Lavender Negroni Cocktail Recipe
I like this cocktail because it balances those classic Negroni flavors with a little floral twist from the lavender. For the best results, I try to use good ingredients and actually measure things out—eyeballing it can throw it off.
Equipment
- Mixing glass or cocktail shaker
- Bar spoon
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Old-fashioned or rocks glass
- Small plate (for garnish prep)
- Peeler or sharp knife
Ingredients
- 1 oz gin I prefer a London Dry gin
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz Campari
- 1/4 oz lavender syrup homemade or store-bought
- Ice cubes
- Orange peel for garnish
- Optional: Fresh lavender sprig for garnish
Instructions
- Fill the mixing glass with ice to chill.
- Add gin, sweet vermouth, Campari, and lavender syrup into the glass.
- Stir with the bar spoon for about 20-30 seconds until well chilled.
- Place fresh ice cubes in the glass you’ll use for serving.
- Strain the mixed drink into the serving glass over the fresh ice.
- Use a peeler to cut a slice of orange peel for garnish. Hold it over the glass and twist to release oils before dropping it in.
Notes
It’s easy to overdo it with the lavender syrup, so I’m careful not to add too much. If I’m feeling ambitious, I’ll make homemade lavender syrup by simmering water, sugar, and dried lavender buds, then straining it out.
Sometimes I’ll add a splash of soda water if I’m in the mood for something lighter. For gin, London Dry gives it that sharp backbone, but floral gins can work too. Fresh orange peel is a must for me—dried just doesn’t cut it.
Serving this cocktail cold is non-negotiable. I always chill the glass and mixing jug. And I drink it pretty quickly after making it, since the aromas can fade if it sits around too long.