Mr. Sanginetti: A specialty cocktail found at Moonrakers Pub, served with tomato, basil, and balsamic vinegar to give you a classier and less spicy version of the classic Bloody Mary.

Primary Alcohol: Gin and Curaçao

My experience of this drink came at one of Iowa City’s oldest gastro-pubs, recommended to me by the bartender as one of his favorite drinks. The part of this drink that really stands out to me is the cut-up pieces of tomato that are put into the drink. I chose this beverage because of the sheer uniqueness of the ingredients. I have yet to have a drink with balsamic vinegar in any kind of drink, alcoholic or otherwise.

Appearance: Blood red with basil leaves distributed throughout, the chunks of tomato offering an interesting textured look.

Taste: The gin and curaçao are deviously hidden by the fresh ingredients of basil and tomato, with the balsamic serving as a flavor enhancer of the vegetable ingredients. The taste is very agreeable, easily turning a first-timer into a regular.

Advice: A great cocktail to sample small plates with a fresh aspect, not so enjoyable with a greasy plate. Mother won’t care, as long as you get your veggie servings.

— by Ben Verhille