The Negroni is one of the most loved Italian alcoholic drinks. Not only is the negroni now a common sighting on bar menus, it’s actually quite rare to find a bar that wouldn’t know what you’re talking about! Designed to be an aperitif, a good Negroni is the very definition and balance of sophistication and simplicity. The much-loved Negroni cocktail is almost purely alcoholic in nature. It was said to have originated back in 1919 at the Caffe Casoni in Florence. Here, Count Camillo Negroni reportedly asked the bartender to change up his favourite cocktail, the Forsco Scarselli, by substituting soda water with gin.

In Italy, the concept of an Italian aperitivo is so much broader than just grabbing a drink. It’s a time to get together with friends, sit down for a drink and chat before dinner, and to enjoy an Italian alcoholic beverage accompanied by light finger foods - it is meant to prepare the stomach and the senses for a meal.

You don’t have to partake in an aperitivo before every meal, but if you’re attempting to experience the Italian culture, we highly recommend giving it a try – a couple of times a week. It’s one of the most beloved Italian customs there is and it would be a shame to miss out.

 

Gin 25ml

Campari 25ml

Vermouth 25ml

orange 1, peeled to garnish

Assemble the ingredients in a rocks glass filled with ice.

Pour the gin, Campari and sweet vermouth.

Stir until chilled.

 Garnish with an orange peel

 

Top tips:

Here are a couple of variations for you to try:

Swapping the gin for prosecco or our Terre Di San Vito’s Terre Brut Sparkling white wine makes for a lighter negroni and softens the bitterness, an ideal aperitif for those who find a classic negroni a bit much.

Rum makes this drink a little gentler than a classic gin negroni. Decant into a hip flask for sipping on wintry walks!