Blood Orange Negroni Recipe – When it comes to cocktails, the Negroni is a timeless classic beloved for its perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and botanical flavors. But if you want to elevate this drink with a seasonal twist, the Blood Orange Negroni is the answer. This refreshing variation incorporates the unique citrus depth of blood orange juice, lending both vibrant color and a naturally sweet, tangy edge that softens the bitterness of Campari.
The traditional Negroni is made with equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, but the addition of fresh blood orange juice gives this version a modern update. Blood oranges are known for their striking ruby-red flesh and complex flavor, which combines notes of raspberry, citrus, and a hint of sweetness. This makes them ideal for cocktails that need both brightness and depth.
Recipe Overview
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Active Time: 5 minutes
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Resting Time: 0 minutes
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Total Time: 5 minutes
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Cuisine: Italian-inspired cocktail
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Course: Drink / Aperitif
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Servings: 1 cocktail
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Calories per Serving: ~210
Equipment Needed
To craft a perfect Blood Orange Negroni, you’ll need:
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Cocktail shaker or mixing glass
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Bar spoon
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Jigger (for measuring)
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Citrus juicer (for fresh blood oranges)
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Strainer
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Old-fashioned or rocks glass
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Ice cubes
Ingredients
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1 oz (30 ml) gin – A classic London Dry gin works well, but you can experiment with botanical gins.
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1 oz (30 ml) Campari – Adds the signature bitter edge.
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1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth – Provides sweetness and depth.
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1 oz (30 ml) fresh blood orange juice – The star ingredient, adding citrusy brightness.
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Ice cubes – For mixing and serving.
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Blood orange slices or peel twist – For garnish.
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 210 |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Sugars | 12 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Alcohol Content | ~18g |
Instructions
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Juice the blood oranges:
Start by juicing a fresh blood orange. Strain to remove pulp for a smoother cocktail. -
Prepare your mixing glass or shaker:
Fill with ice to ensure a well-chilled drink. -
Measure and add ingredients:
Using a jigger, add the gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and freshly squeezed blood orange juice into the mixing glass. -
Stir or shake:
Traditionally, a Negroni is stirred rather than shaken. Stir the mixture for about 20–30 seconds until thoroughly chilled and diluted to the right balance. -
Strain and serve:
Strain the drink into a rocks glass filled with ice cubes. -
Garnish:
Add a slice of blood orange or a twist of its peel to highlight the citrus flavors. -
Sip and enjoy:
Serve immediately and enjoy this colorful, refreshing take on a beloved classic.
Tips for the Perfect Blood Orange Negroni
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Choose ripe blood oranges: Their flavor is sweeter and more vibrant when in peak season (December to April).
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Balance is key: If you prefer a less bitter cocktail, reduce the Campari slightly and increase the blood orange juice.
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Experiment with vermouth: Try different brands of sweet vermouth to alter the drink’s complexity.
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Glassware matters: A short rocks glass showcases the deep red color beautifully.
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Serving suggestion: Pair with charcuterie, roasted nuts, or citrus-based appetizers for an elevated experience.
Variations
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Sparkling Blood Orange Negroni: Add a splash of soda water or prosecco for a bubbly twist.
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Frozen Negroni: Blend with crushed ice for a refreshing summer slush.
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Blood Orange Negroni Spritz: Serve in a wine glass with sparkling wine for a lighter version.
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Smoky Negroni: Use a gin with smoky notes or add a dash of mezcal for complexity.
Conclusion
The Blood Orange Negroni is more than just a cocktail; it’s a vibrant celebration of flavor and color. By enhancing the classic Negroni with the natural sweetness and depth of blood orange juice, you get a drink that feels sophisticated yet approachable. Perfect for cocktail enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike, this recipe is quick to prepare, visually stunning, and endlessly versatile.
