The Negroni Sbagliato Spritz is a captivating cocktail that originated in Italy in the late 1960s. It's made by mixing Campari, sweet vermouth, and Prosecco instead of gin, creating a delightful balance of bitter, sweet, and bubbly flavors. The "sbagliato" in the name means "mistaken" in Italian, emphasizing its accidental creation. This modern classic is a refreshing alternative to the classic Negroni, perfect for casual gatherings or formal events. To make it, you'll need high-quality ingredients and a thoughtful approach – keep reading to discover the full recipe and preparation steps.
Key Takeaways
- The Negroni Sbagliato Spritz is a modern classic cocktail that originated from an accidental combination in Italy in the late 1960s.
- It is a refreshing alternative to the classic Negroni, made with Campari, sweet vermouth, and Prosecco instead of gin.
- The drink combines bitter, sweet, and bubbly flavors, creating a balanced and visually appealing cocktail.
- The Negroni Sbagliato Spritz is widely popular in bars and restaurants globally and is often featured in cocktail competitions.
- It represents the Italian aperitivo culture, symbolizing relaxation and enjoyment, and reflects the growing trend of low-alcohol cocktails.
History
The origins of the Negroni Sbagliato Spritz can be traced back to the late 1960s, when an Italian bartender, by chance, combined Prosecco with Campari and sweet vermouth instead of gin, creating an unintentional twist on the classic Negroni cocktail.
This accidental discovery became an instant hit, as the bubbles from the Prosecco added a refreshing lightness to the typically heavy Negroni. The name "Sbagliato" means "mistaken" in Italian, referencing the bartender's happy accident.
Over time, the Negroni Sbagliato Spritz has gained widespread popularity, becoming a staple in bars and restaurants across Italy and beyond.
Its unique blend of bitter, sweet, and effervescent flavors has made it a beloved aperitif, perfect for sipping before a meal or enjoying on a warm summer day.
The simplicity of the recipe, combined with its unexpected origin story, has contributed to the cocktail's enduring appeal and status as a modern classic.
Recipe
A Negroni Sbagliato Spritz is a delightful and refreshing cocktail that puts a unique twist on the classic Negroni. The Sbagliato, which means "mistaken" in Italian, refers to the use of sparkling wine instead of gin, creating a lighter and more effervescent variation.
This cocktail is the perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and bubbly, making it an ideal choice for any occasion, from a cozy night in to a lively social gathering.
- 1 part Campari
- 1 part sweet vermouth (such as Cinzano or Punt e Mes)
- 1 part sparkling wine (such as Prosecco or Cava)
- Orange slice for garnish
In a highball or wine glass filled with ice, combine the Campari and sweet vermouth. Top with sparkling wine and gently stir to combine. Garnish with an orange slice.
When preparing a Negroni Sbagliato Spritz, be sure to use a high-quality sparkling wine to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
Additionally, consider experimenting with different types of sweet vermouth to find your preferred taste profile. Enjoy this refreshing cocktail and savor the delightful combination of bittersweet and bubbly notes.
Cooking Steps
Fill a wine glass with ice, then add Campari.
Top it off with sparkling wine and an orange slice.
Step 1. Fill a Wine Glass With Ice
Typically, you'll want to fill a wine glass about three-quarters full with ice. This step helps dilute and chill the cocktail ingredients, ensuring a refreshing and balanced drink.
Be sure to use fresh, high-quality ice cubes to avoid watering down the flavor. Gently drop the ice into the glass, taking care not to crack or chip the glass. Fill the glass until the ice reaches just below the rim, leaving enough room to add the other ingredients.
Once the ice is in place, you're ready to move on to the next step: adding the Campari and sweet vermouth. The right balance of these two key ingredients is crucial for achieving the signature Negroni Sbagliato Spritz taste.
With the ice and glass prepared, you can now confidently build the cocktail, confident that each sip will be perfectly chilled and diluted to perfection.
Step 2. Add Campari
Next, add a generous 1.5 ounces of Campari to the ice-filled wine glass.
This bold, bittersweet Italian aperitif will lend a distinctive ruby-red hue and an intriguing herbal, citrusy flavor to your Negroni Sbagliato Spritz.
Campari's signature blend of botanicals, including chinotto (a type of citrus fruit), creates a complex, slightly bitter taste that's absolutely essential for this cocktail.
Be sure to pour the Campari slowly, allowing it to gently mix with the ice.
The bright red color will provide a visually striking contrast to the chilled white wine you'll be adding next.
Take a moment to admire the beautiful layered effect as the Campari settles at the bottom of the glass.
This is the heart of the Negroni Sbagliato Spritz, so take care to get the measurements and pouring technique just right.
With the Campari in place, you're one step closer to enjoying this refreshingly sophisticated cocktail.
Step 3. Add Sparkling Wine
With the bold Campari now in place, add a splash of chilled sparkling wine. This simple addition transforms the Negroni Sbagliato into an elegant and refreshing spritz. The bubbly wine lifts the drink, creating a lovely effervescence that complements the bitter notes of the Campari.
Be sure to use a good-quality sparkling wine, as it will provide the perfect balance and carbonation. A dry, crisp Prosecco works wonderfully, but you can also experiment with other sparkling wines to find your personal preference.
Gently pour the sparkling wine over the ice, taking care not to overflow the glass.
The Negroni Sbagliato Spritz is now complete. The combination of the Campari, sweet vermouth, and sparkling wine results in a beautifully balanced and complex cocktail. The bitterness of the Campari is mellowed by the sweetness of the vermouth and the effervescence of the sparkling wine. The Negroni Sbagliato Spritz is perfect for those who enjoy a bittersweet libation with a little fizz. This cocktail is just one example of the many refreshing prosecco cocktails that can be enjoyed on a warm summer day.
Sip and enjoy the perfect blend of bitter, sweet, and fizzy flavors. This spritz is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
Step 4. Add Orange Slice
To complete the Negroni Sbagliato Spritz, you'll want to add a fresh orange slice as a garnish. This vibrant addition not only enhances the visual appeal of the cocktail but also contributes a burst of citrus aroma and flavor. Simply take a thin slice of orange, about a quarter-inch thick, and place it gently atop the drink. The orange slice will float gracefully on the surface, drawing the eye and inviting you to take a refreshing sip.
The orange slice serves multiple purposes. It adds a touch of sweetness that balances the bitterness of the Campari and the dryness of the sparkling wine.
Plus, the vibrant color creates an eye-catching contrast against the deep reddish-brown hue of the Negroni Sbagliato. As you lift the glass to your lips, the orange slice will release its essential oils, infusing the cocktail with a zesty, aromatic note that heightens the overall drinking experience.
This final touch transforms the Negroni Sbagliato Spritz into a visually stunning and delightfully refreshing libation.
Step 5. Stir Gently With Barspoon
After adding the orange slice, gently stir the Negroni Sbagliato Spritz with a barspoon. This step is crucial to fully incorporate all the ingredients and ensure a harmonious blend of flavors.
Use a slow, circular motion, moving the barspoon from the bottom of the glass to the top, then back down again. Don't be too vigorous – you want to avoid excessive aeration, which can dull the drink's effervescence. Stir just until the mixture is well-combined, about 10-15 seconds.
This gentle stirring helps to marry the Campari, vermouth, and sparkling wine, creating a smooth, well-balanced cocktail. Resist the temptation to over-stir, as that can compromise the drink's texture and dilute the flavors.
Once you've given it a gentle stir, your Negroni Sbagliato Spritz is ready to be enjoyed. The orange slice adds a lovely aromatic touch, while the barspoon stirring ensures a cohesive, harmonious sip.
Final Thoughts
The true delight of the Negroni Sbagliato Spritz lies in its harmonious balance, a captivating interplay of flavors that elevates the senses.
While the origins of this cocktail may have been a happy accident, its enduring appeal is no mistake. The Negroni Sbagliato Spritz is a testament to the art of mixology, where simplicity and sophistication converge to create a truly remarkable drinking experience.
As you sip this refreshing elixir, let the notes of bittersweet Campari, the gentle effervescence of sparkling wine, and the subtle citrus of orange come together in a symphony of taste.
Each sip is a journey, inviting you to savor the complexity and nuance that this cocktail has to offer.
Whether you're enjoying it on a warm evening or as a sophisticated aperitif, the Negroni Sbagliato Spritz is sure to leave a lasting impression, reminding you of the joy that can be found in the perfect balance of flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the Difference Between a Negroni and a Negroni Sbagliato?
The main difference between a Negroni and a Negroni Sbagliato is that the Sbagliato uses sparkling wine instead of gin.
A traditional Negroni is made with equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, while a Negroni Sbagliato swaps the gin for a splash of prosecco or other sparkling wine.
This gives the Sbagliato a lighter, more effervescent taste compared to the bolder, more spirit-forward Negroni.
The Sbagliato is a fun, bubbly twist on the classic cocktail.
Can I Use Any Type of Sparkling Wine?
You can absolutely use any type of sparkling wine in a Negroni Sbagliato!
The key is to choose a dry, crisp sparkling wine that will complement the flavors of the Campari and sweet vermouth. Prosecco is a classic choice, but you could also try a Spanish cava or an Italian Franciacorta.
Just avoid anything too sweet or fruity, as you want the sparkling wine to balance out the bitterness of the Campari.
Have fun experimenting with different bubbly options!
How Long Should the Drink Be Stirred or Mixed?
When mixing a drink, you'll want to stir or shake it just long enough to fully incorporate all the ingredients.
For a typical cocktail, that's usually around 10-15 seconds of light stirring or 10-12 seconds of vigorous shaking.
You don't need to overdo it – a gentle stir or shake is enough to blend everything together nicely.
The key is to find the right balance between thoroughly mixed and not over-diluting the drink.
Can I Make the Negroni Sbagliato in Advance?
You can definitely make the Negroni Sbagliato in advance!
The great thing about this cocktail is that it holds up really well. You can mix up a batch and store it in the fridge for a few days.
When you're ready to serve, just pour it over ice and top it off with a splash of sparkling wine. Easy peasy!
The flavors will still be spot on, so you can enjoy this tasty drink anytime.
Is There a Specific Garnish Recommended for the Negroni Sbagliato?
When serving a Negroni Sbagliato, you'll want to garnish it with a lemon twist.
The bright citrus aroma and flavor complement the sweet vermouth and Campari in the drink.
You can also try a slice of orange, which adds a nice visual element.
Whichever garnish you choose, make sure it's fresh and vibrant to enhance the overall experience of this classic cocktail.
Oliver is a beverage connoisseur with expertise in everything from craft cocktails to artisanal coffee and tea. His focus is on exploring the history, flavors, and techniques behind both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
