Negroni – the iconic Italian drink, its origins, history, and recipe
Negroni is one of the most famous cocktails in the world. This iconic Italian drink has gained popularity thanks to its simple recipe, perfectly balanced taste, and rich history. In recent years, Negroni has been one of the most searched cocktails on Google, especially in connection with terms such as Negroni recipe, Negroni drink, Negroni cocktail, and Negroni history.
The history of the Negroni cocktail
The Negroni originated in Florence around 1919. According to the most widely accepted version of the story, Count Camillo Negroni ordered a stronger version of his favorite drink, the Americano, at the Caffè Casoni (now Caffè Giacosa). Instead of soda, he asked the bartender to add gin.
The result was a new cocktail – Negroni, which quickly spread throughout Italy and later around the world. In 1967, it was officially included in the IBA (International Bartenders Association) list as a classic cocktail.
What is Negroni and why is it so popular?
Negroni is an aperitif cocktail known for its:
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bittersweet taste
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simple ratio of ingredients
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elegant red color
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no need for a shaker
It is ideal as an aperitif to stimulate the appetite.
The original recipe for Negroni
Classic Negroni recipe
Ingredients:
Procedure:
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Place a large ice cube in a lowball glass.
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Add gin, Campari, and vermouth in equal proportions.
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Gently stir with a bar spoon.
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Garnish with a slice or zest of orange.
Negroni is not shaken, but stirred directly in the glass.
Negroni flavor profile
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Gin – adds dryness and herbal notes
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Campari – bitterness and characteristic red color
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Sweet vermouth – balances sweetness and spicy notes
The result is a complex yet perfectly balanced drink.
The most famous Negroni variations
Negroni has become the basis for many popular variations:
Negroni Sbagliato
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gin is replaced proseccoo
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lighter, fresher aperitif
Boulevardier
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gin replaces bourbon or rye whiskey
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warmer, more pronounced flavor profile
White Negroni
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gin, Suze and white vermouth
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light color, drier taste
How to serve Negroni correctly
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glass: old fashioned / rocks glass
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ice: large cube or clear ice
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garnish: orange zest (sometimes lemon zest)
Proper presentation is just as important with Negroni as the recipe itself.
Negroni is proof that simplicity is the key to perfection. Three ingredients, equal proportions, and more than a century of history make this drink a timeless classic. Whether you love bitter flavors or are looking for an iconic aperitif, Negroni is always the right choice.
Frequently asked questions about Negroni
What is a Negroni drink?
Negroni is a classic Italian aperitif cocktail made from gin, Campari, and sweet red vermouth in equal proportions.
What is the original recipe for Negroni?
The original recipe consists of 30 ml of gin, 30 ml of Campari, and 30 ml of sweet vermouth. The drink is mixed directly in a glass with ice.
Where does Negroni come from?
Negroni was created around 1919 in Florence, when Count Camillo Negroni ordered a stronger version of the Americano drink with gin instead of soda.
Is Negroni shaken or stirred?
Negroni is not mixed in a shaker, but stirred in a glass or mixing glass to preserve its purity and balanced flavor.
What vermouth is used in Negroni?
Negroni uses sweet red vermouth (e.g., Martini Rosso), which balances the bitterness of Campari and the dryness of gin.
