The Negroni is a classic Italian aperitif cocktail, known for its bold harmony of bitter and sweet flavors. It’s the perfect choice for those who appreciate a punchy, characterful drink to kick off a meal. A long-standing favorite among gourmets, the Negroni has earned its place among the all-time cocktail greats.
History
The Negroni first appeared in Florence in the 1920s, when Count Camillo Negroni asked his favorite bar, Caffè Casoni, to enhance his usual Americano cocktail by replacing the soda water with gin. As a result, the drink gained a stronger character and a more refined balance. The bold new flavor impressed guests, so it quickly caught on among locals. Eventually, people started calling it by the Count’s name, and the Negroni became a true Florentine favorite.
Ingredients
1 oz (30 ml) gin
1 oz (30 ml) red vermouth
1 oz (30 ml) Campari
How to Make a Negroni Cocktail
The Negroni is incredibly simple to prepare. Fill a mixing glass with ice and add the gin, vermouth, and Campari. After that, stir for about 20–30 seconds to chill the drink thoroughly and blend the flavors completely. Strain into an old fashioned glass.
Serving and Garnish
The Negroni is typically served in an old fashioned glass, often over a single large ice cube. Garnish with a slice of orange or a spiral of orange peel placed on the rim. Never substitute lemon for the orange—it changes the drink’s intended flavor profile.
Calorie Content
A single serving of a Negroni cocktail contains around 180 calories, depending mainly on the type of vermouth used.