Created using a 1:1:1 ratio of gin, vermouth and Campari, a classic negroni is a strong-flavoured cocktail with plenty of kick. Though purists may beg to differ, the simple base recipe leaves plenty of room for experimentation and adaption, by swapping out ingredients or opting for different garnishes. Even if you choose to stick to the traditional composition, varying the style of gin and vermouth will result in vastly different flavour profiles for each blend.

Advertisement

Read on to discover our favourite recipes for this classic pre-dinner aperitif.

Classic negroni

This traditional negroni recipe is beautiful in its simplicity. We've used a 25ml measure each of gin, sweet vermouth and Campari, but you can use more or less, providing that you stick to equal proportions of each to maintain the balance. Serve with ice and garnish with an orange slice. Or, if enjoying during the colder months, try blood orange slices.

Classic negroni

Sherry negroni

More like this
Sherry negroni

This twist on tradition is made using a sherry blend – we've used one part fino sherry, two parts oloroso sherry and two parts of another sherry, such as Pedro Ximénez – to add some softness to the aperitif. It's an elegant option for using up any leftover sherry that's been lurking in the drinks cabinet since Christmas.

Sherry negroni

Negroni mocktail

Negroni mocktail

This gorgeous, golden negroni mocktail packs a real flavour punch while still maintaining its alcohol-free status. We've created a clever syrup base using grapefruit, orange, cardamom pods, coriander and sugar. To serve, mix this into white grape juice and garnish with fresh fruit for a sophisticated finish.

Negroni mocktail

Pink negroni

Pink negroni

This lighter, brighter take on a negroni is deliciously different to the original, providing a perfect pre-dinner drink for the summer months. Use your preferred pink gin, along with rose vermouth and Aperol for a vibrant cocktail. Finish with plenty of ice, a pink grapefruit slice, and a basil leaf.

Pink negroni

Negroni sbagliato

Negroni sbagliato

Dust off the highball glasses for this one – things are about to get bubbly! Top up a Campari and vermouth base with your favourite bottle of prosecco to create a sparkling, long cocktail that's a little lighter on the palate than a traditional negroni.

Negroni sbagliato

El Pastor mezcal negroni

El Pastor mescal negroni

Swap gin for mezcal, and opt for a vibrant red vermouth to create this colourful, short cocktail. We've used Amores Espadin in our blend, but you can use any mezcal that you enjoy – different bottles may lend smoky, sweet, floral, fruity or earthy undertones to your drink.

El Pastor mezcal negroni

Now try

How to make the perfect negroni
Our best ever classic cocktails
Our top-rated easy cocktails
The best gin taste tested
The best vermouth taste tested
What is Campari?

Advertisement

Do you have a favourite negroni recipe, or a top tip to share with us? We'd love to hear from you! Let us know in the comments below.

Comments, questions and tips

Choose the type of message you'd like to post

Choose the type of message you'd like to post
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement