The Venetian

This is one of my original creations (as far as I know). It's modeled after the Parisian, which is a similar cocktail using gin and dry vermouth. I chose to call it the Venetian because sweet vermouth is sometimes referred to as Italian vermouth. Vodka gives it less of a spicy flavor than gin would, as well.

• 2 measures Vodka
• 1 measure Creme de Cassis
• 1/2 measure sweet vermouth

Shake ingredients with ice, strain into chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with twist of lemon or orange, if desired.