Negroni

The Negroni is one of my favorite classic cocktails—bold, bitter, and beautifully balanced. Made with just three ingredients in equal parts, it’s a drink that delivers complexity and elegance in every sip. Whether I’m serving it as a pre-dinner aperitif or enjoying it on a quiet evening, the Negroni never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple yet sophisticated this cocktail is. It doesn’t require any fancy equipment, and the flavors are perfectly balanced—herbal from the vermouth, bitter from the Campari, and strong from the gin. It’s a timeless recipe that I can easily personalize with different gins or garnishes, making it a staple in my home bar.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Gin
• Campari
• Sweet vermouth
• Orange slice or twist (for garnish)
• Ice cubes

Directions

1. I start by filling a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice.
2. I pour in equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
3. I stir the mixture well for about 20–30 seconds until it’s chilled.
4. I strain it into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
5. I garnish with an orange slice or twist, which adds a lovely citrus aroma.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 serving and takes about 5 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy cocktail that I can mix up any time.

Variations

• I sometimes swap gin for bourbon to make a Boulevardier, a warmer and smoother version.
• For a lighter twist, I use Prosecco instead of gin to make a Negroni Sbagliato.
• I like experimenting with different gins to change the botanical profile.
• Adding a splash of soda water gives it a more refreshing, spritz-like character.

Storage/Reheating

I don’t usually store mixed Negronis since it’s best enjoyed fresh, but if I need to prep ahead, I mix the ingredients without ice and keep it sealed in the fridge for up to 2 days. I just stir it with fresh ice and garnish when ready to serve. This cocktail is served cold and should never be reheated.

FAQs

Can I make a Negroni in a batch?

Yes, I mix equal parts of the ingredients and store them in a sealed bottle in the fridge. It’s great for parties or dinner gatherings.

What type of gin works best?

I prefer a London Dry gin for its clean, juniper-forward profile, but I sometimes use more botanical gins for variety.

What’s the best glass to serve it in?

I always serve a Negroni in a lowball or rocks glass over ice, which helps mellow the bold flavors as it chills.

Should I shake or stir the Negroni?

Stirring is the way to go. Shaking dilutes it too much and can make the drink cloudy. I stir it gently with ice to keep it smooth and balanced.

Conclusion

The Negroni is a cocktail I keep returning to—simple, elegant, and full of flavor. With just a few ingredients and a quick stir, I can create a drink that’s both timeless and deeply satisfying. Whether I’m winding down solo or toasting with friends, a Negroni always feels like the perfect choice.

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