Enzoni Cocktail (Campari Gin Sour)

The Enzoni Cocktail blends the bold bitterness of Campari with gin’s botanicals and the sweet and tart flavors of muddled grapes, lemon, and simple syrup. Lighter and fruitier than a Negroni, this cocktail is for those that like some elements of a Negroni but are looking for something more refreshing.

If you’re a fan of bittersweet Italian cocktails, you need to try some of my other Italian aperitif recipes. You should definitely try a White Negroni, Rome with a View, and an Aperol Sour are all great places to start!

What is an Enzoni Cocktail?

Created by bartender Vincenzo Errico, the Enzoni is essentially a cross between a Negroni and a Gin Sour. It takes the structure of a Negroni but swaps out the vermouth for fresh grapes, lemon juice, and simple syrup. This creates a citrusy drink that has a lot less bite than a traditional Negroni.

Ingredient Notes

• Gin – A classic London dry gin works great, but I used a local Charleston gin, Hat Trick, from the distillery High Wire. It’s one of my favorites and has floral notes along with citrus, and licorice. 
• Campari – This iconic Italian aperitif gives the Enzoni Cocktail its signature bitter edge. If you prefer a milder bitterness, Aperol can be a softer substitute. I like to even use Aperol in Negronis to soften them a bit.
• Green Grapes – Muddled green grapes add a natural sweetness and fresh fruitiness. If unavailable or preferred, red grapes can be used. Make sure you save a few extra for garnish. 
• Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for balancing the cocktail’s flavors.
• Simple Syrup – You can buy this or make it by combining equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan over the stove or in the microwave. Once the sugar is dissolved, allow it to cool to room temp before using it.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Muddle the grapes in the bottom of an empty cocktail shaker. Then, add the Campari.

Step 2: Add the gin and lemon juice to the shaker.

Step 3: Then, add the simple syrup and ice cubes. Shake until well chilled. 

Step 4: Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with extra grapes on a skewer. 

Tips & Variations

Adjust the bitterness – If you’re new to Campari, you can reduce the amount slightly or opt for Aperol for a softer flavor.

Try red grapes – Swapping green grapes for red grapes can add a slightly sweeter, more robust flavor to the cocktail.

Make it sweeter or more tart – Add more simple syrup or lemon juice depending on your preferences. 

Make it a highball – Add a splash of soda water for a more refreshing, lower-ABV version.

When to Serve an Enzoni

The Enzoni Cocktail is a great drink for aperitivo hour, (a time to serve Italian aperitifs) to help stimulate the appetite before a meal. 

It goes well with happy hour pairings like salty snacks and charcuterie boards. It’s also a fantastic summer cocktail, thanks to its fresh and citrusy character.