The Va Napoli: Dan'S Open Bar

• 4 oz. vodka (we love Eight Degrees from Holland)
• 1/2 oz. of C&L Cristiani Sambuca (or Molinari whichever you prefer)
• 1 oz. dry vermouth
• a few small wedges of fresh fennel
• high-quality black licorice
• ice cubes
• medium size shaker
• classic martini glass
• dirty ice (on the side if desired)

1. Using a cutting board, cut the fennel wedges into thin strips and do the same with the black licorice. Tie the fennel strips together with pieces of the black licorice and place into your martini glass or glasses.
2. Add ice to your shaker and add in the vodka, vermouth and the Sambuca and shake vigorously until ice cold.
3. Place your fennel and licorice strips into a martini glass and strain your liquids into the glass.
4. Place your dirty ice in a short glass, add to your drink as desired and enjoy.
5. Note: A bit of magic occurs as this drink soaks into the fresh fennel and licorice strips pickling them with the deliciously wicked flavors of vodka and sambuca... a perk we enjoyed with some caution as they were quite strong.

vodka, fresh fennel, black licorice, shaker, glass

Taken from food52.com/recipes/30790-the-va-napoli-dan-s-open-bar (may not work)