Watermelon Negroni Cocktail Recipe

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Watermelon Negroni Nutrition Facts

Calories:200

Fat:0g

Protein:0g

Carbohydrates:20g

Alcohol:22%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: January 7, 2024

History

The Watermelon Negroni is a refreshing twist on the classic Negroni cocktail. Traditionally, a Negroni is made with equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. The Watermelon Negroni, however, infuses the crisp and summery flavor of fresh watermelon into the mix, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a bittersweet cocktail with a fruity note.

  • Origins: The classic Negroni has its roots in Florence, Italy, and was invented by Count Camillo Negroni in the 1920s. The watermelon version is a more contemporary variation that has gained popularity in recent years, especially in upscale bars and during the summer months.
  • Popularity: This cocktail is particularly beloved by those who appreciate the original Negroni but are looking for something a bit lighter and more refreshing.

How Watermelon Negroni Tastes?

The Watermelon Negroni has a harmonious balance of sweet and bitter flavors. The watermelon's natural sweetness and juiciness cut through the bitterness of the Campari, while the gin provides a botanical complexity. The sweet vermouth ties it all together with a smooth, herbal finish.

Interesting facts about Watermelon Negroni

  • Watermelon is not a traditional Negroni ingredient, but it adds a unique and refreshing twist.
  • The Watermelon Negroni is often enjoyed as a summer cocktail due to its refreshing qualities.
  • The cocktail's color is a vibrant pinkish-red, which makes it visually appealing and perfect for festive occasions.

Ingredients

A few good options for Watermelon Negroni are:

  • Brockmans
  • Silent Pool Gin
  • Hendrick's Gin

Learn everything on which Gin to choose

Gin

Gin is the spine of our Watermelon Negroni, offering a botanical kick that dances gracefully with sweet and bitter companions. Opt for less, and you'll miss its juniper melody; too much, and it'll overshadow the ensemble. Alternative: Vodka can sub in for a cleaner, more neutral canvas.

Mary Mitkina

Campari

Campari brings a bitter charm to the party, keeping the sweetness in check like a well-intentioned chaperone. Without it, the cocktail loses its signature balance. Alternative: Aperol for a gentler bitterness and a touch of orange flavor.

Alex Green

Sweet Vermouth

This fortified wine adds herbal whispers and a kiss of sweetness, rounding out the trio. Less could make the drink too sharp; more, and you'd tip into cloying territory. Alternative: Dry vermouth if you fancy a drier twist with less sweetness.

Emma Rose

Fresh Watermelon Juice

It's the surprise guest, turning heads with its refreshing splash. It softens the edges and brings a summery vibe, without it, you're just wearing winter clothes at the beach. No Alternative: It's a watermelon cocktail. Don’t mess with the melon.

Mary Mitkina

Watermelon Slice

A garnish that doubles as a snack, and who doesn’t love a bonus? It's the visual cue to what's inside, giving a little nudge-nudge to the tastebuds before the first sip.

Alex Green

Orange Peel

The aromatic zest gives a citrusy high-note, complementing the botanicals. It's like the final flourish on a painting – not utterly essential, but it completes the masterpiece.

Emma Rose

Recipe. How to make Watermelon Negroni Drink

  1. Chill the Glass: Place your old-fashioned glass in the freezer to chill.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a mixing glass, combine 1 oz of gin, 1 oz of Campari, 1 oz of sweet vermouth, and 1 oz of fresh watermelon juice.
  3. Stir: Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir the mixture until well-chilled.
  4. Strain: Strain the cocktail into the chilled old-fashioned glass filled with ice.
  5. Garnish: Garnish with a slice of watermelon and a twist of orange peel.

Pro Tips

  • Use fresh watermelon juice for the best flavor. Avoid store-bought juice if possible.
  • For an extra touch of freshness, muddle a few pieces of watermelon in the mixing glass before adding the other ingredients.
  • Chill the glass beforehand to keep the cocktail cool and refreshing.

Perfect Pairings

Appetizers

  • Grilled Octopus: The smoky flavor complements the bitterness of Campari.
  • Charcuterie Board: The variety of meats and cheeses matches the cocktail's complexity.

Main Courses

  • Pasta with Tomato Sauce: The acidity cuts through the richness of the sauce.
  • Seared Scallops: The sweetness pairs nicely with the watermelon notes.

Desserts

  • Citrus Sorbet: Refreshing and light, matching the cocktail's fruitiness.
  • Dark Chocolate: The bitterness contrasts the sweet watermelon flavor.

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What you could change in Watermelon Negroni

  • Gin: You can use a light vodka if you're not a fan of gin's botanicals.
  • Campari: Aperol can be used for a sweeter and less bitter profile.
  • Sweet Vermouth: A dry vermouth can be used for a less sweet cocktail.

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And of course - twists🍹

Spicy Watermelon Negroni

  • Ingredients: Substitute gin with jalapeño-infused tequila.
  • Recipe: Muddle a slice of fresh jalapeño in the mixing glass before adding the other ingredients. Proceed as usual.
  • Flavor: Expect a fiery kiss with each sip, as the heat playfully jostles with the sweetness of watermelon.

Elderflower Watermelon Negroni

  • Ingredients: Add 0.5 oz St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur.
  • Recipe: Include the elderflower liqueur when mixing the drink. Stir well and serve.
  • Flavor: Floral hints will whisper through the negroni, adding an elegant complexity that’s hard to put down.

Frozen Watermelon Negroni

  • Ingredients: Same as the original but include crushed ice.
  • Recipe: Blend all ingredients with crushed ice to create a slushy texture. Serve in a chilled glass.
  • Flavor: A frozen delight, offering a slushy escape to those looking to beat the heat with a boozy treat.

In case you forgot basics how to make Watermelon Negroni

Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.

Learn everything on how to strain

Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.

Learn everything on how to stir

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Watermelon Negroni

How can I tell if my watermelon juice is fresh enough for the cocktail?

Fresh watermelon juice should be bright in color and smell sweet. If the juice has been sitting for too long, it may have a sour or fermented odor indicating that it is no longer fresh.

What type of gin works best in a Watermelon Negroni?

A London Dry Gin with its clean, crisp botanicals complements the sweetness of the watermelon and the bitterness of the Campari quite well.

Can the Watermelon Negroni be made in a large batch for parties?

Yes, simply multiply the ingredient measurements by the number of servings you need and mix everything in a large pitcher. Serve over ice with the appropriate garnishes.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Watermelon Negroni?

Yes! You can use non-alcoholic substitutes for gin, Campari, and vermouth, such as Seedlip for gin, Lyre's Italian Orange for Campari, and a non-alcoholic aperitif for vermouth.

What's the best way to extract juice from the watermelon?

For the freshest juice, use a blender or food processor to puree the watermelon flesh and then strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve.

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