Negroni red orange

The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail made with gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, known for its vibrant ruby red color and balanced bitter taste.

About this subject

The Negroni was created in 1919 in Florence, at Caffè Casoni (now Caffè Giacosa), by Count Camillo Negroni. He asked bartender Fosco Scarselli to strengthen his Americano by adding gin instead of soda, and replacing lemon with orange. Thus a recipe was born that became one of the most iconic cocktails in the world.

Traditionally, the Negroni is served in an old fashioned glass with a large ice cube, garnished with an expressed orange peel. The classic ratio is 1:1:1 of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, though modern variations adjust sweetness or bitterness. The red color comes from Campari, a red amaro also used in other classics like the Americano.

The Negroni's popularity has grown exponentially, especially with the Negroni Week movement launched in 2013 by Imbibe magazine. During one week, bars worldwide offer variations and donate a portion of sales to charitable causes. The cocktail has also inspired variations like the Negroni Sbagliato (with prosecco instead of gin) and the Boulevardier (with bourbon replacing gin).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the Negroni?

The Negroni was created in 1919 in Florence, Italy, by Count Camillo Negroni, who asked the bartender at Caffè Casoni to strengthen his Americano with gin.

How to make a perfect Negroni?

Use equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. Stir with ice in an old fashioned glass, strain onto fresh ice, and garnish with an expressed orange peel.

What are the variations of the Negroni?

Variations include the Negroni Sbagliato (with prosecco), the Boulevardier (with bourbon), and the White Negroni (with Suze and Lillet Blanc).