Monday, 6 August 2018

Cetriolino ("pickle")

<<you never tasted the "Cetriolino" prepared by Master Mike?!? You do not know what you're missing !!! >>

A resounding chorus of stunned grimaces mocked my gap.

And so, pointing in pride, I decided to try this famous cocktail on the banks of the Strait and to know its equally well-known panormita creator, now firmly established in Messina for decades.

The refined "studio" where Maestro Michele expresses his talent is at the gates of Torre Faro Village, in the Municipality of Messina, and bears the name of the light breeze, which in the summer refreshes the inhabitants of the Strait from the bites of the heat : the Grecale.

The restaurant, led by young and skilled entrepreneurs from Messina, can easily be defined as an emerald set in the string of the Strait coast, pierced by the turquoise rays coming from the mirror of water in front.

So, curious and full of expectations, on a warm summer evening, I found myself accommodated, in a green space, on a sea view sofa, immersed in a magical atmosphere in front of the shimmering lights of the Strait of Messina , cradled by the sweet sound of the waves that leaned slowly on the shore.

Enthusiastic and already enchanted by the location, I finally dedicated myself to the sensorial study of Cetriolino®.

It is a cocktail with a light alcohol base, which can be consumed indifferently before or after dinner (as an aperitif or digestive).

Its presentation is well taken care of and elegant: the drink is served in a crystal "asti" glass goblet that enhances the bright green color of the mixture.

The rim of the cup is sprinkled with a fine bronze-colored powder and a thin slice of cucumber is stuck to the edge for decoration.

The consistency brings to mind the famous Messina granita, even if the drink is slightly more liquid.

Considering that on the composition of the cocktail its creator maintains the maximum discretion (so much so that the ingredients are omitted in the menu), I have entrusted my taste buds with the burden of describing as best as they perceive.

The first sip reveals a mix of fresh and intriguing flavors: the predominant taste of the cucumber centrifuge is well amalgamated with lemon granita, with lime and mint flavor. The presence, on the edge of the cup, of cinnamon powder mixed with salt, gives the drink a spicy note absolutely pleasant and engaging.

The light base of the cocktail, given by the presence of vodka, means that this can also be enjoyed by those who do not like to drink very alcoholic beverages.

The Cetriolino® can definitely be called the summer cocktail par excellence and I do not find it difficult to have it elected as my favorite!

Beware, however, from imitations: around Messina you will find many variations, which have nothing to do with the cocktail prepared by Master Mike the panormita.

Needless to say that, since then, my sensory journey in search of the fifty shades of taste in the Cetriolino ® has been repeated countless times ... creating a sort of real addiction.

Just thinking, right now, I felt like ... and then tonight Cetriolino ® is, in the background the magical frame of the Strait.

Cheers!

LadySyrah

Grecale, Via Canalone 124, Messina

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