The Negroni has earned its place as a sophisticated favorite on bar menus worldwide. According to legend, the ruby-red cocktail originated in 1919 at Caffè Casoni in Florence, Italy, when Count Camillo Negroni asked for an Americano with gin instead of soda water. This simple adjustment gave rise to the classic Negroni we know today, composed of equal parts sweet vermouth, Campari, and gin.
Though its bittersweet flavor profile can be an acquired taste, the versatility of the Negroni has inspired countless variations, ensuring there's a version for almost everyone.
One such popular twist is the Negroni Sbagliato. While it gained a surge of fame after "House of the Dragon" star Emma D’Arcy mentioned it in a 2022 interview, the Sbagliato had long been cherished by cocktail enthusiasts.
Like the original, the Negroni Sbagliato was born from a simple ingredient swap. In this case, Prosecco replaces gin, a change reportedly made by accident when a bartender mistakenly grabbed sparkling wine instead of the juniper spirit. The drink's name, "sbagliato," meaning "mistaken" in Italian, nods to its serendipitous creation.
This substitution significantly alters the drink's characteristics. The traditional Negroni boasts a bold, herbaceous bitterness from the combination of Campari and gin, complemented by the rich, fortified sweetness of vermouth. Its intense, complex flavor makes it a powerful cocktail.
In contrast, the Negroni Sbagliato is lighter and sweeter, with the Prosecco contributing a bright, effervescent quality. The sparkling wine's fruity and floral notes balance the citrusy bitterness of Campari and the dark sweetness of vermouth, resulting in a more approachable flavor. The fizz of the Prosecco adds a lively mouthfeel, softening the bitter edge of the original recipe.
This swap also lowers the drink's alcohol content. While gin typically has an ABV of 36%-50%, Prosecco’s ABV is closer to 10%-12%. Consequently, the Negroni Sbagliato is a less boozy alternative to the traditional version, making it a delightful option for those seeking a balanced yet spirited sip. An accidental innovation, the Negroni Sbagliato is a refreshing, vibrant twist on the timeless classic.
When enjoying either remember the Negroni uses a single large ice cube, the sbagliato calls for smaller ice cubes.
