Saturday Cocktailing | The Negroni

Since my last visit to Rome, I've been a big fan of Campari, the ruby red Italian aperitif. When sipping a Campari and soda with an orange, it just feels like you're living la dolce vita, whether you're on a veranda in Southampton or a sweaty studio apartment. So I was pleased to discover the Negroni, a bitter cocktail that perfectly whets the palate before a night of rigatoni bolognese and several glasses of Super Tuscan. Warning - this drink is sort of an acquired taste, so don't come after me if you're not smitten from the first sip. Recipe as follows:

1 shot Campari
1 shot gin
1 shot sweet vermouth (the red one)

Pour ingredients over ice. Stir until very cold (this is key, otherwise it tastes like warm cough syrup). Strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a thick lemon zest. Enjoy.