Paul Kushner
The Cherry Negroni is a twist on the classic that keeps the bitter, botanical edge but adds a smooth, fruity layer with cherry liqueur. Gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth lay the foundation, while the cherry liqueur softens the finish and adds depth. Garnished with a cherry and orange peel, it’s bold, balanced, and easy to enjoy great for slow sipping or a quick nightcap.
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Tasting Notes
The Cherry Negroni is a rich and slightly bitter cocktail with a touch of sweetness from the cherry liqueur. The gin gives it a dry and crisp base, while Campari adds its signature bitter-orange edge. Sweet vermouth smooths things out with a herbal warmth, and the cherry liqueur gives a subtle fruit note that softens the bitterness without overwhelming it. The result is balanced and bold with just a hint of sweetness. Garnished with an orange peel and maraschino cherry, it finishes with bright citrus and soft cherry aroma in each sip.
Equipment and Glassware
This is a stirred drink, so you won’t need a shaker. Use a mixing glass, bar spoon, jigger, and a strainer. A peeler will help prep your orange garnish. Choose a rocks glass it’s the classic choice and holds the ice well. You’ll want to use a large ice cube or sphere if possible to keep it chilled longer without watering it down. Chill the glass ahead of time for best results. Nothing too fancy just solid basics and a good stir make this drink come together easily.
Ingredients
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 0.5 oz sweet vermouth
- 0.5 oz cherry liqueur
- Orange peel and maraschino cherry, for garnish
Instructions
- Add gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and cherry liqueur to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir until well chilled, about 20 seconds.
- Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Garnish with an orange peel and maraschino cherry.
Pro Tips
- Use high-quality gin for a cleaner finish.
- Stir longer with larger ice for better dilution.
- A Luxardo cherry gives better flavor than basic maraschino.
- Chill your mixing glass and rocks glass before starting.
- Taste after stirring adjust cherry liqueur for more or less sweetness.
- Try a cherrywood-smoked garnish for a twist.
- Use a bar spoon to gently layer if you want a more visual presentation.
When to Serve
This Cherry Negroni works well in cooler months or evenings when you want something bold and smooth. It’s a great after-dinner drink but also fits into a cocktail hour lineup. Serve it at small gatherings, date nights, or when you want a quick but grown-up pour. The cherry liqueur makes it a bit softer than a classic Negroni, so it’s also nice for folks who prefer slightly less bitterness. It feels right with charcuterie boards, dark chocolate, or rich appetizers.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Gin: Beefeater, Tanqueray, or Bombay Sapphire
- Campari: No substitute—use Campari for that distinct bitterness
- Sweet Vermouth: Carpano Antica, Cocchi Vermouth di Torino, or Dolin Rouge
- Cherry Liqueur: Luxardo Cherry Liqueur or Heering Cherry Liqueur
- Garnish: Use a fresh orange peel and a high-quality maraschino cherry like Luxardo
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 0.5 oz sweet vermouth
- 0.5 oz cherry liqueur
- Orange peel and maraschino cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Add gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and cherry liqueur to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir until well chilled, about 20 seconds.
- Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Garnish with an orange peel and maraschino cherry.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use a high-quality cherry liqueur (like Luxardo) for the best flavor.
- Express the orange peel over the glass to add a hit of citrus aroma.
- Try a split base of dry and sweet vermouth if you want to tone down the sweetness.
