Things to know about the popular aperitivo
Quick facts
- The Negroni is a cocktail based on gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari
- Classic mixing ratio: 1:1:1
- Garnished with half an orange slice or an orange twist
- Invented in 1919 in Florence by the Italian Count Camillo Luigi Negroni
What is a Negroni?
The Negroni is a classic Italian aperitif based on gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari. The drink is not for the faint of heart—the tart and potent blend of three spirits packs a punch. The perfect balance of ingredients determines the drinking experience. The bar scene agrees: less is more.
History of the Negroni
Florence, 1919: Count Camillo Luigi Negroni was sitting in his favorite bar (Caffè Casoni) and wanted his usual Americano (Campari, vermouth, soda) to have a bit more kick. The bartender, Fosco Scarselli, replaced the soda with gin—and thus the Negroni was born. Garnished with an orange slice instead of lemon, it became the Count's signature drink.
Ingredients and preparation
Classic recipe:
- 3 cl London Dry Gin
- 3 cl Sweet Vermouth (e.g., Cinzano Rosso, Carpano Antica Formula)
- 3 cl Campari
- Garnish: Orange twist or half an orange slice
Preparation: Stir all ingredients well in a mixing glass with ice (do not shake!). Strain into a pre-chilled tumbler over a large ice cube. Garnish with orange.
Negroni variations
- Negroni Sbagliato: Gin is replaced by Prosecco—lighter and sparkling
- White Negroni: With Suze or Cocchi Americano instead of Campari—lighter in color and herbaceous
- Boulevardier: Bourbon instead of gin—fuller-bodied and sweeter
- Old Pal: With rye whiskey and dry vermouth
Which gin works best?
A classic London Dry Gin with a clear juniper note is the ideal base—it stands up to the bitterness of the Campari and the sweetness of the vermouth. More aromatic New Western gins can also work, but result in a less classic Negroni.
