Making a Smoked Negroni: A New Twist on the Italian Classic

The Negroni, a timeless Italian classic, is revered for its perfect balance of bitterness, sweetness, and botanical complexity. This guide will explore elevating this iconic cocktail by introducing a smoky twist, transforming the traditional Negroni into a Smoked Negroni. This contemporary variant adds an intriguing depth to the original flavor profile.

Here's the Ingredients you will need:

• 1-ounce gin
• 1 ounce Campari
• 1-ounce sweet vermouth
• Ice cubes
• Orange peel for garnish
• Quality wood chips for smoking (hickory or applewood suggested)

You will also need some Equipment to ensure the results:

• Cocktail mixing glass (You can mix on your glass, but a cocktail mix is always a plus). 
• Stirring spoon
• Strainer
• Rocks glass
• Butane torch and Smoked Fashioned Co. smoking kit

Instructions:

1. Preparation: Begin by chilling your rocks glass. The key to a great Smoked Negroni, much like the classic old-fashioned, lies in the meticulous preparation of the cocktail.
2. Mixing the Cocktail: In your cocktail mixing glass, combine gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. These ingredients form the core of the Negroni, providing a harmonious blend of herbal, sweet, and bitter notes reminiscent of the old-fashioned ingredients that have stood the test of time.
3. Stirring: Add ice to the mixing glass and stir the cocktail gently. The goal here is to chill the drink while maintaining its silky texture – a crucial step in ensuring the cocktail's quality.
4. Smoking the Glass: This is where the magic happens. Using your butane torch and wood chips, create a smoke-filled chamber to infuse the glass. The type of wood chips you choose will impact the cocktail's final aroma and flavor, adding a layer of complexity, much like selecting the right old-fashioned ingredients.
5. Serving: Strain the mixed Negroni into the smoked glass. The smoky aroma should be enticing, adding an innovative twist to the traditional method of enjoying a Negroni.
6. Garnishing: Express an orange peel over the glass to release its oils, and then place it in the drink. This citrus garnish complements the smoky notes, enhancing the sensory experience.

Just like that, you'll face the best Negroni of your life, guaranteed. But if you still want to go the extra mile for even more flavor, we gathered some additional expert tips to increase the quality of your Negroni: 

• Flavor Balance: The Smoked Negroni, akin to crafting an old-fashioned recipe, requires a keen sense of balance. The smokiness should not overpower the cocktail's intrinsic flavors but rather complement them. Experiment with different types of wood chips to find the perfect match for your palate.
• Quality Ingredients: Just as in an old-fashioned, the quality of ingredients in a Negroni significantly influences the cocktail's taste. Opt for high-quality gin, Campari, and vermouth.
• Customization: Feel free to adjust the ratios to suit your taste. Some aficionados prefer a stronger gin presence, while others might lean towards a sweeter or more bitter profile.

Conclusion:

The Smoked Negroni is more than just a cocktail; it's an experience. By incorporating the art of smoking into this Italian classic, you unlock a new dimension of flavors. It's a testament to how traditional recipes like the old-fashioned can evolve into new, exciting forms without losing their essence.

Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or a curious enthusiast, this Smoked Negroni recipe offers a gateway into a world of aromatic complexity and refined taste – a perfect addition to your cocktail repertoire.

Looking for more recipes? Check them out here.