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Classic Italian Negroni

The Negroni is an iconic Italian aperitivo born in Florence in 1919 when Count Camillo Negroni asked for gin instead of soda in his Americano. Its perfect balance of botanical gin, bitter-sweet Campari and rich sweet vermouth has made it a global classic. Every sip delivers a tapestry of flavor: bright herbal notes from the gin intertwine with Campari’s unmistakable orange-peel bitterness, while vermouth’s subtle vanilla and spice round out the finish. Traditionally served over a single large ice cube, the Negroni chills slowly to temper its strength and encourage gradual dilution, releasing citrus oils from a freshly twisted orange peel. This three-ingredient masterpiece speaks to the Italian art of aperitivo: a moment of relaxed elegance before dinner, designed to awaken the palate. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening, mastering the Negroni unlocks one of mixology’s most enduring rituals.

Beverage | Italian | Dairy-Free | Egg-Free | Gluten-Free | Nut-Free | Shellfish-Free | Soy-Free | Vegan | Negroni | Bar Spoon | Mixing Glass | Rocks Glass | Sieve | Campari | Gin | Orange | Vermouth | Stirring | Straining | Aperitif | Summer | Under 15 Minutes
Time to complete

Prep

2min

Cook

0 minutes

Wait

0 minutes

Total

2min

Ingredients (Makes 1 cocktail)

Ingredients

  • 1 ounce (30 ml) gin
  • 1 ounce (30 ml) Campari
  • 1 ounce (30 ml) sweet vermouth

For Serving/Garnishing

  • Orange peel
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 214
  • Fat: 0
  • Protein: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 20
  • Fiber: 0
Directions

Chill Glass & Ice

  • 1. Fill a mixing glass with ice and let it sit while you measure the spirits to pre-chill.

Build the Negroni

  • 2. Pour gin, Campari and sweet vermouth into the ice-filled mixing glass.

Stir to Chill

  • 3. Gently stir with a bar spoon for about 20–30 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled and slightly diluted.

Strain & Serve

  • 4. Strain into a rocks glass over a single large ice cube.

Garnish

  • 5. Express oils from the orange peel over the surface, rub around the rim, then drop peel into the glass.
Cookix's Secrets

Bold Bitter

  • Swap Campari for Cynar artichoke liqueur for a richer, earthier bitterness.

Garnish

  • Twist the peel low over the glass to release a fine mist of oils before adding it.

Herbal Upgrade

  • Infuse your gin with fresh rosemary or basil for an aromatic lift.

Ice Quality

  • Use large, clear ice cubes to slow dilution and maintain a crisp temperature.

Low-ABV Option

  • Use 2 oz (60 ml) sweet vermouth and 1 oz (30 ml) Campari for a slightly lighter drink.

Sparkling Twist

  • Top the stirred Negroni with a splash of prosecco for a Negroni Sbagliato.

Stirring Technique

  • Stir gently against the side of the glass—vigorous swirling adds air and dilutes too quickly.

Vermouth Storage

  • Keep sweet vermouth refrigerated after opening and use within a month for peak flavor.