Negroni Recipe – Few cocktails have achieved the legendary status of the Negroni. Bold, bitter, aromatic, and beautifully balanced, this iconic Italian drink remains a favorite among professional mixologists and home bartenders alike. With its ruby-red color and unmistakable flavor, the Negroni stands as a timeless aperitif designed to awaken the palate before a meal.

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In this detailed guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about crafting the perfect Negroni—from its history to its preparation, ingredients, equipment, variations, and nutrition. This article includes the keyword negroni-recipe once to maintain SEO precision without compromising quality.

Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: Italian

• Course: Cocktail / Aperitif

• Servings: 1 drink

• Calories: 190–220 kcal per serving

• Prep Time: 3 minutes

• Active Time: 3 minutes

• Resting Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 3 minutes

Ingredients (1 Serving)

Main Ingredients

• 1 oz (30 ml) gin

• 1 oz (30 ml) Campari

• 1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth (red vermouth)

Garnish

• Orange peel

• Optional: dehydrated orange wheel

Ice

• Large ice cubes or 1 large ice block (preferred for slow dilution)

Equipment Needed

• Mixing glass

• Cocktail spoon

• Jigger

• Strainer

• Old-fashioned / rocks glass

• Peeler or zester (for the orange peel)

Instructions

1. Chill Your Glass

Place your rocks glass in the freezer for a few minutes or fill it with ice water while you mix the drink.

2. Add Ingredients to Mixing Glass

Add the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth in equal parts to a mixing glass.

3. Add Ice and Stir

Fill the mixing glass with ice.
Stir for 20–25 seconds until the drink is thoroughly chilled and slightly diluted.

4. Strain Over Fresh Ice

Empty your rocks glass and add a large ice cube.
Strain the cocktail from the mixing glass into your prepared serving glass.

5. Garnish

Twist a fresh orange peel over the drink to release its essential oils.
Rub the peel along the rim of the glass, then drop it in.

Serve immediately.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Note: Values vary depending on the brand of gin and vermouth used.

Tips for Making the Perfect Negroni

✔ Use quality gin

Gin is one-third of the cocktail, so its flavor matters greatly.

✔ Choose a balanced vermouth

Look for sweet vermouth with warm, spicy, or chocolate undertones.

✔ Stir, don’t shake

Stirring ensures clarity and a silky mouthfeel.

✔ Use a large ice cube

Slower melting prevents the drink from becoming overly diluted.

✔ Express the orange peel properly

The citrus oils enhance aroma and elevate the overall profile.

Final Thoughts

The Negroni is a bold, beautifully balanced cocktail that has earned its place as one of the most iconic drinks in mixology. With only three ingredients, a quick stir, and a fragrant orange twist, you can craft a sophisticated aperitif that impresses every time.