History of the Negroni
The Negroni stands as one of the most celebrated and enduring classic cocktails, known for its harmo...
Negroni Cocktail recipe
Cocktail recipe
Rating
4.84 / 5
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You’ll find the Negroni is one of the great Italian aperitivo cocktails: a perfectly balanced, equal-parts mix of gin, Campari,...
... more
You’ll find the Negroni is one of the great Italian aperitivo cocktails: a perfectly balanced, equal-parts mix of gin, Campari, and red vermouth served over ice. Its most repeated origin story places it in early 20th-century Florence, where Count Camillo Negroni is said to have asked for a stronger Americano by swapping soda water for gin. However you trace it, the drink’s enduring appeal is its unapologetic bitterness and its simple, template-like build that has inspired countless riffs.
On the palate, gin brings crisp, botanical lift that cuts through Campari’s firm, bittersweet bite. Red vermouth answers with dark, winey sweetness and gentle spice, smoothing the edges and tying the flavors together. With everything in equal measure, you get a tight push-pull: sweet versus bitter, herbal versus citrusy-botanical, finishing dry and lingering.
Serve it in a lowball over plenty of ice when you want something bracing before dinner, or anytime you’re craving a slow sipper with real structure. It suits drinkers who enjoy bitter flavors and spirit-forward classics, and it’s a reliable choice for relaxed evenings where one well-made drink sets the tone.
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Invented
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1919
Base ingredient
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Gin
Calories
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178 calories
Garnish
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Orange
Alcohol content
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28% | 2.52 units units of alcohol *
Details
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Easy
Classic
Stirred
Cocktail Colin says:
5/5
Gin leads with crisp botanicals that frame Campari’s assertive bitterness, while red vermouth brings dark, winey sweetness to round the edges and linger over ice. The equal parts click because the vermouth’s sweetness cushions the Campari bite as the gin keeps it bright and dry; it’s ideal for bitter-forward drinkers and aperitivo fans.
Method
How to make a Negroni
Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
- Gin 30ml, Campari 30ml, Red vermouth 30ml
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- Add all the ingredients directly into a lowball glass with ice and stir
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- Garnish with an orange slice and serve
Power tips
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Find out more- Consider using a high-quality, barrel-aged gin for a more complex flavor profile. The aged gin’s mellow tones will complement the bitterness of the Campari and the sweetness of the vermouth.
- Before stirring, chill your lowball glass by filling it with ice water. Dump the ice water just before you add the cocktail ingredients to keep the drink cold longer.
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FAQ's
What is the history behind the Negroni cocktail?
The Negroni cocktail is believed to have originated in Florence, Italy, in the early 20th century. It is named after Count Camillo Negroni, who asked his bartender to strengthen his favorite cocktail, the Americano, by replacing the soda water with gin. The bartender also added an orange garnish instead of the typical lemon garnish of the Americano, thus creating the Negroni.
How do you properly serve a Negroni?
A Negroni is traditionally served in a lowball glass over ice. It should be stirred, not shaken, to ensure that the cocktail is chilled without diluting it too much. Garnish with an orange slice or twist to complement the bitter and sweet flavors of the drink.
Can I substitute any ingredients in a Negroni for a different taste?
Yes, while the classic Negroni is made with equal parts gin, Campari, and red vermouth, you can substitute these ingredients to create variations. For instance, substituting bourbon for gin creates a Boulevardier, while using Aperol instead of Campari makes the drink sweeter and less bitter. Replacing the red vermouth with dry vermouth will yield a Negroni Sbagliato.
What food pairs well with a Negroni?
Negronis, with their balance of bitterness, sweetness, and botanical flavors, pair well with a wide range of foods. Appetizers like olives, cheese, and charcuterie complement the cocktail's complexity. It also goes well with savory dishes, such as grilled meats, pasta in rich sauces, and pizza.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of a Negroni?
Yes, to create a non-alcoholic version of a Negroni, substitute the gin with a non-alcoholic spirit, and use non-alcoholic alternatives for Campari and red vermouth. Several brands offer non-alcoholic spirits and aperitifs that mimic the flavors of these ingredients, allowing you to enjoy the classic taste of a Negroni without the alcohol.
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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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