That's right, there's a winter version too.

What you need to know before you start

There is some preparation involved in making a winter negroni at home. You’ll need a saucepan, frypan, large jug and glasses of your choice. However, the recipe comes together quickly, and you can make the drinks in batches rather than one at a time. This recipe does contain alcohol, so keep this away from those under 18. 

Why is this the best winter negroni recipe?

This seasonal twist on a classic negroni cocktail recipe is the perfect drink to enjoy when cool nights begin to set in. Served over ice and featuring a caramelised orange slice, it features all the elements of a classic negroni but with a warming winter spin. The results are a bold, bittersweet alcoholic beverage with complex layers of dark caramelised orange. 

While it’s called a ‘winter’ beverage, there’s no stopping you from enjoying this refreshing drink at your summer dinner party, Christmas festivities or when you’re enjoying a nightcap after a long day. 

What is a classic negroni made of?

A traditional negroni is made from equal parts gin, sweet vermouth and Campari. It’s served over ice and often garnished with an orange peel.

The versatility of a negroni means it can be easily customisable. Try it as a white negroni, spiced negroni or even an Australian negroni. 

Is a negroni better with Aperol or Campari?

Traditionally, Campari is used to make a negroni. In this recipe we also choose Campari, however you’re free to use Aperol for a lighter, sweeter taste.

What ingredients you’ll need

Caster sugar: Sugar is used for both the orange slice garnish and in the juniper berry syrup to add sweetness. 

Orange: Both orange slices and orange juice is used in this recipe. The fruit is sliced to create the garnish while the juice imparts sweetness and body to the syrup. 

Juniper berries (optional): A juniper berry is a small round fruit that has a distinct woody, citrussy flavour. It’s used in the syrup to infuse it with herbal notes. 

Ice cubes: Ice chills the drinks and slightly dilutes the flavour as it melts for a more mellow drink. 

Gin: Gin provides a clean, botanical base with notes of juniper and citrus.

Red vermouth: Vermouth adds a rich, sweet and herbal layer, balancing the bitterness of the Campari and complementing the gin’s botanicals with flavours.

Campari: Campari gives the Negroni its signature bitter, herbal punch.

How do you make a winter negroni?

The hero component of our winter negroni is the orange slices. Traditionally, the peel is added as a garnish to the final dish, however in our winter-themed version, orange slices are dipped in caster sugar and cooked on either side until dark, caramelised and sticky.

Before the drink comes together, a simple syrup of juniper berries, orange juice and caster sugar is prepared on the stovetop. Set this aside while you combine the alcohols in a jug. 

How to serve a winter negroni

Serve your winter negroni over ice in your favourite glass. Pour over the alcohol before finishing with the warm syrup and an orange slice. Enjoy it as is, or pair it with your favourite cocktail snacks like arancini, vegetable crudites with dip or antipasti. 

If you love our winter negroni recipe, try this 

For more delicious alcoholic cocktail ideas, try these at your next party. Cin cin!

• Sazerac cocktail 
• Tommy’s margarita
• Aperol spritz