How to Make the Select Aperitivo Negroni

The Negroni is a beloved Italian aperitif cocktail and while the equal parts recipe is timeless, using the Italian bitter liqueur Select Aperitivo adds a Venetian twist!

A Brief History of the Classic Negroni

The Negroni’s origins can be traced to Florence, Italy in 1919. Legend claims it was created when Count Camillo Negroni asked his bartender to strengthen his favorite Americano cocktail by replacing soda water with gin.

The bartender chose an equal ratio of gin, sweet vermouth and Campari. This balance of botanical spirit, fortified wine and bitter liqueur formed the template for the Negroni we know and love.

This recipe replaces the Campari with Select and the Sweet Vermouth with Amaro Montenegro – the most popular amaro in Italy.

A Brief History of Select Aperitivo Liqueur

Select Aperitivo was created in 1920 by the Pilla Brothers in Venice with 30 botanicals, balancing sweet and bitter tones with a vibrant ruby red color. Read more about it on my post!

Ingredients & Equipment for the Select Negroni

To make the Select Negroni you will need:

• Select Aperitivo
• Gin such as Plymouth or Tanqueray
• Amaro Montenegro
• Orange twist for garnish

With quality ingredients, you are ready to mix this exceptional modern Negroni riff.

Equipment:

• Jigger
• Strainer
• Mixing glass
• Rocks glass

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Select Aperitivo Negroni

Mixing this cocktail is simple. Just follow these steps:

Step 1: Fill mixing glass with ice

Fill a mixing glass halfway with ice to chill.

Step 2: Add all ingredients

Pour in the Select Aperitivo, gin and Amaro Montenegro.

Step 3: Stir for dilution

Stir gently for 30 seconds to a minute to dilute and chill.

Step 4: Strain into chilled glass

Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass.

Step 5: Garnish and enjoy!

Express an orange twist over the top and drop it in the glass. Savor this bitter-sweet Italian aperitif!

And that’s all it takes to mix a stellar Select Negroni! The key is using an equal ratio of the 3 core ingredients so no one flavor overpowers.

Achieving the Perfect Select Negroni Balance

One of the Negroni’s appeals is how easy it is to mix in equal thirds. But feel free to tweak the proportions to find your ideal balance.

• Select Aperitivo – provides herbaceousness, floral notes and subtle sweetness
• Gin – the core base spirit that brings botanical flavors
• Amaro Montenegro – this spirit also brings an herbal sweetness to the drink

Adjusting ratios ever so slightly can craft a Negroni tailored to your taste. Play with the ingredients until you land on your perfect permutation.

Serving Suggestions for the Select Negroni

Certain serving practices can elevate your Negroni experience:

• Serve chilled, either from the freezer or over a large ice cube
• Choose a rocks, old fashioned or coupe-style glass
• Garnish with orange twists or slices to accent the fruit
• Accompany with light appetizers like charcuterie, cheeses and olives
• Use premium ice cubes or spheres for maximum chilling without dilution
• Make a pitcher batch for easy pouring at gatherings and parties

However you choose to enjoy it, the Select Aperitivo Negroni is a great aperitivo cocktail!

Bottom’s up!

Here are a few other Select Aperitivo recipes for you to try!

Here is the recipe!!