripe strawberry in a cocktail shaker.
• Add the amaro, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
• Shake briefly but vigorously to aerate.
• Double-strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves and strawberry.

Pro Tips

• Use a full-flavored amaro like Averna or Montenegro for depth.
• Shake briefly 5 to 7 seconds is enough to aerate without watering it down.
• Double-strain to remove strawberry pulp and seeds.
• Use a ripe, juicy strawberry for the best flavor and color.
• Slap the mint garnish between your palms to release its aroma before adding.
• Pre-chill your glass to keep the drink cold longer.
• Adjust simple syrup based on how bitter your chosen amaro is.

When to Serve

The King’s Cobbler is ideal for spring and summer afternoons, garden parties, and happy hour moments when you want a low-proof cocktail with personality. It works particularly well as an aperitif before a meal thanks to the bitterness of the amaro and the fresh lift of citrus. Serve it at brunch with savory fare, or offer it as a refreshing choice during outdoor events and casual get-togethers. Its approachable bitterness and bright fruit make it a good option for guests who want something interesting yet not overpowering, and it’s an easy conversation starter for any cocktail occasion.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Amaro: Amaro Montenegro, Averna, Amaro Nonino
• Simple Syrup: Homemade (1:1 sugar to water), Liber & Co.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed recommended
• Strawberries: Use peak-season, organic if possible for best flavor

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