Paul Kushner
The Watermelon Negroni is a summer-ready twist on the classic. It keeps the familiar bitter-sweet balance of a traditional Negroni but adds a splash of fresh watermelon juice for a juicy, slightly lighter finish. Gin gives it structure, Campari brings the bitter edge, and sweet vermouth ties it together with a rich, herbal note. The watermelon juice softens the profile just enough to make it feel a little more relaxed. It’s bright, bold, and great for sipping on warm days.
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Tasting Notes
This version of a Negroni adds a juicy, fresh twist to the classic. The watermelon juice softens the bitterness of the Campari and adds a mellow sweetness without taking over. Gin still gives it structure, while sweet vermouth keeps that smooth, herbal base. The result is a drink that’s slightly bitter, slightly sweet, and very refreshing. It finishes clean with a hint of melon in the background. It’s lighter than a traditional Negroni, but still keeps its character. It’s great for people who want something bold but a little more relaxed.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a mixing glass or shaker, a bar spoon, jigger, and a strainer. A citrus press is helpful if you’re making fresh watermelon juice at home, though a blender and fine strainer work just as well. A rocks glass or short tumbler is ideal. Add a large ice cube or a few regular ones to keep the drink chilled without watering it down too fast. If you’re prepping the juice in advance, make sure to strain it well so your drink stays smooth.
Ingredients
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz watermelon juice
- Watermelon slice, for garnish
Instructions
- Add gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and watermelon juice to a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir for about 20–25 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a small watermelon slice.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh watermelon juice bottled versions tend to be too sweet.
- Strain the juice for a cleaner texture.
- Stir, don’t shake, to preserve the classic Negroni style.
- A large cube of ice melts slower and keeps it chilled longer.
- Chill your glass ahead of time for the best result.
- Add a pinch of salt to the watermelon before juicing for extra flavor.
- Try a flavored gin if you want to mix things up.
- Taste before serving you can adjust sweetness by changing the juice amount.
When to Serve
This Watermelon Negroni is a great drink for warm afternoons, early evenings, or casual gatherings where something a little different is welcome. It fits in well at a summer BBQ or rooftop hangout, especially when you want something slightly bitter but still easy to sip. It’s light enough for the daytime but works as a pre-dinner drink too. If your guests like a classic Negroni, this one offers a nice seasonal twist without straying too far.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Gin:
- Beefeater (classic and balanced)
- Ford’s Gin (great for mixing)
- Bombay Sapphire (light with floral notes)
Campari:
- Campari is the go-to; no need to substitute.
Sweet Vermouth:
- Carpano Antica Formula (rich and full-bodied)
- Cocchi Vermouth di Torino (more aromatic)
Watermelon Juice:
- Make it fresh or use cold-pressed juice with no added sugar.
Similar Cocktails
Equipment
- Fine strainer
Ingredients
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz watermelon juice
- Watermelon slice for garnish
Instructions
- Add gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and watermelon juice to a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir for about 20–25 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a small watermelon slice.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use freshly juiced watermelon for the cleanest flavor—store-bought juice can be too sweet or dull.
- Express the orange peel over the glass before dropping it in to boost the aroma.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, double strain to remove pulp from the watermelon juice.
