PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
There’s no denying it—the negroni is the drink of the moment, and we’re 1000% for it. From amaro's takeover in the cocktail scene to the viral negroni sbagliato (with Prosecco in it), this classic cocktail has seen a resurgence that rivals that of the espresso martini. Bittersweet with hints of botanical flavors, this 3-ingredient cocktail will always be a favorite at Delish, even after it’s surpassed by the next IInternet-famous cocktail. Whether you’ve been itching to try this “it” drink before ordering it out, have been a die-hard negroni stan way before it became popular, or are looking for a way to make it your own, our tried-and-true recipe is here for you.
What is a negroni? Simply made from equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, this refreshingly bitter cocktail is a breeze to create. That said, since the negroni only centers around 3 ingredients, it’s important to choose them wisely. Use your good alcohol here—this isn’t the time to bring out that cheap bottle your friend gave you years ago.
Italian Campari is sometimes called the “red heart of every negroni” and mustn’t be skipped. As for the gin, use your favorite high-quality brand, or consult our tried-and-tested list of favorite gin brands. When it comes to selecting a sweet vermouth for this cocktail, we recommend choosing a variety that has a more herbaceous flavor to play on the juniper notes in the gin. New to vermouth? Our list of favorite sweet vermouths will steer you right.
Negroni variations. Tried the classic drink, and it’s just not really your thing? If you’re determined to make the negroni your go-to cocktail, never fear—countless variations have been made to the Campari-based drink over the years. Gin not your fave? Swapping it for mezcal adds a pleasant smokiness to the cocktail, whereas swapping it for whiskey adds rich, warming notes (known as the Prohibition era “Boulevardier”). Still feel like your negroni is too bitter? Try replacing the gin with rum to create the slightly sweeter Kingston negroni.
If you tried this classic cocktail, let us know how it came out in the comments below!
Note: The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
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Directions
Step 1Fill a measuring glass with ice, then pour in Campari, gin, and vermouth. Stir with a bar spoon until chilled through.
Step 2Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with orange peel.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Justin Sullivan is the Associate Food Producer for Delish, where he cooks up exciting new recipes and videos to stimulate your taste buds and your eyeballs. He has worked in professional kitchens across New York, but his favorite role will always be as matzoh ball sous chef to his grandma. He loves diners and being from New Jersey, and when he’s not in the Delish Test Kitchen, Justin travels the globe as the world’s foremost chicken finger critic.
