The Fireside Negroni is a smoky and sophisticated twist on the timeless Negroni. I love how it blends the familiar bitterness of Campari with the warmth of smoky gin and a touch of sweet vermouth. Every sip feels cozy, like sitting beside a crackling fire on a chilly evening. This cocktail is simple to make, visually striking, and perfect for gatherings or quiet nights in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between bitter, sweet, and smoky. It’s quick to prepare—ready in just five minutes—and always impresses guests with its deep ruby color and bold aroma. I can easily adjust the smokiness or sweetness depending on my mood, and it pairs beautifully with everything from charcuterie boards to dark chocolate.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 oz (30 ml) smoky gin (I like using a barrel-aged gin or adding a drop of liquid smoke)
1 oz (30 ml) Campari
1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth
1 dash orange bitters (optional but adds great depth)
Ice cubes
Garnish: orange peel (I sometimes char it for extra smokiness)
Directions
I start by chilling a rocks glass—either by placing it in the freezer for a few minutes or filling it with ice water.
In a mixing glass, I add the smoky gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and orange bitters. Then I fill it with large ice cubes.
I stir gently for about 25–30 seconds until the mixture is perfectly chilled and slightly diluted.
After discarding the ice water from my chilled glass, I strain the cocktail over a large ice cube.
I finish by expressing the oils from an orange peel over the drink, rubbing it along the rim, and dropping it in. For an elevated smoky touch, I char the peel lightly with a kitchen torch before garnishing.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields 1 serving.
Prep time: 3 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes
Variations
Spiced Fireside Negroni: I add a pinch of cinnamon or star anise for a cozy, aromatic flavor.
Fireside Boulevardier: I swap the gin for bourbon to get a deeper, sweeter cocktail.
Smoky Mezcal Negroni: I replace gin with smoky mezcal for an earthy, agave-forward variation.
Storage/Reheating
If I happen to have leftovers (which is rare), I store the mixed Negroni in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When I’m ready to serve again, I give it a quick stir and add a fresh garnish. Without ice, the base mix keeps well for up to 3 days chilled.
FAQs
Can I make the Fireside Negroni ahead of time?
Yes, I often mix the spirits in advance and chill them. I just make sure to add the ice and garnish right before serving.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of this cocktail?
Definitely. I use non-alcoholic gin, aperitif, and vermouth substitutes, and add a drop of liquid smoke to keep that signature flavor.
What if I don’t have smoky gin?
I make my own version by adding a tiny drop of liquid smoke to regular gin or blending it with a splash of peated whisky.
How do I get the best presentation?
I use a large, clear ice cube for a slow melt and serve it in a chilled rocks glass with a freshly charred orange peel.
What snacks go well with a Fireside Negroni?
I love pairing it with smoked almonds, aged cheese, or dark chocolate. These pairings bring out the cocktail’s smoky-sweet balance beautifully.
Conclusion
The Fireside Negroni is my go-to cocktail for when I want something that feels both timeless and a little indulgent. It’s a simple recipe that delivers incredible depth, a bit of drama with the smoky twist, and that unmistakable Negroni sophistication. Whether I’m unwinding by the fire or entertaining guests, this drink never fails to set the perfect mood.
The Fireside Negroni is a smoky, sophisticated twist on the classic Negroni. With barrel-aged or smoky gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and a touch of orange bitters, it’s a cozy cocktail perfect for chilly evenings or stylish gatherings.
Total Time:5 minutes
Yield:1 serving
Ingredients
1 oz (30 ml) smoky gin (barrel-aged or with a drop of liquid smoke)
1 oz (30 ml) Campari
1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth
1 dash orange bitters (optional)
Ice cubes
Garnish: orange peel (charred, optional)
Instructions
Chill a rocks glass by placing it in the freezer or filling it with ice water.
In a mixing glass, combine smoky gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and orange bitters.
Fill the mixing glass with large ice cubes and stir gently for 25–30 seconds.
Discard the ice water from the chilled glass and strain the cocktail over a large ice cube.
Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink, rub it along the rim, and drop it in. Optionally, char the peel before garnishing for extra smokiness.
Notes
Use a large clear ice cube for better presentation and slower dilution.
Char the orange peel for added aroma and visual flair.
Store the mixed drink (without ice) in the fridge for up to 3 days.
