Sweet, aromatic, and bubblegum pink, this playful cocktail is the utter definition of fun. Created by bartender Bradleigh Mobley at Bayonet in Birmingham (one of our Best New Restaurants of 2026), the drink calls upon the nostalgia of Nerds candy to create a zippy yet balanced drink that’s undeniably entertaining. Nerds are a four-in-one ingredient, adding not only flavor but additional sweetness, a vibrant color, and a touch of acidity to the syrup. The Italicus (a fragrant Italian liqueur made with bergamots and botanicals, such as chamomile and lavender,) can be swapped out for St-Germain if needed. Read more about Mobley’s nostalgic inspiration for this bright and tangy cocktail here.
Chef’s Note: Make sure to use original Nerds candy (the hard, tiny pebble-like ones) in the syrup. They dissolve quickly and completely, unlike Gummy Clusters.
Check out more clever cocktails here: The Witty Comeback; Paper Fleet (Paper Planes for a Crowd); and Dirty Martini Spritz.
