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These classic Negroni variations are so good, they’re improvements on the original! Try each one, from bubbly to smoky to bourbon-based.
The classic Negroni is at the top of the popularity chart these days. It’s a bit of a surprise hit, since its searing bitter flavor isn’t quite the formula for a crowd pleaser. But it’s the drink of the moment! Here’s a secret for you: we like all of these Negroni variations better than the classic drink itself!
There are so many types of Negronis, like the Boulevardier, where spicy bourbon is a better balance for the drink than gin. Or the Negroni Sbagliato, a bubbly version using Prosecco instead of gin. And then a favorite, the ultra unique White Negroni. Let’s get mixing!
And now…the top Negroni variations to try!
You’ll love this cocktail if you love a Negroni…and Negroni-haters will love it too! Meet the Negroni sbagliato, a “mixed up” Negroni variation using sparkling wine instead of gin. The lightly sweet Prosecco against the bitter Campari and sweet vermouth makes for a better balanced flavor than with gin. Plus...who can’t resist a little bubbly!
Ingredients: Campari, sweet vermouth, Prosecco
Here's a Negroni variation that's a classic cocktail itself: the Boulevardier! This drink was was invented in the 1920’s as a variation on the Negroni that swaps gin for whiskey. It’s smooth, rich, spicy, bitter, and warm all at once. The vibrant red jewel tone makes it stunning to look at. The sweetness of the bourbon balances the Campari better than gin. In fact, consider it an improvement!
Ingredients: Campari, sweet vermouth, bourbon whiskey
Here’s a fun twist on the theme: he Aperol Negroni! Swap out bitter Campari for Aperol and you’ve got an entirely different drink. Aperol is sweeter, making a milder drink with a subtle citrus essence. If you're looking for creative ways to use Aperol outside of the spritz, this is the perfect idea!
Ingredients: Aperol, sweet vermouth, gin
Here’s another Negroni variation that improves on the classic: the mezcal Negroni! This drink takes all that’s good about a Negroni, and makes it even better. The intense smokiness of mezcal perfectly balances the sweetness of the vermouth and bitterness of Campari. It's perfect for slow sipping!
Ingredients: Campari, sweet vermouth, mezcal
This Negroni variation is also a classic cocktail itself: the Americano! In fact, the Americano pre-dates the Negroni, and was inspiration for the drink. It dates back to the 1860's in Italy. The Americano, named for being popular with American tourists, is bitter, complex and bubbly all at once! Starring Campari and vermouth, it’s both sophisticated and carefree at the same time.
Ingredients: Campari, sweet vermouth, soda water
This crisp, punchy Negroni variation is sleek and sippable: the Old Pal cocktail! It’s complex and spirit-forward, a unique whiskey cocktail if you love dry cocktails like a Negroni or a Manhattan. The Old Pal pairs bitter Campari with dry vermouth and fiery rye whiskey into a drink that’s dry, bitter and spicy all at once
Ingredients: Campari, dry vermouth, rye whiskey
When it comes to Negroni variations, we tend to like them even better than the original. Such is the case with the Cynar Negroni! This intriguing spin features Cynar, an Italian amaro with hints of caramel, toffee and an herbal bitter finish. It makes a bitter, mellow Negroni that’s even more interesting to drink.
Ingredients: Gin, Cynar, sweet vermouth
Here's a fun Negroni variation that every adventurous drinker needs to try: the White Negroni! This lighter spin has a vibrant, clear yellow color that’s unmistakable. And the flavor? Light, a little floral, still bitter, but decidedly more interesting than the classic. It swaps out two ingredients: in place of the Campari it’s Suze, a French bitter aperitif liqueur. In place of the sweet vermouth, this drink uses Lillet Blanc, a fortified wine.
Ingredients: Suze, Lillet Blanc, gin
A little Negroni history…
The classic Negroni is an Italian cocktail made of gin, sweet vermouth and Campari. It was invented back in the 1920’s by a Count Negroni in Florence, Italy (or so the story goes). Apparently a man named Count Negroni ordered an Americano, but wanted it with a little more kick. He asked for it with gin and the Negroni was born!
The Negroni is a classic cocktail that’s on the list of International Bartender Association’s IBA official cocktails. Two more related Negroni variations are also on the IBA official list: the Boulevardier and Americano.
