The Frozen Negroni takes the classic bitter cocktail and gives it a chill, modern update. With gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth blended over ice, it’s bold and boozy but smooth and slushy at the same time. The frozen texture softens the bite, making it easier to sip on a warm day without losing the punch that makes a Negroni what it is. If you like strong drinks with attitude, this frozen twist is worth a try.
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Tasting Notes
The Frozen Negroni keeps the bold, bitter flavor of the original but adds a smooth, icy twist. Gin brings in a dry, herbal base. Campari delivers its signature bitter-orange flavor, while sweet vermouth adds depth with soft spice and light sweetness. Orange juice gives it a fresh citrus kick that brightens the whole drink and smooths out the bitterness. Blended with ice, it turns into a slushy-style drink that feels sharp, cool, and refreshing without losing its bold character. It’s balanced, cold, and just bitter enough to keep things interesting.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a blender for this version nothing fancy, just something strong enough to crush ice smoothly. A jigger or measuring cup helps keep your ratios right. For serving, go with a rocks glass or any short tumbler. No need for garnish, but an orange slice or twist works well if you want to add something extra. Since this drink is served frozen, you don’t need any stirring or shaking gear just a solid blender and a chilled glass. Keep things simple and let the texture and color of the drink speak for itself.
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 2 oz orange juice
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 handful ice cubes
- Orane wheel, for garnish
Instructions
- Add orange juice, gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and ice to a blender.
- Blend until smooth and slushy.
- Pour into a chilled glass.
- Garnish with orange wheel
Pro Tips
- Use large, solid ice cubes for a smoother blend.
- Freeze the orange juice ahead of time for a thicker texture.
- Use a dry gin to balance out the sweet vermouth.
- Add more orange juice if it’s too bitter for your taste.
- Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the drink frozen longer.
- Don’t over-blend or it’ll turn watery.
- Use a splash of soda water after blending for a lighter finish.
- Garnish with a thin orange wheel or twist for a clean look.
When to Serve
The Frozen Negroni is a great choice for hot days or relaxed evenings when you want something cold but still bold. It’s perfect for summer parties, backyard dinners, or any time you’d normally reach for a frozen margarita but want something a little more grown-up. Because it’s easy to batch in the blender, it also works well for small groups. Serve it when you want to offer something refreshing with more depth and just the right amount of bitterness.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Gin:
- Tanqueray (classic and dry)
- Bombay Sapphire (smooth and botanical)
- Beefeater (affordable and balanced)
- Sipsmith (clean with a good citrus note)
Campari:
- Campari (no substitutes this is key to the flavor)
Sweet Vermouth:
- Carpano Antica Formula (rich and deep)
- Cocchi Vermouth di Torino (balanced and smooth)
- Martini & Rossi Rosso (classic and widely available)
Similar Cocktails
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz orange juice
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- Orange wheel for garnish
Instructions
- Add orange juice, gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and ice to a blender.
- Blend until smooth and slushy.
- Pour into a chilled glass.
- Garnish with orange wheel
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use fresh-squeezed orange juice for extra brightness.
- If your blender struggles with ice, crush it slightly beforehand.
- You can freeze the orange juice in advance to make it even slushier.