Introduction
The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail that has been enjoyed for over 100 years. It’s a perfect balance of bittersweet flavors that makes it a great aperitif to enjoy before a meal or as a refreshing drink on a warm summer evening. The drink is made from just three ingredients - gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari - but the combination of flavors is what makes it so special. In this post, we’ll take you through the steps to make a perfect Negroni at home.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make one serving of Negroni:
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz Campari
- Orange peel
- Ice
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add the gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari to the mixing glass.
- Stir the ingredients for about 20-30 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a strip of orange peel.
Variations
There are several variations of the Negroni that you can try. Here are a few suggestions:
- Boulevardier: Swap out the gin for bourbon to create a richer, more complex drink.
- White Negroni: Replace the Campari with Suze (a French bitter liqueur) and the sweet vermouth with dry vermouth for a lighter, more herbal drink.
- Negroni Sbagliato: Substitute the gin with sparkling wine for a bubbly twist on the classic.
Conclusion
The Negroni is a classic cocktail that is easy to make and sure to please. Whether you’re a fan of bitter drinks or just looking for something new to try, the Negroni is a must-try. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be able to whip up this Italian classic in no time. Cheers!
FAQ
What is a Negroni?
A Negroni is a classic cocktail made with equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, garnished with an orange peel.
What is the history of the Negroni?
The Negroni was invented in Florence, Italy in 1919, when Count Camillo Negroni asked his bartender to make him a stronger version of his favorite cocktail, the Americano.
What type of gin should I use for a Negroni?
You can use any type of gin for a Negroni, but London Dry gin is the most commonly used. Be sure to choose a high-quality gin that you enjoy drinking on its own.
What type of vermouth should I use for a Negroni?
You can use either sweet or dry vermouth for a Negroni, but the most traditional recipe calls for sweet vermouth. Again, choose a high-quality vermouth that you enjoy drinking on its own.
What type of Campari should I use for a Negroni?
You should use regular Campari for a Negroni, unless you prefer a less bitter cocktail, in which case you can use a lower-proof version like Campari Aperitivo.
How do I make a Negroni?
To make a Negroni, combine equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir until well chilled, then strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange peel.
Can I make a Negroni without Campari?
No, Campari is a key ingredient in a Negroni, and cannot be substituted with another spirit.
Can I make a Negroni without vermouth?
No, vermouth is a key ingredient in a Negroni, and cannot be substituted with another spirit.
Can I make a Negroni with vodka instead of gin?
Technically yes, but it will no longer be a Negroni. A Negroni is a gin-based cocktail, and substituting vodka will result in a different drink.
How do I store the ingredients for a Negroni?
Gin and vermouth should be stored in a cool, dark place, while Campari should be stored at room temperature. Once opened, vermouth should be refrigerated and used within a few weeks.
