Four elements, four cardinal points and four seasons completing a cycle. With this philosophy in mind, Coqtail – for fine drinkers celebrates the release of its fourth edition, choosing The Bvlgari Bar inside the Bvlgari Hotel Milano as its stage. Set for March 11, the event revolves around the art of the Sundowner, the Italian take on aperitivo, in an evening dedicated to refined drinking in one of Milan’s most exclusive locations at Via Privata Fratelli Gabba 7.
Sundowner: A Tribute to the Art of Aperitivo
The fourth edition of Coqtail – for fine drinkers draws inspiration from the Sundowner, a moment that captures the golden hour when the sun dips below the horizon and day surrenders to evening, always accompanied by a cocktail. A ritual deeply rooted in Italian culture, aperitivo is explored in this issue through its many facets—from historic traditions to modern-day creations that elevate the pleasure of drinking and socializing.
A Journey Back to the Roots
Over the past months, Coqtail has journeyed through Italy’s finest mixology destinations: from sun-drenched terraces along the Amalfi Coast to the storied luxury of Aman Venice, from Florence’s rolling hills to the sleek skyscrapers of Turin, with stops in Ischia, Lecce, and Rome—including previous gatherings at Bvlgari Hotel and Nite Kong. Now, for its fourth chapter, the journey returns to Milan, the cradle of this ambitious editorial project, once again setting the stage for an event poised to leave its mark on Italy’s hospitality scene.
An Exceptional Duo on Stage for Coqtail – for fine drinkers
The event unfolds within the elegant spaces of The Bvlgari Bar, a sanctuary of greenery in the heart of the city. For one evening, guests will step into a world of effortless sophistication, surrounded by lush foliage—a hidden oasis in Milan’s urban landscape. The perfect setting to savor the creations of Patrick Greco, bar manager at The Bvlgari Bar Milano, and Erik van Beek, co-founder of Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City, crowned the world’s best cocktail bar in 2024.
The Signature Cocktails of the Evening
Patrick Greco and his team present a liquid expression of Milanese elegance—where precision and refinement meet in perfect harmony. His Coqtail des Fleurs blends Altamura Vodka with a delicate cordial of chamomile, elderflower, and pear, rounded out with fake lime for an aromatic and subtle finish.
Meanwhile, the Grand’Orange takes a bolder approach, combining OF Dorange by Bonollo 1908 with Gamondi Aperitivo Pink Citrus and passion fruit syrup, accentuated by fake lime and a final touch of Tassoni Tonica Superfine, elevating the sensory experience. Both cocktails embody Greco’s philosophy: a balance of high-quality ingredients and impeccably curated flavors. Then there’s Sunrise, a milk punch where Mancino Rosso Vermouth meets chamomile and saffron, brightened by notes of mandarin and lemon.
Joining the lineup are two standout creations by Erik van Beek, each telling a story through its intricate flavors and techniques. The first, Earl Grey, reinterprets a British classic with Tassoni Distilled Dry Gin, lemongrass, bergamot, lime, and Tassoni Soda La Classica. The second, Yuzu Shakerato, delivers a cosmopolitan experience, blending Di Battista Bitter with the exotic notes of yuzu and sake.
Completing the menu are ready-to-drink canned cocktails from Bocktailed and Belline by SeiBellissimi, offering a refreshing touch to the evening’s sophisticated lineup.
Coqtail – for fine drinkers Continues Its Journey
Thanks to the talents of Greco and van Beek, this latest event of Coqtail reaches new heights. The bilingual coffee table book, backed by leading names like Altamura, Bocktailed, Bonollo, Di Battista, Gamondi, SeiBellissimi, Mancino Vermouth, and Tassoni, continues to set the standard for quality. A synergy between creative minds and distinguished brands, culminating in an exclusive, invite-only event that promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Images courtesy of Bvlgari Hotel Milano
