In the late 1800’s in Italy, Italians were raving about a drink called the Americano, which consists of equal parts Campari and Sweet Vermouth, garnished with an orange wheel. However, Count Negroni was no ordinary Italian. He was an aristocrat: and he demanded an aristocrat’s drink. In a stroke of arrogant genius, he instructed his bartender, Giuseppe (not his real name), to add gin to the commonplace Americano. With this simple addition, the Negroni was born.

Giuseppe and the Count’s creation provides a sophisticated, strong summer tonic. Campari, gin, and sweet vermouth are full of herbs, so it must be good for you. The bitterness of the Campari and strength of the gin provide a nice contrast with the inherent sweetness of Campari and Sweet Vermouth. However, I recommend drinking on Saturday afternoon to allow for recovery time.

To make a Negroni combine:

1 oz. Campari

1 oz. Gin

1 oz. Sweet Vermouth

Garnish with an orange wheel.

Of course, if you wish to be common, simply leave out the gin and make an Americano or simply have Campari over rocks with the orange slice. Whatever you do, bring a little of old Italy to your summer and enjoy.