I recently rediscovered this "great for summer drink"... and I have a feeling it'll be a mainstay from this point on. A throwback to some pool party in LA, oh so long ago...

According to most, the Negroni was born in Italy when some guy decided that the ever popular Americano (Campari, Sweet Vermouth & Soda) needed a little boost and replaced the soda with Gin. Essentially an Aperitif, or digestif (drink served before or after a meal) the idea is that the bitters in it are good for your liver and neutralizes the gin. I'll take it. It's a refreshing easy sipper that'll hit the spot any day or night.

Timing of this drink was perfectly aligned with the purchase of some new bar tools.

While I've been on the search for a replacement bar spoon, strainer and mixing glass... Alana and her mother lead me to the perfect set at the Umami Mart on Divisadaro. 

As always, precision and consistency is king when crafting a cocktail. And whipping up this drink is fun and simply effortless.

The Negroni

Makes one serving

INGREDIENTS

• 1 oz. Campari

• 1 oz. Sweet Vermouth

• 1 oz. Gin (I use Hendrix)

• Citrus twist (orange or lemon)

• Ice

TOOLS

• Mixing Glass
• Strainer
• Bar Spoon
• Old Fashioned Glass
• 1 oz. Jigger
• King Cube Ice Tray

FIX

1. Place one large ice cube in an old fashioned glass, then set aside.
2. Using jigger, pour 1 oz. each of Campari, Vermouth and Gin into a mixing glass.
3. Fill mixing glass with ice.
4. Using a bar spoon, stir the contents for approximately 12 seconds.
5. Remove spoon, place strainer over mixing glass and pour over the large ice cube in the glass set aside.
6. Garnish with and orange or lemon twist and serve.