As ANGOSTURA® marks 200 years and the Negroni celebrates a century, it’s the perfect moment to rediscover the allure of this iconic cocktail.
With ANGOSTURA® bitters at its heart, the Negroni’s rich history and enduring appeal offer a timeless tribute to craftsmanship and flavor.
Dive into the story of two legends that continue to shape the world of cocktails.
- The tale of the Negroni dates back to the bustling streets of Florence in the early 20th century, where it emerged as a timeless fixture in cocktail culture over the past century. Its story begins with a simple request: Count Camillo Negroni, seeking a stronger libation, instructed his bartender to swap gin for soda water in his Americano. This simple twist, garnished with a slice of orange, swiftly became a beloved classic. Over the years, ANGOSTURA® bitters have become a vital element, enriching this sophisticated beverage with layers of complexity.
The Negroni’s rise coincided with the euphoric spirit of the Roaring Twenties, a time of revelry, liberation, and inventiveness following the upheaval of war. In the United States, Prohibition prompted bartenders to innovate and create captivating cocktails to mask the harshness of bootlegged spirits. Across the ocean in Europe, the Negroni found a place of honour in Italy’s bustling café scene.
Shake, Stir, Sip: The Ultimate Negroni Recipe
- 30 ml gin
- 30 ml sweet vermouth
- 30 ml Campari
- A dash of ANGOSTURA® aromatic bitters
- Garnish with an orange slice
Stir ingredients over ice and strain into a chilled glass, then garnish.
The Role of ANGOSTURA®
While the original Negroni stands strong on its own, the addition of ANGOSTURA® bitters provides the perfect balance of bitter and sweet, elevating the cocktail’s complexity. For the last century, bartenders around the world have used ANGOSTURA® bitters to refine and perfect this timeless drink.
From Literature to the Silver Screen
The Negroni’s fame extends beyond bars. From Ernest Hemingway to James Bond, it has captured the imaginations of writers and filmmakers. Orson Welles, while filming in Rome, famously praised the Negroni, noting, “The bitters are excellent for your health, the gin is bad for you.”
For more information on the Angostura range and delicious food and cocktail recipes please visit www.angosturabitters.com. Follow Angostura South Africa on Facebook /Angostura South Africa and Instagram @AngosturaZA for fun facts, recipes and brand updates.
