Negroni
Ingredients
Tap the ingredients you have on hand
- 1 oz gin≈ $1.30
- 1 oz Campari≈ $1.30
- 1 oz sweet vermouth≈ $1.30
- orange peel≈ $0.70
Prices are rough US grocery estimates per ingredient and may vary by store and season.
Instructions
- 1
Combine gin, Campari and vermouth in a mixing glass with ice.
- 2
Stir 20 seconds until chilled.
- 3
Strain over a large ice cube; garnish with orange peel.
About this recipe
Experience a true Italian icon with this classic cocktail. The Negroni offers a perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and botanical notes, making it a sophisticated choice for aperitivo hour or any time you crave a refreshing yet complex drink. Its vibrant ruby hue and invigorating flavor profile make it a delightful pre-dinner sipper or a chic accompaniment to appetizers, an effortless way to elevate a casual evening into something special. This timeless concoction is remarkably simple to prepare, requiring just three key ingredients in equal measure, ensuring a consistent and delicious result every time. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet moment, learning how to make a classic Negroni is a skill that will serve you well, offering a taste of Milanese elegance in under five minutes.
The story behind it
The Negroni's storied past dates back to Florence, Italy, around 1919. Legend has it that Count Camillo Negroni asked his bartender, Fosco Scarselli, to strengthen his favorite Americano cocktail by replacing the soda water with gin. This bold request led to the creation of what quickly became one of the world's most enduring and beloved cocktails, a testament to simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony, a true Italian classic.
Chef's tips
- 1Always use a fresh, high-quality orange peel for garnishing, expressing its oils over the drink before dropping it in.
- 2Chill all your ingredients thoroughly before mixing to ensure a colder, less diluted final cocktail.
- 3Stir the drink for at least 20-30 seconds with plenty of ice to achieve proper dilution and chill.
- 4Invest in good quality vermouth, as its flavor greatly impacts the overall balance of the drink.
- 5Consider making a large batch ahead of time and chilling it in the freezer for effortless entertaining.
Ways to make it your own
Combine the ingredients in a sealed glass bottle and let it age in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks for a smoother, more integrated flavor.
Substitute the gin with sparkling wine or Prosecco for a lighter, effervescent, and lower-ABV version.
Swap Campari for Suze or another gentian liqueur and the sweet vermouth for Lillet Blanc or dry vermouth for a lighter, herbal profile.
Replace gin with an equal part of smoky Mezcal for a complex, earthy, and aromatic twist on the classic.
Frequently asked
What is the best type of gin for a classic Negroni?+
A London Dry Gin with prominent juniper and citrus notes works best, as its robust flavor stands up well to the Campari and vermouth.
Can I use a different type of bitter liqueur instead of Campari?+
While Campari is traditional, you can experiment with other Italian bitter liqueurs like Aperol for a sweeter, less intense drink, or even Cynar for an artichoke-based bitterness.
Why is my Negroni too bitter?+
It might be under-diluted or you might be sensitive to Campari; ensure you stir with plenty of ice and consider adjusting the vermouth ratio slightly upwards to balance the bitterness.
How do you properly garnish a Negroni?+
Use a fresh orange peel, express its oils over the drink by twisting it, then either drop it into the glass or drape it over the rim.
Is sweet vermouth the only option for a Negroni?+
Yes, traditional Negronis always use sweet red vermouth; dry vermouth would fundamentally change the drink's balance and create a different cocktail altogether.