If you have not tried a Negroni yet, you have likely been taken aback by the layer upon layer of spirits that make up this centenary drink that has risen to become 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, 101 years ago, when Count Camillo Negroni famously asked his bartender Fosco Scarselli to add a measure of gin to his regular Milano-Torino aperitivo cocktail. It is rumoured that the Count, a well-travelled gentleman who had spent long periods in The United States and even enjoyed dressing as a cowboy, 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, sometimes 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 that still holds a place close to the hearts of all Fiorentini. Unfortunately, the location at Via dell Spada 10, in Florence’s historical centre is now closed, as the final re-incarnation of the old Café Cassoni locked its doors a few years back. Don’t despair, however, as you will find many bars across town that will be able to serve you a great Negroni, from the also historical Café Gilli, to the newer more contemporary additions of Locale and Maniffatura.
Making a Negroni at home takes only a little practice, all you need to do is follow the 3 easy steps below. Feel free to play with the ratios between the drinks and also adventuring a bit further afield and trying other Negroni variations like the Sbagliato or substituting Gin for the now so intriguing Mezcal.