Traditionally designed as an aperitif, the Negroni is smart, savvy and sophisticated.
The origins of this ruby red Italian charmer are widely debated, however as the most common story goes, it was first concocted in Florence, Italy in 1919. According to cocktail lore, Camillo Negroni, an Italian Count, was visiting his regular watering hole, Caffe Casoni and requested his favourite tipple, the Americano, with a little more bite. The bartender replaced the soda water with gin, inadvertently creating one of the most iconic cocktails of all time. An orange garnish was added to the drink to distinguish it from the others. Patrons of Caffe Casoni soon started requesting “one of Count Negroni’s drinks” and it soon became known as the Negroni.
Following this, the Negroni family founded the Negroni Distillery, producing the ready-made drink and the rest is boozy history!
Negroni Week is in full swing! From June 6 – 12 bars all over the world celebrate the Negroni whilst raising money for some worthy charities. COMO The Treasury, Petition and Long Chim at the State Buildings are serving up the classic cocktail with $2.50 from every Negroni going towards Bowel Cancer Australia.
Mixologists at Halford Bar have dreamed up three new Negroni concoctions (plus the original of course) with every $2 donated to Ruah.
So, what’s your poison?
Milano at Midnight
Melbourne Gin Co Gin, Espresso infused Campari, Carpano Antica Formula, Amaro Averna
Forrest & Pine
Poli Marconi 46Gin, Suze, Cocchi Americano Bianco
Bittersweet
Halford Raspberry Gin, Lillet blanc, Campari
Traditional
Tanqueray Gin, Campari, Maidenii Sweet
