Classic Negroni Cocktail Recipe

Most people can spot a Negroni from a mile away, thanks to its vibrant red color. This cocktail has a rich history that dates way back to 1919: According to Food and Wine, the first Negroni was served at Caffè Casoni in the stunning town of Florence, Italy. Count Camillo Negroni is likely the one we can thank for making this drink a reality because he ordered an Americano with gin rather than traditional soda water.

Recipe developer Michelle McGlinn crafted this fabulous cocktail that would be great to serve at happy hour or with dinner or an appetizer. "So many of my closest friends love Negronis, including my boyfriend — it's one of his favorite drinks. It seems like a drink you either love or hate. That being said, it's good to keep in your arsenal for when you have Negroni lovers over, because it is super easy to make," McGlinn raves. "The recipe is easy to remember as it is 1:1:1, and all you need is gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari."

Once you're ready to start, you will need to gather just a few ingredients for this dish. Simply grab gin, vermouth rosso, Campari, and an orange peel.

Now, you're ready to make this classic Negroni cocktail recipe.

Take out a mixing glass and add the gin, vermouth, and Campari. You will also need a few ice cubes. Give the liquid a few stirs to mix. 

Once the liquid is ready, add a large ice cube to a rocks glass. In a lot of drink recipes, a large ice cube is better since it takes longer to melt.

Next, strain it into the glass and over the ice cube.

To add a little pizazz to your cocktail, add an orange peel. McGlinn also suggests a few more options to make your drink worthy of the gram. "You can get creative with Negroni garnishes. You can peel a thin strip of orange with a channel knife, or cut whole orange slices for an especially orange flavored Negroni," McGlinn Notes. "You can also switch the citrus to lemon or grapefruit for a slightly different flavor!"

Another good idea? McGlinn suggests a dehydrated orange with rosemary for a fancier twist!

Now, the only thing left to do is clink your glasses. This classic Negroni makes an excellent drink for happy hour, but McGlinn also provides a few great serving suggestions. "Negroni makes the most sense to me as an aperitif because the flavor is so strong, and the bitterness does not pair well with many meals. It is also a flavor profile that stimulates the appetite, much like a sour, so it should be used ahead of a meal rather than after. If you are having this with appetizers," McGlinn shares. "I'd recommend bold flavors to pair against the bitter drink: charcuterie with prosciutto and salami, salty, flavorful cheeses like parmesan and blue cheese, or even a flatbread pizza with flavorful tomato sauce, onions, and pepperonis."

We hope it hits the spot!