Hey y’all! If you’re searching for a cocktail that’s equal parts bold, cozy, and sophisticated, let me introduce you to the Fireside Negroni. This spirited twist on the classic Negroni features smoky notes and citrusy warmth, making it the ultimate sipper for cool evenings around the fire or gatherings with friends. It’s easy to prepare, utterly delicious, and the perfect conversation starter for any occasion. Let’s get mixing!
Why You’ll Love This Fireside Negroni
- Balanced blend of bitter, sweet, and smoky flavors for a truly unique cocktail experience.
- Quick to mix—just five minutes from start to sip!
- Impresses guests with its bold aroma and gorgeous ruby hue.
- Customizable: easily adjust the smokiness or sweetness to your taste.
- Pairs beautifully with a wide variety of snacks and festive appetizers.
Fireside Negroni Ingredients
- 1 oz (30 ml) smoky gin (e.g., a barrel-aged gin or add a drop of liquid smoke)
- 1 oz (30 ml) Campari
- 1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth (choose a high-quality brand for best results)
- 1 dash orange bitters (optional but recommended for extra depth)
- Ice cubes
- Garnish: Orange peel (charred for extra smokiness, if desired)
How to Make the Fireside Negroni
Step 1: Chill Your Glass
Place a rocks glass in the freezer for at least 5 minutes or fill it with ice water to chill while you build your cocktail.
Step 2: Build the Fireside Negroni
In a mixing glass, add the smoky gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and orange bitters. Fill the mixing glass with large ice cubes.
Step 3: Stir and Strain
Stir the mixture gently for 25-30 seconds until well-chilled and slightly diluted. Discard the ice water from your chilled rocks glass, then strain the Negroni over a large ice cube in the glass.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Express the oils of an orange peel over the cocktail by twisting it above the drink, then rub the peel gently over the rim. For elevated smoky flavor, briefly char the orange peel with a kitchen torch before garnishing. Serve immediately and enjoy your Fireside Negroni!
Fireside Negroni Notes
- For a deeper smoky flavor, swap gin for a mix of gin and a splash of peated Scotch whisky (see more here).
- Use large, clear ice cubes to minimize dilution and keep your cocktail colder longer.
- For more on the Negroni and its history, check out this guide on Bon Appétit.
Fireside Negroni Variations
- Spiced Fireside Negroni: Add a dash of ground cinnamon or star anise to the mixing glass.
- Fireside Boulevardier: Replace gin with bourbon for a richer, sweeter twist.
- Smoky Mezcal Negroni: Substitute gin with smoky mezcal for an agave-forward flavor.
Required Equipment for Fireside Negroni
- Mixing glass
- Bar spoon
- Jigger
- Strainer
- Rocks glass
- Kitchen torch (for charring orange peel, optional)
Fireside Negroni Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers (unlikely!), store your mixed Fireside Negroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir before serving, and always add the garnish just before pouring. Prepared without ice, the base will last up to 3 days chilled.
Serving & Pairing Recommendations for Fireside Negroni
- Serve Fireside Negroni alongside savory appetizers like smoked almonds, charcuterie boards, or aged cheese.
- For a sweet pairing, try dark chocolate or candied orange peels for a decadent treat.
- The complexity of the Fireside Negroni shines when enjoyed slowly in good company by the fireplace, making it a perfect cocktail hour centerpiece.
Fireside Negroni Pro Tips
- Use premium gin, vermouth, and Campari for best flavor and a velvety mouthfeel (expert tips).
- Always stir—never shake—your Fireside Negroni to preserve clarity and taste.
- Expressing and charring the orange peel right before garnishing releases more aromatic oils and smoky notes.
Fireside Negroni FAQ
- Can I make the Fireside Negroni in advance?
- Yes! Mix the spirits in advance and chill until serving, but garnish and add ice just before enjoying.
- Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Fireside Negroni?
- Certainly! Substitute non-alcoholic gin, aperitif, and vermouth alternatives; a drop of liquid smoke brings smokiness without the booze.
- What if I don’t have smoky gin?
- You can infuse regular gin with a single drop of liquid smoke or use a half ounce of peated whisky for a similar effect.
Prep time: 3 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes
Yields: 1 cocktail
Ingredients
- 1 oz London dry gin
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz Campari
- 1/4 oz smoky Scotch whisky
- 1 dash orange bitters
- 1 orange peel (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
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1Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes.
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2Add gin, sweet vermouth, Campari, smoky Scotch whisky, and orange bitters to the mixing glass.
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3Stir well for about 30 seconds until thoroughly chilled.
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4Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
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5Garnish with an expressed orange peel over the glass, then drop it in.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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