If you have not tried a Negroni yet, you have likely missed your chance to try the second most enjoyed cocktail around the World.
Traditionally mixed with equal parts Vermouth Rosso, Italian Bitter and Gin, the Negroni does certainly pack a punch, but what a punch for its vibrant smoothness is bound to seduce you from the first sip.
It all started at Café Cassoni, in Florence, about 100 years ago, when Count Camillo Negroni famously asked his bartender Fosco Scarselli to strengthen his regular Milano-Torino aperitivo cocktail by replacing soda water with gin. It is rumoured that the Count, a well-travelled gentleman who had spent long periods in The United States, had developed a tasting for higher proof spirits, a passion which had not gained the seal of approval of his wife. The Milano-Torino, a cocktail mixed with equal parts Vermouth Rosso and Italian Bitter, topped with soda water, provided the perfect camouflage for the Count’s covert mission.
The final piece de resistance of which involved replacing the traditional lemon slice garnish for that of an orange instead, ensuring that Count Camillo’s friends, who were also in on the whole operation, would not mistakenly sip from the wrong glass.
Today, the Negroni is a truly global cocktail. Unfortunately, the location Florence’s historical centre is now closed, as the final re-incarnation of the old Café Cassoni locked its doors a few years back. But do not despair, as you will find many bars around the world that will be able to serve you a great Negroni.
Making a Negroni at home takes only a little practice. All you need is to have 3 ingredients and to follow 3 easy steps.
INGREDIENTS:
- 40ml - 9diDANTE INFERNO
- 20ml - Campari
- 30ml - London Dry Gin
- Pour all ingredients into a mixing glass with abundant ice and stir for 30 seconds
- Strain into an Old Fashioned glass
- Garnish with a peel of Orange