Classic Negroni Cocktail Recipe

Nothing can beat the classic Negroni – it’s a beloved cocktail that is made with equal parts gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and garnished with an orange twist.

Timeless and easy – Whenever I’m in doubt about what I should make for an at-home happy hour, the Negroni is an old reliable. One because it’s deliciously complex, but also incredibly easy since it’s an equal parts recipe.

Customizable – It’s so easy to customize and adapt this drink into many different variations that suit your tastes. You can adjust the ratios and/or swap out ingredients here and there based on this classic recipe.

Stunning elegance – The stunning drink has the most beautiful red shade and looks so impressive despite being so easy to make. That red color is perfect for all sorts of occasions year round – from drinking it as an aperitif or serving at a holiday party with its festive red color.

Ingredient Notes

Gin – Use your favorite brand, but a London dry gin makes a great Negroni.

Campari – You can find Campari at most liquor stores nowadays, but if you want you can use Aperol – just know it’ll be a little sweeter than the original recipe but will still have the bitter notes you need for this recipe.

Sweet red vermouth – My favorite brands of sweet vermouth are Punt e Mes or Carpano Antica Formula – both are great options!

Orange peel for garnish – This garnish isn’t just for show. We taste with the scents that our nose picks up, and when you lean in to take a sip, you’ll get an extra pop of citrus aroma. An orange slice would also work for this effect. It’s very easy to make an orange garnish though, simply run a vegetable peeler around an orange and form it into a twist shape. 

Always stir, never shake. Stir for at least 30 seconds for best results.

Keep your sweet vermouth in the fridge and try to consume it within 3 months as its flavor and freshness can easily deteriorate. I like to buy half bottles since I don’t usually go through a full bottle within 3 months.

Twist your orange peel over the glass. This will express orange oil onto the surface of the drink, which will add even more flavor and aroma. 

Variations

If you prefer a sparkling cocktail, try a Negroni Sbagliato.

Want something lighter but has a bittersweet flavor? The White Negroni made with gentian liqueur, gin, Lillet Blanc, and a lemon twist is the ticket.

Don’t like gin? Try a Vodka Negroni.

Want something extra festive for the holidays? Try my Spiced Christmas Negroni. 

Want a sour element? Try an Enzoni Cocktail.

FAQ

Is a Negroni really strong?

Yes, a Negroni can be considered a strong cocktail because it is made entirely of spirits: gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. There are no mixers to dilute it, so it packs a punch with both bold flavors and a high ABV.

What are the origins of the Negroni?

It’s a classic Italian cocktail that can be traced back to Count Camillo Negroni in the early 1900s. Supposedly, he requested his favorite drink – the Americano cocktail – be made stronger by adding gin instead of soda water.

When should you drink a Negroni?

Whenever you desire! But, it does make for a great cocktail for an “aperitivo” – which is essentially a pre-dinner drink or aperitif in Italian. Italians drink aperitivos to help stimulate the appetite before a meal.