In 2019 the celebrated Negroni cocktail turned 100 years old. The mixed drink revival has introduced a new audience to this iconic classic.
The drink’s proportions consist of equal measures of Campari, gin, and sweet vermouth. It’s not difficult for the home barman/woman to master, him/herself. It has a timeless elegance and wide appeal. The Negroni: A Love Affair with a Classic Cocktail offers its readers an insight into the drink’s history – from Italy to the rest of the world. It started as a twist on the Americano but is now more famous than its parent libation. The book provides over 20 simple variations penned by drink experts and bartenders from around the globe. There is the Negroni Frappé, Negroni Blanco and several others from the famed bar Dante in New York City; the Londinium Negroni is from one of my favourite bars, Dukes in London, which is usually mentioned as the birthplace of the Vesper Martini. Il Professore from The Grand Hotel Vesuvio in Naples is definitely one to try, and is perfect for cold evenings by the fire.
Garnishes, bitters, tools, glassware
The Negroni: A Love Affair with a Classic Cocktail includes plenty of information on garnishes, bitters, tools, glassware, and even some snacks. There is a section on the importance of the choice of the essential vermouth, along with interviews with bartenders and advice on where to enjoy the best Negroni.
The book is small but of gift quality with lovely original photography of the drinks, along with archival pictures of famous Negroni lovers such as Ernest Hemingway; the location images are charming and evocative. The Negroni: A Love Affair with a Classic Cocktail will be welcomed by any Negroni lover or any cocktail enthusiast.
The Negroni: A Love Affair with a Classic Cocktail
Author: Matt Hranek
Publisher: Artisan Division of Workman Publishing
Price: £12.99
ISBN-13: 978-1579659646