The Vodka Negroni, also known as the Negroski, is a twist on the classic cocktail. It’s a perfect drink for those who prefer vodka over gin or want to try something new. The combination of vodka, Italian Campari, and sweet vermouth creates a unique and delicious flavor.
If you love cocktails with a bitter kick, you should definitely check out my cocktail recipes for a Negroni Sbagliato, Aperol Vodka Martini, or a Campari Tonic. Both have that characteristic bitter orange flavor that we all love in Negronis.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simplicity – with only 3 ingredients, this cocktail is easy to make and perfect for those who want a quick and delicious drink.
Elegance – it’s a sophisticated cocktail that is perfect to serve at a fancy dinner party or when you’re craving something that is a bit elevated.
Customization – this cocktail can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Add a touch of orange juice for a sweeter flavor or experiment with different types of vodka to create a unique flavor profile.
What is a Vodka Negroni?
A traditional Negroni is made with one part Campari, gin, and sweet vermouth. In a Vodka Negroni, vodka is used instead of gin. The other ingredients remain the same: sweet vermouth and Campari. The result is a clean finish with slightly less bitter and botanical flavors.
The Negroski is a great option for those who prefer vodka over gin, or for those who find the bitterness of the original Negroni too overpowering. While the Negroski may not be as well-known as the classic Negroni, it is gaining more attention.
Ingredient Notes
- Vodka: Use your favorite good quality vodka. If you still want another layer of citrusy zing, you can also try an orange vodka. I would recommend one that doesn’t have any sugar added so as to not disrupt the balance of the Vodka Negroni. A good example would be Absolut Mandarin.
- Campari: Campari is a bitter Italian liqueur that is a key ingredient in a Negroni. It can be found at just about any liquor store. You can learn all about it, and its bittersweet cousin – Aperol, in my post about Aperol vs. Campari.
- Sweet vermouth: Sweet red vermouth is a fortified wine that is flavored with various botanicals. All liquor stores carry sweet vermouth in some form. Some good brands for sweet vermouth include Carpano Antica Formula, Cocchi Vermouth di Torino, and Dolin Rouge.
- Orange twist: Try a twist of orange as a garnish to add a pop of color and a hint of citrus aroma. Garnish aromas that complement the flavors of the cocktail can elevate the overall taste and feel of a drink. You can also just use a slice of orange if you prefer.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Add vodka and Campari to a mixing glass filled with ice.
Step 2: Add sweet vermouth and stir well.
Step 3: Strain into a cocktail glass (typically a rocks glass) filled with ice cubes. Garnish with an orange peel, if desired.
Expert Tips
- When making a Vodka Negroni, it’s important to use high-quality vodka to ensure the best taste. Cocktails that do not contain mixers to buffer the taste, like the Negroni, taste only as good as the quality of the ingredients.
- Remember to always stir spirit-forward cocktails, like a Negroni, instead of using a cocktail shaker. Shaking can dilute the drink too much and change its texture and flavor. Stirring allows for a more controlled mixing of the ingredients while keeping the drink cold.
- For a sweeter twist on the classic Negroni, try using Aperol instead of Campari or add a bit of orange juice or simple syrup.
- For another layer of bitter orange flavor, try add a few dashes of orange bitters.
Negroni FAQ
What are some good high-quality brands of vodka for a Vodka Negroni?
Some good high-quality brands of vodka for a Vodka Negroni include Belvedere, Grey Goose, and Ketel One. However, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what is available in your area.
Is a Negroni really strong?
A Negroni can be quite strong, as it is typically made with equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari. However, the addition of vodka in a Vodka Negroni may slightly alter the strength and flavor profile.
Related Recipes
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Vodka Negroni Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ounce vodka
- 1 ounce Campari
- 1 ounce sweet vermouth
- Orange twist for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Add the vodka, Campari, and sweet vermouth to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir well and strain into a cocktail glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with an orange twist, if desired.
Notes
- When making a Vodka Negroni, it’s important to use high-quality vodka to ensure the best taste.
- Remember to always stir Negroni cocktails, shaking can cause the ingredients to become too diluted.
- For a sweeter twist on the classic Negroni, try using Aperol instead of Campari or add a bit of orange juice or simple syrup.
- For another layer of bitter orange flavor, try add a few dashes of orange bitters.
Nutrition
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