How to Make the Best Negroni

Wondering how to make the best negroni? Combine equal parts gin, vermouth and Campari over ice, stir, and then garnish with a fresh slice of orange.

Love trying new cocktails? Try watermelon palomas, cranberry margaritas, rum runners, or sherbet champagne mimosas.

Why You’ll Love It

Easy to make: Just 3 ingredients stirred over ice.
Bold flavor: A great balance of bitter, sweet and botanical.
Elegant presentation: The orange slice adds a classy touch.
Perfect for any occasion: Great before dinner or during a gathering.
Time-tested: A classic cocktail that never goes out of style.

Best Negroni Ingredients

A complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

Campari: A bright red liqueur with a bittersweet flavors including cherry, clove, cascarilla, cinnamon, rhubarb, and orange. This Italian liqueur brings signature color and bite.
Gin: Adds crisp, herbal notes that round out the flavor. Pick something bold with juniper flavors so it stands up to the vibrant Campari taste.
Red vermouth: Balances the bitterness with sweetness and depth. Something sweet like Martini Rosso, Cinzano Rosso or Carpano Antica would be great in this cocktail.
Ice cubes: Chill the drink without diluting it too much.
Orange slice: Adds a touch of citrus aroma and visual appeal.

How to Make the Best Negroni

For more detailed instructions with weights and measurements, jump to the printable recipe card.

Combine ingredients: Add Campari, gin, vermouth and ice to a cocktail jug or glass.
Stir and chill: Stir until well chilled.
Strain and serve: Pour into 2 glasses.
Garnish: Top each with half an orange slice, serve and enjoy.

Substitutions and Variations

Use pink gin: For a slightly sweeter version with floral notes.
Swap vermouth: Try dry vermouth instead of sweet for a sharper flavor profile.
Make a sbagliato: Replace gin with sparkling wine for a lighter twist.
Make a boulevardier: Swap the gin for whiskey for a smoother blend.
Make a cin-cyn: Swap the Campari for Cynar (pronounced CHEE-nar). It’s lower in alcohol than Campari and has a lighter taste.
Try different garnishes: Use lemon peel or blood orange for variety.

Serving Suggestions

As an aperitif: An aperitif, or drink served before dinner, can be enjoyed on its own or with some light nibbles such as jalapeno popcorn or roasted party nuts.
With appetizers: You can also pair your classic Italian cocktail with something a little more filling such as steak and mushroom bruschetta, arancini or mini pizza bagel bites.

How to Store Negroni Cocktails

Store: You can keep mixed negroni in an airtight bottle in the refrigerator for several weeks, although it does taste fresher when mixed right before serving.
Freeze: These don’t freeze well because of the alcohol content.