Elegant, assertive, and undeniably stylish, the Negroni is a cocktail that commands attention. With its equal parts of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, it delivers a perfectly balanced mix of bitterness, sweetness, and botanical complexity. Whether you’re unwinding after work or setting the tone for a sophisticated dinner, the Negroni is a timeless choice.
A Brief History of the Negroni
The Negroni was born in Florence, Italy in 1919, when Count Camillo Negroni asked a bartender to strengthen his usual Americano by replacing the soda water with gin. The result was bold, vibrant, and instantly iconic. Over a century later, the Negroni has earned its place as a staple of cocktail culture, known for its simplicity, balance, and distinctive red hue.
Today, it’s celebrated worldwide during Negroni Week, a global event that raises funds for charitable causes while spotlighting creative twists on the classic recipe.
The Classic Negroni Recipe
This drink is beautifully simple just three ingredients in equal measure.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- Ice
Garnish:
- Orange peel or slice
Instructions:
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
- Stir gently for about 20–30 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice (or serve up in a coupe, if preferred).
- Garnish with a twist of orange peel or a thin orange slice.
Gin and Vermouth Tips
- Gin: A classic London Dry gin offers crisp juniper-forward flavor, while newer, more botanical gins can add complexity.
- Sweet Vermouth: Choose a high-quality vermouth like Carpano Antica or Dolin Rouge to balance the bitterness of Campari.
Negroni Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the original, try these creative takes:
1. Boulevardier
Swap gin for bourbon or rye whiskey for a rich, warming variation.
2. Negroni Sbagliato
Use sparkling wine (like Prosecco) instead of gin. Light, bubbly, and ideal as an aperitif.
3. White Negroni
Replace Campari with Suze or Lillet Blanc, and sweet vermouth with dry vermouth for a lighter, herbal twist.
4. Mezcal Negroni
Substitute gin with mezcal to add a smoky, earthy depth.
5. Coffee Negroni
Add a small splash of cold brew or use a coffee-infused gin for a bold and bittersweet spin.
Glassware and Serving Suggestions
- The Negroni is traditionally served in a rocks glass over a large ice cube, which melts slowly and keeps the drink cold.
- For a more refined presentation, serve it up in a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish matters: express the orange peel over the glass before dropping it in to release aromatic oils that elevate the entire experience.
What makes the Negroni truly remarkable is its balance. Each of the three ingredients plays an equal role, with no single flavor overpowering the others.
Whether you’re new to mixology or a seasoned enthusiast, the Negroni deserves a spot in your repertoire. Stir it up, sit back, and savor the taste of Italian sophistication in a glass.