Video: How to make a Negroni

If you learn how to make one cocktail, it should be a Negroni. This is true for many reasons. The drink makes anyone sipping it feel like they’re on a sunlit veranda overlooking Lake Como.

Want to seem like you’re incredibly sophisticated (you are) and well versed in the world of libations? Order a Negroni.

It’s also the perfect combination of bitter, sweet and strong, otherwise known as a well balanced cocktail.

MORE: 26 great cocktails in Los Angeles

But despite its transformative powers, the Negroni is incredibly easy to make. Like really, really easy. All you need is Campari, good gin and sweet vermouth.

Check out our video above on how to make a classic Negroni. Then make a couple at your next party to impress all your friends.

And if you’re looking to really get some wow-we-had-no-idea-you-were-so-smart-and-sophisticated-I-want-to-be-just-like-you looks, here’s a little backstory on your new favorite cocktail.

According to the book “Sulle Tracce del Conte: La Vera Storia del Cocktail Negroni” by Lucca Picchi, head bartender at Caffe Rivoire in Florence, Italy, the first Negroni was made at bar Casoni in Florence. Count Camillo Negroni ordered an Americano, typically made with Campari, sweet vermouth and soda, but asked for gin instead of the soda. And so the Negroni was born.

This week also happens to be Negroni Week, so if you’re looking for where to celebrate, we’ve got a list.

Cheers!

NEGRONI

Total time: About 1 minute | Makes one cocktail

1 ounce Campari

1 ounce gin

1 ounce sweet vermouth

1 orange for garnish

Place a handful of ice in a mixing glass. Pour each liquor over the ice. Stir the mixture for a couple seconds until the mixture is cold. Strain into a pretty glass of your choosing. Garnish with an orange peel.

I don’t always drink cocktails. But when I do. It’s a Negroni. Follow me on Twitter @Jenn_Harris_