Spiced Negroni
A winter twist on the classic Negroni, with gin, sweet vermouth and Campari rounded out by a touch of cinnamon-orange spiced syrup and a fragrant orange peel.
Ingredients
- 30 ml gin
- 30 ml sweet vermouth
- 30 ml Campari
- 10 ml cinnamon-orange spiced syrup — see tips to make your own
- 1 strip of orange peel, to garnish
Method
- Add the gin, sweet vermouth, Campari and spiced syrup to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir well for around 20 to 30 seconds until thoroughly chilled and slightly diluted.
- Strain into a rocks glass over a large piece of fresh ice.
- Express the orange peel over the surface to release its oils, then drop it in.
- Stir once and serve.
How to serve
- Glassware
- Rocks glass
- Serve temperature
- Chilled
- Garnish
- Expressed orange peel
The Negroni needs little introduction: equal parts gin, sweet vermouth and Campari, balanced between bitter and sweet. This winter version keeps that elegant backbone but folds in a little cinnamon-orange spiced syrup, lending warmth and a festive fragrance without tipping the balance. It is a drink that suits a frosty evening and a quiet fireside.
Tips
Make the spiced syrup ahead so it has time to cool and infuse: gently warm equal parts sugar and water with a cinnamon stick and strips of orange peel, then strain. Stir the drink over plenty of ice for a full half-minute to achieve the right chill and dilution. Always express the orange peel over the glass, as those citrus oils are part of the aroma.
A Winter Note
The pairing of juniper, citrus and warm spice runs through many cold-weather drinks. If you enjoy that combination, Hot Apple Gin offers a warmer, fruit-led take on gin for the season. Both show how readily gin lends itself to wintry flavours.
Variations
A bolder, more aromatic gin stands up well to the spice, so reach for something with backbone. Those who like a sweeter glass can add a touch more syrup, while a dash of orange bitters sharpens the citrus note. For a smokier edge, a barrel-aged gin makes a fine substitute.
Frequently asked questions
How do I make cinnamon-orange spiced syrup?
Warm equal parts caster sugar and water with a cinnamon stick and a few strips of orange peel until the sugar dissolves, simmer briefly, then cool and strain. It keeps for a week or two chilled.
Why stir a Negroni rather than shake it?
Stirring chills and dilutes the drink while keeping it clear and silky. Shaking would aerate it and cloud the colour, which is not what you want in a spirit-forward Negroni.
Can I serve a spiced Negroni warm?
A Negroni is traditionally served chilled over ice, and that is how this winter twist shines. The spiced syrup brings the seasonal warmth without changing the serve.
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