Negroni Cocktail Recipe

Simple, balanced, and perfect for a sunny afternoon, this Negroni cocktail recipe is an absolute classic.

Some cocktails just conjure a vibe, and the Negroni is one of them.

Sipping a great Negroni can make you feel like you’re on a sunny patio enjoying an easy Italian afternoon.

It’s a classic cocktail that’s easy to create, with plenty of variations to allow for taste.

Psst — before you try making one for yourself, be sure to sign up below for my VIP group. I send these folks my very best cocktail recipes and other ideas!

History of the Negroni Cocktail

A Negroni is a balanced cocktail, meaning it’s a perfect 1:1:1 ratio of equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.

Legend has it that it originated in Florence, Italy in 1919. Count Camillo Negroni ordered a classic Americano (soda, Campari, and vermouth) with gin instead of the club soda to create a stronger cocktail. And the Negroni was born.

Over the years many more variations were created, along with varying the ratios of the standard ingredients to account for taste. In its balanced state, the Negroni can taste somewhat bitter thanks to the Campari.

What is Campari?

So what’s in Campari that makes it bitter?

Campari is a red bitter liqueur, with a bittersweet flavor and bright red color.

Liqueurs in general are created by infusing a neutral spirit with herbs, fruits, flowers, or similar natural ingredients.

The exact formula and ingredients of Campari are actually kept top secret by the company, but lots of folks assume find flavors like bitter orange peel, herb, and even wood or bark.

Negroni Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic Negroni cocktail recipe.

Gin. I don’t recommend anything fussy here; use your favorite or what you’ve got on hand! A London Dry gin is a nice compliment to the bitterness of the Campari.

Campari. A great bottle to keep in your home cocktail stash!

Sweet Vermouth. This is a fortified wine that’s been infused with various botanicals. This is a great one to keep in your liquor cabinet for mixing with various cocktails.

Orange Peel. The spritz of orange oil from a fresh orange peel adds a bit of freshness and sophistication to this simple cocktail.

How to Make a Negroni Cocktail

I like to make my Negronis right in the glass.

Pour in one ounce each of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. Add ice to your glass and gently stir.

Slice a 1-2″ section of orange peel off an orange. Twist this over the cocktail to express the citrus oils into the drink.

If you like, garnish with fresh orange slices.

Negroni Variations

For some, the bitterness of the Campari is overpowering in a Negroni cocktail recipe.

If that’s the case for you, try adjusting the balance of the cocktail. Use 1 1/2 oz of gin and just 3/4 oz of Campari to start, and adjust to your liking.

You can also turn a Negroni into a Negroni Sbagliato by substituting prosecco for the gin, or into a Boulevardier by trading the gin for bourbon.

More Cocktails to Try If You Like Negronis

I love gin cocktails, especially in the spring and summer!

Try the Bee’s Knees for a sweet, honey-forward sip or a Gin Rickey for something totally simple and classic.

Here are few more you’ll love:

• Gin and Prosecco Cocktail
• Butterfly Gin Fizz Cocktail
• Basil Gimlet Cocktail Recipe
• French 75 Cocktail Recipe