Martin Desaulniers
2026-03-20T18:21:00-04:00

Whisky Spaghetti Western is a bitter, polished whisky aperitif with Amaro, Aperol, and Passion liqueur, a deeper twist on the classic Spaghetti Western.

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Whisky Spaghetti Western takes the classic aperitivo structure of the Spaghetti Western and shifts it into deeper territory. Where tequila usually brings a sharper, drier edge, Whisky #4 adds more warmth and grain, giving the drink a rounder, duskier profile. Amaro Nonino and Aperol keep the bitter orange line intact, while CIRKA Passion liqueur adds a brighter tropical note that catches the light before the finish turns gently bitter again.

Ingredients

1 oz Whisky #4

0.75 oz Amaro Nonino

0.5 oz Passion liqueur

0.5 oz Aperol

3 dashes orange bitters

Glass: Old Fashioned glass
Garnish: orange twist

How to Make It

1. Add Whisky #4, Amaro Nonino, Passion liqueur, Aperol, and orange bitters to a mixing glass with ice.

2. Stir until well chilled and properly diluted, about 20 to 25 seconds.

3. Strain over fresh ice into an Old Fashioned glass.

4. Garnish with an orange twist.

Pro Tips

Why this build works: replacing tequila with Whisky #4 gives the drink more warmth, more grain, and a softer structure, while still letting the bitter orange profile stay clear. CIRKA Passion liqueur brings a subtle tropical lift that keeps the twist vivid and slightly unexpected.

Keep it cold: this drink works best with proper dilution. Stir long enough to soften the edges and let the amaro open up.

Orange matters: a fresh orange twist sharpens the top note and ties together the Aperol, bitters, and passion liqueur.

Balance the bitterness: if you want it a little drier, pull the Passion liqueur slightly back. If you want it rounder, keep the build exactly as written.