The Negroni is all about simplicity and balance. Three ingredients, stirred down and poured over ice, creates a drink that delivers far more than it has any right to. But the real magic is in how it wins people over because falling for a Negroni is rarely just one moment. It’s a whole journey.

Stage One – Falling in Love
Usually you're introduced to a Negroni through a friend or an acquaintance. One memorable night, one well-made drink, and suddenly this bright red liquid in a glass has a permanent place in your heart. You may not know the ratios yet, or why it tastes so good—you just know you want another.

Stage Two – Die Hard
Now it’s classic Negroni or nothing. London Dry gin, Campari, Cocchi Rosso. That’s it. If someone serves you one without Campari, you wince. You make anyone you meet try one. You roll your eyes at cocktail lists that dare suggest an “alternative.” It’s the OG way or no way. Negroni purism has you in its grip, and frankly, you don’t mind.

Stage Three – Enlightenment
Somewhere deep in the night, a realisation dawns: the Negroni isn’t just three specific bottles. It’s a concept, a perfect balance of bitterness, sweetness, and strength. And with that thought, the world suddenly expands. You start swapping bottles, trying new vermouths, reaching for different gins. The idea of a “Negroni” gets bigger.

Stage Four – The Wild Years
Everything’s in play now. You swap out Campari for every amaro within reach. You meet the bright, bitter charms of Suze and declare white Negronis are your new thing. Gin becomes mezcal, bourbon, rum because why not? Aperitivo hour is no longer predictable; the Negroni is a playground, and you’re sprinting across it.

Stage Five – Respect
Eventually, the dust settles. You learn that Negronis come in many guises. A Kingston Negroni, White Negroni, Boulevardier and each one has its place. You don’t force them on your friends every time you go out, but you know that behind every variation lies the same simple truth: a perfect balance of bitter and sweet.