Best Negroni: Perfect Gin, Campari & Vermouth Cocktail

Here’s a carefully crafted Negroni recipe, designed to encapsulate the rich history and distinct characteristics of this beloved cocktail. This classic Italian aperitif, with its notable bitterness balanced by the aromatic complexity of select ingredients, makes for a perfect drink to enjoy during happy hour or a special occasion like Negroni Week.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz dry gin (preferably a top-shelf variety known for its botanicals)
• 1 oz Campari (for the essential bitterness)
• 1 oz sweet vermouth (Carpano Antica Formula or Punt e Mes are great options for their rich, vanilla notes)
• Orange peel or orange twist for garnish (a blood orange slice can be an exotic alternative)
• Large ice cube or fresh ice
• Optional: A splash of soda water or club soda to lighten (for a variation akin to a Negroni Sbagliato)

Glassware:

• Rocks glass or an old-fashioned glass

Instructions:

1. Chill the Glass: Start by chilling your rocks glass or old-fashioned glass, as a cold glass will enhance the drinking experience.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing glass, combine equal parts of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth over a large ice cube. This maintains the perfect balance that Count Camillo Negroni, the Italian count credited with the origin of the Negroni, cherished.
3. Stir Well: Give the mixture a good stir with a cocktail stirrer, aiming to cool the mixture without overly diluting it. This process helps to blend the flavors beautifully and brings out the subtle vanilla notes of the vermouth and the botanicals of the gin.
4. Garnish and Serve: Strain the drink into the chilled glass. Express the orange oil from the peel or twist over the surface of the drink to add an aromatic citrusy zing, then either drop it in the drink or rim the glass with it.

Serving Suggestions:

• To turn this into a lighter, bubbly variation, top it off with soda water, making a nod to both the Americano cocktail and the Negroni Sbagliato.
• Serve it straight up or on the rocks, based on your preference for intensity.

History Note:

• The Negroni was first concocted in the early 20th century when Count Camillo Negroni asked bartender Fosco Scarselli at Caffè Casoni in Florence to strengthen his favorite cocktail, the Americano, by replacing the soda water with gin.

This recipe not only honors the traditional roots of the Negroni but also explores its versatility and enduring popularity in cocktail bars around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned Negroni lover or new to its unique taste, this cocktail promises a delightful experience. Cheers to a great drink that’s both a classic and a canvas for creativity!

Gin Selections

Choosing the best gin for a Negroni depends largely on personal taste preferences and the desired balance in the cocktail. A Negroni traditionally requires a gin that can stand up to the bold flavors of Campari and vermouth. Here are some excellent choices:

Tanqueray London Dry Gin – Known for its strong juniper and spice notes, Tanqueray makes a bold Negroni that balances well with the bitterness of Campari.

Beefeater London Dry Gin – This gin has a high concentration of juniper and a complex array of botanicals, making it perfect for a Negroni that has a classic, sharply defined character.

Bombay Sapphire – With a more floral and aromatic profile, Bombay Sapphire can create a smoother, more nuanced Negroni.

Plymouth Gin – Slightly less dry than most London Dry gins, Plymouth offers a softer approach to the Negroni, which can be preferable for those who like a more mellow cocktail.

Hendrick’s Gin – Known for its infusion of cucumber and rose, Hendrick’s offers a unique take on the Negroni, adding a slightly floral and fresh twist to the traditional flavor profile.

Sipsmith London Dry Gin – With its balanced juniper-led flavor and a hint of citrus, Sipsmith is well-suited for those who prefer a classic but distinctive Negroni.

Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin – This Australian gin features a mix of Mediterranean citrus, spice, and a hint of lavender, making the Negroni bright and bold.

When selecting a gin for your Negroni, consider the overall flavor profile you prefer. A good rule of thumb is to choose a gin whose botanicals can harmonize with the robust flavors of Campari and vermouth, creating a balanced and enjoyable cocktail.