The Strawberry Negroni puts a fruit-forward twist on the classic bitter cocktail by using strawberry-infused gin. This version keeps the traditional balance of Campari and sweet vermouth but softens the edges with a burst of berry flavor for a slightly sweeter, more aromatic profile.
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Tasting Notes
The Strawberry Negroni offers a balanced twist on the classic, blending the bittersweet structure of the original with soft fruit flavor. The strawberry-infused gin adds a subtle sweetness and aroma without overpowering the cocktail’s character. Campari delivers its signature bitterness, while sweet vermouth brings depth and warmth. The result is a drink that remains bold and herbaceous but with a lighter, fruit-forward edge. It’s both familiar and refreshed, appealing to Negroni lovers and newcomers alike. The strawberry notes round off the sharpness just enough to make each sip feel slightly softer but still complex and spirit-driven.
Equipment and Glassware
To make a Strawberry Negroni, you’ll need a mixing glass, a bar spoon for stirring, and a strainer to ensure a clean pour into your serving glass. A jigger helps with precise measurements. Use a rocks glass (also known as an Old Fashioned glass), ideally chilled ahead of time to keep the drink cold longer. Add a few fresh ice cubes directly to the glass before serving. A cocktail pick can help secure the strawberry garnish neatly, while mint adds aroma and color. No shaking or blending is needed just a proper stir to chill and dilute slightly.
Ingredients
- 1 oz strawberry-infused gin
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz Campari
- Garnish: Strawberry and mint
Instructions
- Add strawberry-infused gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir until well chilled and properly diluted.
- Strain into a chilled rocks glass.
- Add a few fresh ice cubes.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint and a strawberry.
Pro Tips
- Infuse gin with strawberries for 1–2 days for optimal flavor
- Use clear ice cubes for better appearance and slower dilution
- Chill the rocks glass ahead of time for a colder, longer-lasting drink
- Stir, don’t shake, to avoid cloudiness and over-dilution
- Use high-quality vermouth and store it in the fridge after opening
- Garnish with a small mint sprig to enhance aroma
- Try slightly muddling the strawberry garnish in the glass for extra fruit
- Balance the infusion avoid overly sweet strawberries
- Taste the infused gin on its own to ensure flavor isn’t too overpowering
- For a slightly lighter drink, add a splash of soda water on top
When to Serve
This Strawberry Negroni fits perfectly as a pre-dinner cocktail or during late afternoon gatherings. It’s ideal for Negroni Week, summer happy hours, and stylish brunches. The balance of bitter and sweet, combined with a splash of berry freshness, makes it suitable for warm weather but not limited to it. It’s also a strong option when you want a familiar drink with just enough variation to keep things interesting. Whether served at a rooftop party or a relaxed dinner party, it’s a refined choice that signals both classic taste and a willingness to branch out a bit.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Gin (for infusing)
- Bombay Sapphire
- Beefeater
- Tanqueray
- Sipsmith
Sweet Vermouth
- Carpano Antica Formula
- Cocchi Vermouth di Torino
- Dolin Rouge
- Martini & Rossi Rosso
Campari
- Campari (classic and essential for this recipe)
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 1 oz strawberry-infused gin
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz Campari
- Garnish: Strawberry and mint
Instructions
- Add strawberry-infused gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir until well chilled and properly diluted.
- Strain into a chilled rocks glass.
- Add a few fresh ice cubes.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint and a strawberry.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Infuse gin with fresh strawberries for 24–48 hours for a deep, natural flavor.
- Use a large ice cube to slow dilution and maintain the balance.
- Express a mint leaf over the glass before garnishing to boost aroma.