Classic Negroni Recipe

History

The Negroni is a timeless Italian cocktail with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Legend has it that the cocktail was created in Florence, Italy, when Count Camillo Negroni requested a stronger version of his favorite Americano cocktail. The bartender replaced the soda water with gin, and thus, the Negroni was born. Since then, this iconic cocktail has become a beloved favorite among cocktail enthusiasts worldwide.

Flavor Profile

The Negroni is a sophisticated and bittersweet cocktail known for its perfect balance of flavors. It features equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, resulting in a complex and harmonious blend of botanicals, herbs, and spices. The gin provides a juniper-forward base, while the Campari adds a bold bitterness and the sweet vermouth brings depth and richness to the drink. Garnished with an orange twist, the Negroni is a timeless classic that excites the palate with every sip.

Variations

• Boulevardier: Substitutes bourbon for gin, creating a richer and more robust variation of the Negroni.
• White Negroni: Replaces Campari with Suze or other herbal liqueurs, resulting in a lighter and more herbal profile.
• Negroni Sbagliato: Swaps gin for sparkling wine or prosecco, creating a refreshing and effervescent twist on the classic recipe.
• Mezcal Negroni: Incorporates smoky mezcal in place of gin, adding a unique and intriguing flavor profile to the cocktail.

Serving Suggestions:

The Negroni is traditionally served in a rocks glass over a large ice cube, allowing the flavors to meld and the drink to chill without becoming diluted too quickly. Garnish with a twist of orange peel, expressing the oils over the surface of the cocktail to release its aromatic essence. Pair the Negroni with savory appetizers such as olives, charcuterie, or bruschetta for a sophisticated and satisfying drinking experience.

Ingredients

• 1 oz gin
• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• Orange twist for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
3. Stir well until thoroughly chilled.
4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with a large ice cube.
5. Garnish with an orange twist.
6. Serve and enjoy your classic Negroni!

The Negroni’s history, flavor profile, variations, and serving suggestions make it a captivating and versatile cocktail that appeals to a wide range of palates. Cheers to discovering this timeless classic!