To the timeless art of Negroni and discovery of perfect balance

The Timeless Tale

In the heart of Florence, Italy, where the streets whisper stories of centuries past, one cocktail was born from the imagination of a bold count. The year was 1919, and Count Camillo Negroni, a man of elegance and adventure, sought something different—something stronger.He stepped into Caffè Casoni, his usual haunt, and greeted his trusted bartender, Fosco Scarselli. On this particular evening, the count’s request was simple yet daring. He asked for a twist on his favorite drink, the Americano. But instead of soda water, he wanted something with a bit more bite. Scarselli reached for the gin, replacing the usual fizz with this sharp spirit, and so, the Negroni was born.The deep red liquid swirled in the glass, its rich aroma blending with the warm Italian air. It was bitter, it was sweet, it was bold—just like the count himself. Word of the Negroni spread like wildfire, from the cobblestone streets of Florence to the grand salons of Europe. It became a symbol of sophistication, mystery, and rebellion.As the years passed, the Negroni traveled across borders, crossing oceans, and winning hearts with its perfectly balanced trio of gin, vermouth, and Campari. Yet, no matter where it is sipped, every glass holds a touch of that Florentine night, the echo of a count’s daring choice, and the taste of timeless elegance.To this day, the Negroni remains more than just a drink. It’s a story—rich, deep, and unforgettable, much like its namesake. So, next time you raise a glass, remember the count’s bold spirit, and let yourself be part of the legend.

Recipes

Classic Negroni

A true classic, the Negroni is as simple as it is timeless. Here’s how to create the perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and bold flavors.
Ingredients:
• 1 oz (30 ml) Gin
• 1 oz (30 ml) Campari
• 1 oz (30 ml) Sweet Vermouth
• Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
2. Add ice and stir gently until well chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into an old-fashioned glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with a twist of orange peel, gently squeezing it over the drink to release its oils before dropping it into the glass.Sip slowly, savoring the perfect blend of flavors—a true taste of history.

Negroni Sbagliato

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- 1 oz Prosecco
- Orange slice, for garnish
Instructions:
Pour the Campari and vermouth over ice in a glass, top with Prosecco instead of gin, and stir gently. Garnish with an orange slice. The "Sbagliato," meaning "mistaken," replaces gin with sparkling wine, for a lighter, bubbly twist.

White Negroni

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Gin
- 1 oz Suze (or other gentian-based aperitif)
- 1 oz Lillet Blanc
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
Stir the ingredients over ice and strain into a glass with ice or serve neat. Garnish with a lemon twist. This pale version uses gentian and Lillet Blanc for a more floral, herbal taste.

Coffee Negroni

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz Coffee Liqueur
- Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
Stir all ingredients with ice, then strain into an old-fashioned glass with ice. Garnish with an orange peel. This version adds a rich, roasted flavor to the traditional Negroni with a coffee liqueur substitute for vermouth.

Mezcal Negroni

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Mezcal
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
Mix the ingredients over ice, stir, and strain into a glass with ice. Garnish with an orange peel. Mezcal brings a smoky, earthy twist to the Negroni, perfect for those who like bold flavors.

Frozen Negroni

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- Crushed ice
- Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
Blend all ingredients with crushed ice until smooth, then pour into a chilled glass. Garnish with an orange twist. This icy take is perfect for hot days, providing a refreshing slush-like texture.

Rum Negroni

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Dark Rum
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
Combine ingredients over ice, stir, and strain into a glass with ice. Garnish with an orange peel. Using rum adds a tropical, molasses-like sweetness to the Negroni.

Tequila Negroni

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Blanco Tequila
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- Lime twist, for garnish
Instructions:
Stir the tequila, Campari, and vermouth over ice, strain into a glass, and garnish with a lime twist. The tequila brings a bright, citrus-forward twist to the classic recipe.

Aperol Negroni

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Gin
- 1 oz Aperol (substituting Campari)
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
Mix the ingredients over ice, stir, and strain into a glass with ice. Garnish with an orange peel. Aperol is a slightly sweeter, less bitter substitute for Campari, making this version smoother and easier to sip.

Tinto Negroni

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Gin
- 1 oz Red Wine
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
Combine gin, red wine, and vermouth over ice, stir gently, and strain into a glass with ice. Garnish with an orange peel. The Tinto Negroni replaces Campari with red wine, creating a richer, deeper flavor that’s fruity and robust.

Cynar Negroni

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Gin
- 1 oz Cynar (artichoke liqueur)
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
Mix all ingredients over ice, stir, and strain into a glass with ice. Garnish with an orange peel. Cynar adds a deep, earthy bitterness that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of vermouth.

Vermouth Forward Negroni

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Gin
- 1.5 oz Sweet Vermouth
- 0.75 oz Campari
- Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
Stir the ingredients over ice, strain into a glass with ice, and garnish with an orange peel. In this version, the vermouth is the star, making the drink smoother and less bitter.

Summer Negroni

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Gin
- 1 oz Aperol
- 1 oz Blanc Vermouth
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients over ice, stir, and strain into a glass with ice. Garnish with a lemon twist. The Summer Negroni uses Aperol and blanc vermouth for a lighter, fruitier cocktail.

Oaxacan Negroni

Ingredients:
- 0.75 oz Mezcal
- 0.75 oz Reposado Tequila
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
Stir mezcal, tequila, Campari, and sweet vermouth over ice, strain into a glass, and garnish with an orange peel. Combining mezcal and tequila, this variation adds smoky depth with a subtle complexity.

Chocolate Negroni

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- 0.5 oz Chocolate Liqueur
- Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
Stir all ingredients over ice, strain into a glass with ice, and garnish with an orange twist. The chocolate liqueur adds a rich, velvety finish to the traditional bitter-sweet profile.

Sparkling Negroni

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- Splash of Sparkling Water
- Orange slice, for garnish
Instructions:
Mix the gin, Campari, and vermouth over ice, then top with a splash of sparkling water. Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice. This variation adds light carbonation, making it refreshing and effervescent.

Negroni Rosato

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Gin
- 1 oz Aperol (instead of Campari)
- 1 oz Rosé Vermouth
- Grapefruit twist, for garnish
Instructions:
Stir the gin, Aperol, and rosé vermouth over ice, strain into a glass, and garnish with a grapefruit twist. This variation uses rosé vermouth, giving the drink a lighter, fruitier flavor with a touch of floral notes.

Negroni Speziato

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Spiced Gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- Cinnamon stick, for garnish
Instructions:
Mix all ingredients over ice, stir, and strain into a glass with ice. Garnish with a cinnamon stick. The Negroni Speziato brings warm, spicy notes to the cocktail by using spiced gin, perfect for cooler seasons.

Negroni Sour

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- 0.75 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 0.5 oz Simple Syrup
- Egg white (optional)
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
Shake all ingredients (including egg white if using) vigorously with ice, then strain into a glass. Garnish with a lemon twist. The Negroni Sour adds a tart, citrusy twist with lemon juice and simple syrup, creating a smooth, frothy texture.

Smoked Negroni

Ingredients:
- 1 oz Smoked Gin (or regular gin with a smoked element added)
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
Stir all ingredients with ice, then strain into a glass with a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange peel. The Smoked Negroni adds a smoky element to the classic recipe, enhancing its depth and complexity, perfect for fans of bolder flavors.

Culture

Negroni is more than just a cocktail; it embodies a rich culture that celebrates Italian elegance, social connection, and the art of mixology. This iconic drink, made from equal parts gin, vermouth, and Campari, has become a staple in bars around the world, symbolizing sophistication and a deep appreciation for flavor.Historical Roots
Negroni's origins trace back to 1919 when Count Camillo Negroni requested a stronger version of the Americano at Caffè Casoni in Florence. By swapping soda water for gin and adding an orange garnish, the Negroni was born. This simple yet bold cocktail quickly gained popularity, becoming synonymous with the Italian aperitivo culture—an essential ritual that encourages relaxation and socializing before dinner. See more in History of Negroni page.The Aperitivo Culture
In Italy, the aperitivo is a cherished tradition that signifies the transition from day to evening. Negroni plays a vital role in this ritual, typically enjoyed between 6 PM and 8 PM, accompanied by light snacks known as cicchetti. These snacks, which include olives, cheeses, and cured meats, are meant to stimulate the appetite without filling up before dinner. This cultural practice emphasizes the importance of savoring moments with friends and family over a well-crafted drink.Variations and Creativity
The versatility of Negroni has led to numerous variations, each maintaining the signature red hue of Campari. From the Negroni Sbagliato, which replaces gin with sparkling wine, to the Boulevardier, which swaps gin for bourbon, the Negroni family tree continues to grow, offering something for every palate. This adaptability showcases the cocktail's ability to evolve while remaining true to its roots.
Global CelebrationToday, Negroni is celebrated worldwide, with events like Negroni Week highlighting its cultural significance. This annual event, organized by Campari and Imbibe Magazine, brings together bars and restaurants to raise funds for charitable causes while promoting the art of cocktail making. It has grown into a global phenomenon, attracting thousands of participants and raising millions for various initiatives.Negroni is a testament to the enduring appeal of Italian cocktail culture. Its rich history, integral role in the aperitivo tradition, and endless variations make it a beloved choice for cocktail enthusiasts everywhere. Whether enjoyed in a bustling bar in Florence or at home with friends, Negroni invites all to partake in its sophisticated charm and community spirit

Events

Upcoming EventsIn 2025, the highlight for Negroni enthusiasts will be Negroni week, scheduled from September 15 to 21, 2025. This annual celebration, organized by Campari and Imbibe Magazine, invites bars and restaurants around the globe to participate in promoting the iconic cocktail while supporting Slow Food’s mission for sustainable food practices.During Negroni Week, participating venues will host a variety of events, including special cocktail menus and fundraising initiatives, all aimed at raising awareness and funds for global causes. The initiative has grown significantly over the years, attracting thousands of participants and raising millions for charitable efforts.Additionally, the Campari Red Hands Global 2025 competition will take place, where bartenders can showcase their creativity by crafting unique cocktails inspired by the "Negroni Family Tree." Teams from various countries will compete in a grand finale in Milan.Overall, 2025 promises to be an exciting year for Negroni enthusiasts, with a range of events celebrating this classic cocktail.

Recently passed eventsNegroni Week 2024 took place from September 16 to September 22, 2024, offering cocktail enthusiasts around the globe a chance to celebrate the iconic Negroni cocktail while supporting charitable causes. This annual event, organized by Campari and Imbibe Magazine, featured thousands of bars and restaurants participating worldwide, each contributing to fundraising efforts for Slow Food, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable and equitable food practices.Highlights of Negroni Week 2024
- Specialty Cocktails: Participating venues offered unique takes on the classic Negroni. For instance, the InterContinental New York Barclay featured three specialty cocktails:
- Smoked Negroni with Bombay Sapphire and Campari
- Negroni Blanco with Hendricks Flora Adora
- Garden Negroni with Basil-infused Campari and Malfi Gin.Global Participation: The event fostered community engagement, with bars and restaurants around the world hosting their own celebrations. Last year, Negroni Week raised over $5 million for various charitable initiatives, reflecting its growing impact since its inception.Campari National Day of Service: On September 17, Campari co-hosted the fourth annual National Day of Service, encouraging bartenders and industry partners to participate in community service activities, both virtually and in person.

Bars

This Negroni Map showcases a global journey, from the drink’s origins in Italy to its adaptations around the world. Whether you're seeking a classic or a modern twist, these bars are known for their dedication to crafting the perfect Negroni.This list includes establishments celebrated for their unique twists or mastery of the classic Negroni. If you’re traveling, these are some top spots to enjoy this iconic cocktail:

Europe

Caffe Rivoire, Florence, Italy
The birthplace of the Negroni, Florence is a must-visit, and Caffe Rivoire offers a classic rendition in the heart of the city.Bar Basso, Milan, Italy
Famous for its oversized Negroni served in a goblet, Bar Basso has become an iconic stop for cocktail enthusiasts.The Connaught Bar, London, UK
Known for its elegant cocktails, the Connaught Bar serves an elevated and refined version of the Negroni.Le Syndicat, Paris, France
A hip spot in Paris, Le Syndicat is known for innovative cocktails, including contemporary takes on the Negroni.ShowRum Spirit Bar, Budapest, Hungary
Simple but classy. In the heart of Budapest. Proud Negroni Week spot.Nightingale by BeefBar , Budapest, Hungary
Very intelligent Negroni served here. Sophisticated, mystique.

North America

Dante, New York City, USA
Voted one of the best bars in the world, Dante is renowned for its Negroni variations and Negroni Hour.Bar Caffè Umbra, Toronto, Canada
A chic, Italian-inspired bar that puts out exceptional takes on classic Italian cocktails, especially the Negroni.The Violet Hour, Chicago, USA
This stylish cocktail lounge in Chicago offers a refined Negroni, emphasizing balance and quality.Trick Dog, San Francisco, USA
Known for its inventive cocktail menu, Trick Dog offers creative spins on the classic Negroni.

South America

Florería Atlántico, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Listed among the best bars in the world, Florería Atlántico offers a Negroni with a Latin twist in a speakeasy setting.SubAstor, São Paulo, Brazil
A popular speakeasy bar known for its world-class cocktails, including perfectly crafted Negronis.

Asia

28 HongKong Street, Singapore
A hidden gem in Singapore, 28 HongKong Street offers some of the most finely tuned Negronis in Asia.Bar Trench, Tokyo, Japan
Famous for its attention to detail and sophisticated cocktails, Bar Trench serves Negronis with Japanese precision and flair.Employees Only, Hong Kong
A renowned bar that provides a Negroni with subtle local flavors in the bustling city of Hong Kong.

Africa

Sin + Tax, Johannesburg, South Africa
One of Johannesburg’s top cocktail bars, offering a Negroni that blends local flavors with the classic ingredients.Orphanage Cocktail Emporium, Cape Town, South Africa
Known for its creative cocktail presentations, this spot makes a unique Negroni in a stylish setting.

Australia

Maybe Sammy, Sydney, Australia
This award-winning bar is known for its playful yet masterful approach to cocktails, with a particular focus on Negronis.Black Pearl, Melbourne, Australia
An iconic bar in Melbourne where the bartenders offer both traditional and experimental versions of the Negroni.

Cheers

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