Negroni Recipe: How to Make a Classic Negroni

Negroni Recipe: How to Make a Classic Negroni

October 14, 2026WhiskeyOnline NZ

The Negroni is the great Italian aperitivo cocktail: bittersweet, aromatic and made with equal parts of just three ingredients. It is the perfect drink before dinner.

Classic Negroni Recipe

Ingredients (serves 1)

  • 30ml gin
  • 30ml Campari
  • 30ml sweet red vermouth
  • Orange slice or twist, to garnish
  • Ice

Method

  1. Add the gin, Campari and vermouth to a mixing glass filled with ice.
  2. Stir for about 20–30 seconds until well chilled.
  3. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
  4. Garnish with an orange slice or a twist of orange peel.

Tip: Stir, don't shake. Stirring keeps the Negroni silky and clear.

Choosing Your Gin, Campari and Vermouth

A classic London dry gin such as Tanqueray, Bombay Sapphire or Beefeater works best; find more in our gin collection. Campari is essential, and for the vermouth try Martini Rosso for a classic profile or Dolin Rouge for a lighter, more elegant Negroni. See our vermouth and aperitifs range.

Negroni Variations

  • Boulevardier: swap the gin for bourbon or rye whiskey.
  • Negroni Sbagliato: replace the gin with Prosecco and serve in a wine glass.
  • White Negroni: use Suze and Lillet Blanc instead of Campari and red vermouth.
  • Ready to pour: Campari Negroni comes pre-mixed, just pour over ice.

Shop the Ingredients

Campari Bitter Aperitif 1L →
Martini Rosso Vermouth 750ml →
Campari Negroni Ready to Drink 500ml →
Shop gin →

FAQs

What is in a Negroni?

Equal parts gin, Campari and sweet red vermouth, stirred over ice and garnished with orange.

Is a Negroni strong?

Yes. All three ingredients are alcoholic, so a Negroni is a spirit-forward drink best enjoyed slowly.

What is the difference between a Negroni and a Boulevardier?

A Boulevardier uses bourbon or rye whiskey instead of gin, giving a richer, warmer drink.

WhiskeyOnline NZ recipes are for guidance only. Please drink responsibly. You must be 18 or over to purchase alcohol in New Zealand.

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