Paul Kushner
I have a passion for reinventing tried-and-true recipes in my own distinctive way. The Rum Negroni is one of my favorite cocktails, and I wanted to tell you about it today. Substituting rum for gin makes this cocktail a lovely twist on the traditional Negroni, making it smoother and somewhat sweeter. If you’re looking for a sophisticated cocktail with some depth and character, this one’s for you. The Rum Negroni is an absolute must-try, so let’s get into why.
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Tasting Notes
Rum Negroni is a delectable cocktail that waltzes on the taste buds with its rich, velvety texture and balanced sweetness and bitterness. The vermouth imparts a nuanced, herbaceous undertone, while the rum’s inherent sweetness harmonizes with Campari’s harshness. The drink is expertly balanced, with a sweet, silky beginning and a tangy, invigorating end that complement each sip.
Equipment and Glassware
A strainer, a bar spoon, and a mixing glass are the essential bar utensils for creating a Rum Negroni. The traditional, old-fashioned glass is ideal for serving. The sophisticated glassware enhances the drink’s aesthetic and guarantees a pleasant drinking experience.
Ingredients
- 1 oz. dark, spiced rum
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz. sweet vermouth
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add the rum, Campari, and sweet vermouth to the mixing glass.
- Stir for about 20-30 seconds, or until the mixture is well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a slice of orange or a twist of orange peel, if desired.
Pro Tips
- Choose a premium aged rum for a more refined flavor.
- Try a variety of vermouths until you discover one with the right balance of sweetness and floral notes.
- To keep the drink from becoming overly watered down, use only new ice.
When to Serve
The versatility of the Rum Negroni makes it an ideal cocktail for any event. Impressive as an aperitif to whet the appetite before dinner, it’s also classy enough for a nightcap. This cocktail is perfect for every occasion, from a more relaxed get-together to a more formal fête.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Selecting premium Rum Negroni brands is essential. Try some Appleton Estate or Mount Gay rum; they’re both smooth and flavorful. When looking for a sweet vermouth, try Carpano Antica Formula or Dolin. As for Campari, well, you can’t go wrong with Campari.
Similar Cocktails
- Classic Negroni – The original gin-based counterpart.
- Boulevardier – A whiskey variation for a richer twist.
- Aperol Negroni – A lighter, more citrusy version.
- White Negroni – A milder, less bitter take using Lillet Blanc.
- Mezcal Negroni – For a smoky flavor profile.
History
The legendary Negroni drink has been around since the turn of the twentieth century in Italy. Legend has it that Count Camillo Negroni requested his bartender to make an Americano with more gin and less soda water, his favorite cocktail, and thus the cocktail was born. A contemporary take on the original Negroni, the Rum Negroni adds a softer, more complex flavor profile while capitalizing on the world’s rum obsession.
Ingredients
- 1 oz dark spiced rum
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add the rum, Campari, and sweet vermouth to the mixing glass.
- Stir for about 20-30 seconds, or until the mixture is well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a slice of orange or a twist of orange peel, if desired.
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