Negroni: Sweetest Valentine’s Day Cocktails

If your romantic dinner includes one bowl of spaghetti with two forks, then this negroni cocktail is for you! It’s a classic Italian drink that’s made with Campari. One of the easiest classic cocktails, a Negroni calls for equals parts gin, red vermouth, and Campari simply stirred together, then served over ice with an orange peel twist. The Negroni cocktail is said to have originated in Florence, Italy and is known as an “aperitivo,” or drink to have before dinner. 

Vermouth is a fortified wine that contains a variety of botanicals, herbs, and spices, as well as a neutral alcohol like clear brandy. That said, the vermouth you choose to use for your Negroni cocktail is personal try a few and see what you like. We recommend Carpano Antico, Martini & Rossi, or Dolin Rouge. Other bitter, red aperitifs exist, such as the slightly sweeter, less alcoholic Aperol or American-made Capelletti. (But many would insist that a Negroni must use Campari!) We would also say that sipping this drink alongside a bowl of olives and some salty potato chips is a must.

Combine the gin, vermouth and Campari in a mixing glass full of ice. Stir well to combine. Transfer to a rocks glass. Garnish with an orange twist.