Brooklyn

Originally made with the notorious original Amer Picon, the Brooklyn is really one of the all-timers that has been underrated because one of its main ingredients is now a shadow of itself. One made with the new version is distinctly unmemorable, as the current Amer is a watered down disappointment. Fortunately, we have heroes like David Wondrich who do orange bitters tastings and determine what is the best substitute for the original Amer Picon (which he has tried). The winner was Amaro CioCiaro, and it's pretty delicious.

2 oz Rye
3/4 oz Dry Vermouth
1/4 oz Amaro CioCiaro
1/4 oz Maraschino

Combine all ingredients in an ice filled glass and stir for 30 seconds. Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a maraschino cherry.

Jaguar

One of my favorite bartenders, Tom Schlesinger-Guidelli of Craigie on Main (formerly of Eastern Standard), created this winner in 2007. This is a serious drinker's drink. Don't spring this on your vodka tonic-drinking friend - he'll likely spit it out, and you will have wasted expensive ingredients.

1 1/2 oz Blanco Tequila
3/4 oz Amer Picon*
3/4 oz Green Chartreuse
3 dashes Orange Bitters

Combine in an ice-filled glass and stir for 15-20 seconds. Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a flamed orange peel.

*Amer Picon is very difficult to find. Some recommend the American approximation, Torani Amer. I have never tried the drink with the Torani product, but many who have tried it and the Picon say they are different animals.

Others like Amaro CioCiaro, which is another orange-heavy bitter from Italy.

Enjoy.