Negroni

A Classic Cocktail with Gin, Campari, and Vermouth

The Negroni is an Italian cocktail that has stood the test of time, with its unique balance of bitterness, sweetness, and botanical complexity. Comprising equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, the Negroni is a beautifully simple yet sophisticated drink. Its vibrant red hue and robust flavor profile play a big part in its iconic status. The Negroni is known as a cocktail that many people new to the world of cocktails don’t like because of its intense bitter flavor, but then becomes among their favorites in time, as their palate develops. The Negroni’s timeless charm and bold taste make it a staple in the world of classic cocktails.

Picture of Negroni cocktail

Ingredients

Gin

We recommend a London Dry but Plymouth works great also.

30 ml

Campari

There is no substitute for Campari in a classic Negroni. While there are other amaro liqueurs that can substitute Campari and make a great cocktail, it is no longer a classic Negroni.

30 ml

Vermouth

The Vermouth is where you get to experiment when making a Negroni. There are so many different and interesting Vermouths on the market. Make sure to use a sweet red vermouth, or else the cocktail might be completely unbalanced, but other than that, there are basically no requirements.

30 ml

Instructions

Combine the ingredients

In a mixing glass (or for an easier version, directly to your serving glass), add gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.

Stir with ice

Add ice to the mixing glass and stir gently for about 20-30 seconds. Stirring chills the drink and dilutes it slightly, which is essential for achieving the right flavor balance.

Strain into a glass

Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice, preferably a single large cube. The large ice cube melts more slowly, keeping the drink cold without overly diluting it.

Garnish

Garnish with an orange peel. Express the oils from the peel over the drink by twisting it gently, then drop it into the glass. The citrus aroma enhances the Negroni’s overall flavor profile.
Picture of Negroni cocktail ingredients

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Ingredient #1

Gin

Beefeater

Beefeater London Dry Gin is an excellent choice for a classic Negroni, offering a well-balanced, juniper-forward flavor.
Ingredient #2

Campari

Campari

Campari is essential to the Negroni’s unique taste and should not be substituted. Its bitter complexity is integral to the cocktail.
Ingredient #3

Vermouth

Dolin Rouge

Dolin Rouge Vermouth brings a rich, spiced flavor that elevates the Negroni, and works wonders in most other cocktails as well.
Ingredient #4

History

The Negroni cocktail traces its origins back to early 20th century Italy. It is widely believed to have been created in 1919 at Caffè Casoni in Florence. Count Camillo Negroni is credited with inventing the drink by asking the bartender, Fosco Scarselli, to strengthen his favorite cocktail, the Americano, by replacing the soda water with gin. The result was named the Negroni in his honor. Over the years, the Negroni gained popularity and became a staple in Italian aperitivo culture. Its straightforward recipe and bold, balanced flavors have earned it a permanent place in cocktail history, and on most bar menus around the world.

Flavor profile

The Negroni is a cocktail of contrasts and harmony, offering a complex interplay of flavors. The gin’s herbal and botanical notes provide a robust base, enhanced by the bitter complexity of the Campari. Campari introduces a deep, bittersweet character with hints of citrus, herbs, and spices, creating a sophisticated bitterness that lingers pleasantly on the palate. Sweet vermouth adds a counterbalancing sweetness with rich, spiced, and slight vanilla undertones. The result is a cocktail that is both bold and balanced, with each ingredient complementing the others perfectly. The Negroni is refreshingly bitter yet sweet, making it an intriguing and satisfying aperitif that prepares the palate for a meal.

Recipe rating
5/5 - (3 votes)

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