Classic Negroni
The classic negroni is a staple in Italian culture, born in the early 20th century. It is well-loved for its refreshing bitterness and uncomplicated charm. It features equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth,
The tale of the Negroni’s creation can be traced back to Caffè Casoni in Florence. While there’s no official record of who crafted it, those passionate about cocktails generally accept that Count Camillo Negroni crafted this iconic drink.
It’s a strong drink that takes an acquired taste.
Ingredients
Find the ingredient amounts for this classic Negroni recipe written in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post. Here is a rundown of what you will need.
- Good London Dry Gin. This is a high-quality gin that is infused with botanical flavors through re-distillation. The main flavor in this gin comes from juniper, and there are no artificial colors or flavors added.
- Campari. Use your favorite variety.
- Sweet Vermouth. This has as a warmer feel than dry Vermouth.
- Orange peel. Used for garnish.
- Ice cubes.
See the recipe card for quantities.
Equipment
- Old Fashioned glass
- Bar spoon
- Cocktail jigger or measuring cup
Instructions
Making a classic negroni is a straightforward and easy, yet every sip promises a burst of strong, complex flavors.
Using your cocktail jigger, measure out equal parts Campari, gin, and sweet vermouth in a cocktail shaker or mixing glass.
Give it a good stir to ensure it’s well mixed.
Add a large ice cube to an old-fashioned glass and pour over the mixture.
Garnish with a strip of orange peel. It brings a delightful aroma to the drink and adds a splash of color.
Variations
The are many Negroni variations:
- Boulevardier: A Negroni with a whiskey twist. In this version, bourbon is used instead of gin. This makes for a richer, more robust cocktail.
- White Negroni: This version uses Lillet Blanc (a sweet white wine) and Suze (a gentian-based bitters) in place of sweet vermouth and Campari. The gin remains, making this a lighter, more floral cocktail.
- Aperol Negroni – Aperol is not quite as bitter as Campari and makes a great subsitute.
- Cardinale: This variant swaps out the type of vermouth for dry vermouth, leading to a lighter and drier Negroni.
- Americano Cocktail: This is a milder version of the Negroni, replacing the gin with club soda.
- Old Pal: This is a drier version of the Negroni. It uses dry vermouth and rye whiskey instead of sweet vermouth and gin.
- Negroni Sbagliato: This variation replaces gin with sparkling wine or Prosecco. “Sbagliato” means “mistaken” in Italian, as the cocktail was reportedly created when a bartender accidentally used sparkling wine instead of gin.
- Cherry Negroni: Some sweet vermouth is replaced with cherry liqueur for a fruity twist.
Final thoughts
The journey to crafting the perfect Negroni is a thrilling exploration of bold flavors. This classic cocktail, with its unique combination of bitterness and sweetness, often becomes a favorite for those who appreciate its complexity.
It’s a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the power of a balanced mix. So, here’s to discovering and delighting in your new favorite cocktail – the Negroni.
More cocktail recipes
For more delicious cocktails, try these recipes
- Bourbon apple cocktail
- Elderflower gin sour
- Blushin Russian cocktail
- Cherry gin sour
- Ginger gimlet
- Salty dog cocktail
- Ginger beer paloma
Classic Negroni
The classic negroni features gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. It's the perfect sipper for a cold evening.
Ingredients
- 1 oz / 30ml London Dry Gin
- 1 oz / 30ml Campari
- 1 oz / 30ml Sweet Vermouth
- Ice cubes
- Orange peel for garnish
Instructions
- Measure out equal parts Campari, gin, and sweet vermouth in a cocktail shaker or mixing glass.
- Give it a good stir to ensure it's well-mixed.
- Add a large ice cube to an old-fashioned glass and strain over the mixture.
- Garnish with a strip of orange peel.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
1Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 191Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 3mgCarbohydrates: 12gFiber: 0gSugar: 10gProtein: 0g
