Negroni Cocktail

Pro tips

• Stir for a full 30 seconds to properly chill and dilute the drink; under-stirring results in a spirit-forward, unbalanced cocktail.
• Use a fresh, large ice cube or cracked ice to minimize melting and maintain proper dilution throughout drinking.
• Chill your glass before serving to preserve the drink's temperature and texture.
• Express the oils from an orange peel over the surface and use it as garnish for added citrus aroma and flavor.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → Tanqueray or Bols Genever (adjust to preference for botanical intensity)
• Sweet Vermouth → Dry Vermouth (creates a drier, less sweet profile)
• Campari → Aperol (lighter color, lower alcohol, slightly less bitter)

Equipment

rocks glass · bar spoon or long spoon · jigger or measuring glass · channel knife or vegetable peeler (for orange peel)

Should a Negroni be shaken or stirred?

A Negroni should be stirred with ice for 30 seconds, not shaken. Stirring properly chills and dilutes the drink without aerating it, achieving the correct texture and flavor balance.

Can you substitute the vermouth in a Negroni?

Yes. Dry vermouth creates a less sweet, more herbaceous Negroni; sweet vermouth is traditional. Some bartenders use equal parts of both for balance.

What gin works best in a Negroni?

London Dry style gins with juniper-forward profiles work best. Avoid heavily botanical or flavored gins, which can overpower the balance.

How do you serve a Negroni?

Serve in a rocks glass over a large ice cube or fresh ice, with an orange twist or peel for garnish. Some prefer it without ice (up) in a coupe glass.

What's the difference between a Negroni and a Negroni Sbagliato?

A Negroni Sbagliato substitutes Prosecco for gin, making it lighter and more effervescent. The original Negroni is stronger and more spirit-forward.