First things first — sorry it’s been a little while between posts! Life’s been a bit full lately (as it tends to get), but I’m happy to be back at it and sharing more of the things I love. And what better way to get back into the rhythm than with a drink that’s close to my heart — the Negroni.
Now that winter’s well and truly arrived here in Australia, I find myself craving drinks that don’t just taste good, but feel good — something bold and warming to cut through the cold. For me, nothing beats a Negroni when the weather cools. It’s strong, bitter, beautifully balanced, and always hits the spot.
Why I Love It
The Negroni is my go-to drink, especially in winter. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the way its bitterness, sweetness, and strength come together. It’s punchy, but elegant — the kind of cocktail that makes you pause for a moment after the first sip.
And let’s be honest, there’s a bit of theatre in making one too, which I love.
Classic Negroni Recipe
Ingredients:
- 30ml Gin (use a bold, botanical-forward one)
- 30ml Campari
- 30ml Sweet Vermouth (Carpano Antica or Cocchi Vermouth di Torino are top picks)
Glass:
- Old Fashioned glass (also called a rocks glass or short tumbler)
Ice:
- One large cube is ideal — it chills the drink without watering it down too quickly
(Avoid regular ice cubes if you can — they melt too fast and dilute the flavour.)
Garnish:
- A twist of orange peel, with a good bit of essential oil
- You can also rim the glass with the peel or a fresh slice of orange before you drop it in — it gives a beautiful citrus lift right off the top
How to Make It (The Proper Way)
- Add your gin, Campari, and vermouth to a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir gently for about 20–30 seconds — just enough to chill and dilute slightly, but not overdo it.
- Strain into your Old Fashioned glass over a big ice cube.
- Express an orange peel over the drink by twisting it over the glass — then run it along the rim before dropping it in.
- Take a second. Admire it. Sip slowly.
Perfect for Winter
A Negroni isn’t warm in temperature, but it’s warming in spirit — that herbal bitterness and the deep, smooth richness of the vermouth make it feel like the kind of drink you want to enjoy while wrapped in a jumper, maybe with some slow music in the background, or just a good conversation.
It’s not a sugary cocktail. It’s mature, bold, and honest — and sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never made a Negroni at home before, now’s the perfect time. It’s simple in ingredients but rich in experience. Once you get your ratios and rhythm down, it becomes something you look forward to — a little winter ritual.
I’ll be back soon with more posts — thanks for sticking around, and cheers to sipping something special this season.
Mood & Muse 
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