Negroni, a pre-dinner Italian cocktail, which is known to stimulate appetite, is an alcoholic drink usually served as an aperitif. The Negroni cocktail is made of gin, sweet vermouth, Campari (bitters). There are variants of this drink wherein the gin may be substituted with wine or vodka. This drink was invented in the early 19th Century in Italy. Negroni is a classic drink and has a bittersweet taste. A benchmark in classic drinks, it is known to stimulate the taste buds. The sweet vermouth and bitter Italian spirit make a good combination. This drink is a revamped version of the Americano known as fortified Americano.
History Negroni Drink
The origin of this cocktail dates back to 1919, Florence, Italy. Camillo Negroni visited Café Casoni and asked the bartender to add strength to his favorite cocktail. He asked him to replace soda water with gin. This combination made a strong concoction and became quite famous. Negroni cocktail is named after Camillo. The family then founded a distillery company and produced this cocktail as a ready-made drink. It was sold by the name of Antico Negroni. These days it is also referred as a desert island drink and is a favorite among Italians.
Ingredients and Preparation Method of Negroni Drink
There are only three ingredients, used in the proportion of one part each with ice cubes. Gin, sweet vermouth and Campari are mixed in a cocktail shaker and stirred before serving. There are variations in this Negroni cocktail and the gin may be substituted with vodka or sparkling wine. Another variant of Negroni is made with Clementine. This ingredient takes the taste to a different level. Clementine’s have many health benefits, they are a heart healthy food and a good source of Vitamin C.
Serving Style of Negroni
This drink can is served with a slice of lemon or rather a lemon twist. It can also be garnished with a slice of orange. This cocktail can also be served on the rocks. The drink can be sweetened a bit by adding a portion of orange juice. Alternatively, it can be served with dry vermouth instead of the sweet red vermouth. Negroni is served in martini glasses and tastes best when very cold.
Health and Nutritional Value
The bitters (Campari) that are used in Negroni cocktail are good for the liver. Campari is a spirit or an aperitif, which is prepared by infusing fruits and herbs, barks, spices, or peels in alcohol or water. These bitters improve digestion and are a perfect pre-dinner drink. The Campari content in Negroni makes it a healthy drink and a great appetizer. Campari is also used with soda water, orange juice or wine for taste and health reasons. Campari is also ideal for making sorbet and has a dark red color.