In recent months, Negroni Cocktails have made a comeback, appearing at weddings, events and holiday gatherings. When carefully crafted, this holiday cocktail blends three liquors and
seasonal spices that smell and taste like Christmas. “Gin is very versatile and when properly
infused, it makes excellent cocktails year-round,” says Ryan Johnson, owner of Sips Cocktail
Catering. This holiday beverage promises to be the star of any gathering and can be paired with heavy appetizers or desserts.
Christmas Negroni
1 oz Campari
1 oz Infused Gin (recipe below)
1 oz Vermouth
Orange peel, cinnamon sticks, star anise for garnish
Recipe Instructions
To make infused gin, toast two cinnamon sticks, two star anise pods, five cloves, a teaspoon of black peppercorns, and three fresh bay leaves in a dry pan until fragrant. Transfer into a mortar and pestle and crush. Add the spices to your ¾ favorite bottle of gin, seal it, and give it a good shake. Leave overnight, or for up to 3 days in a dark space. When ready, strain into a pitcher using a cheesecloth or coffee filter to remove the spice bits. Pour the infused gin back into the bottle and get ready to make the Negronis.
Pour each liquor in an ice filled shaker or mixing glass and stir until cold and blended well. Pour over one large ice cube (sphere ice works the best), twist the orange peel on top and garnish with the cinnamon and anise.
Cheers!