Negroni

The Negroni is a classic mixed drink from Italy, typically made with gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth in equal parts. It is commonly served over ice in a short glass and garnished with an orange twist. The combination yields a bitter, aromatic palate balanced by the sweetness of the vermouth and the botanicals of the gin.

Origin and composition: The most enduring origin story links the drink to Florence, circa 1919, at Caffè Cognini (or Caffè Giacosa), where Count Camillo Negroni supposedly asked a bartender to strengthen his favorite Americano by substituting gin for soda water and adding an orange garnish. The resulting cocktail was named after the count. While popular lore supports this tale, exact archival details are scarce. The standard Negroni remains defined by its 1:1:1 ratio of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.

Preparation and serving: The cocktail is typically built in a rocks glass over ice, or stirred with ice and strained into a chilled glass, then garnished with an orange twist to release citrus oils. Classic Negronis are noted for their straightforward three-ingredient profile and balanced bitterness, with the Campari providing a bitter backbone, the vermouth adding sweetness and spice, and the gin contributing botanical sharpness.

Variations and influence: Variants include the Negroni Sbagliato, which substitutes sparkling wine for gin; the White Negroni, using white vermouth and sometimes dry gin; and the Boulevardier, which substitutes whiskey for gin. The Negroni remains a prominent emblem of the Italian aperitivo tradition and is celebrated in events such as Negroni Week, a charitable industry initiative.