Tales from the Bar: The Negroni That Changed Everything

Discover the History, Recipe, and Perfect Ingredients for the Classic Negroni Cocktail

Every great cocktail has a story, and the Negroni’s is one of style, rebellion, and timeless taste. More than just a drink, the Negroni cocktail has become a global icon—served in the best bars and recreated in home bars everywhere. Nearly a century after its invention, the Negroni still holds its place as one of the most beloved classic cocktails in the world.

A Cocktail Born of Boldness

The history of the Negroni begins in Florence, Italy, in 1919. Count Camillo Negroni, a man of charisma and confidence, wanted something stronger than his usual Americano. The bartender swapped soda water for gin, and the result was a drink that was bolder, more complex, and destined to make history.

That daring twist created a cocktail that was instantly unforgettable—bittersweet, balanced, and stylish. From that night forward, the Negroni became a statement: a drink for those who wanted to stand out.

How to Make a Classic Negroni at Home

The secret to the Negroni’s lasting appeal is its simplicity. It takes just three ingredients, in equal parts, to craft one of the world’s most celebrated cocktail recipes:

Gin – crisp, botanical, and refreshing.
Campari Bitter – bold, ruby-red, and bittersweet.
Sweet Vermouth – rich, smooth, and aromatic.

The Classic Negroni Recipe

Add 30ml gin, 30ml Campari, and 30ml sweet vermouth to a mixing glass filled with ice.
Stir until well chilled.
Strain into a short tumbler over a large ice cube.
Garnish with a slice or twist of orange.

That’s it—simple, elegant, and unforgettable.

The Best Negroni Ingredients from The Drink Shop

You don’t need to be in Florence to enjoy this timeless cocktail. With bottles from The Drink Shop, you can create the perfect Negroni in your own home bar:

Gordon’s London Dry Gin – a clean, juniper-led gin that delivers a crisp base.
Campari Bitter – the essential heart of every Negroni, with its bold, bittersweet flavor.
Martini Rosso Vermouth – smooth, slightly sweet, and aromatic, balancing the drink beautifully.

Shop these essentials from The Drink Shop and bring the world’s most iconic cocktail to your home gatherings.

Why the Negroni Is Still the World’s Favorite Cocktail

The Negroni is more than a drink—it’s a ritual. Sipped slowly at golden hour, it embodies sophistication and ease. It’s versatile, too—perfect for intimate dinners, lively parties, or simply treating yourself after a long day.

Its balance of bitter and sweet has inspired countless variations, from the lighter Negroni Sbagliato (with sparkling wine) to the darker Boulevardier (with bourbon). But no matter the twist, the original Negroni remains the gold standard of cocktail culture.

Bring the Legend Home

Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a curious beginner, the Negroni is the drink that elevates any occasion. With just three bottles from The Drink Shop, you can recreate a piece of cocktail history—and start your own tradition, one pour at a time.

Shop gin, vermouth, and Campari today at The Drink Shop, and master the art of the Negroni at home.