The holidays call for something a bit more special, and if you’re a Negroni lover like me, you’ll know that winter deserves its own twist on this classic cocktail. Enter the Christmas Spiced Negroni, an enchanting blend of gin, vermouth, and Campari, elevated with warm, festive spices that feel right at home beside twinkling lights and cozy fires.
This isn’t just any holiday drink; it’s a sophisticated, spiced take on a traditional Negroni, and it’s perfect for adding a bit of “wow” to your holiday celebrations.
The Christmas Spiced Negroni has become a favorite for its simple, elegant way of capturing the holiday spirit in a glass. With so many of us seeking alternatives to heavier Christmas Punch and Sangria, this drink balances light, herbal notes with deep, comforting spices for an unmistakable festive flavor.
It’s also a recipe that invites experimentation; add a touch of star anise or freshly cracked black pepper to create a warming complexity that’s uniquely yours.
If you want to enhance the holiday vibe, consider adding a cinnamon stick or a small sprig of rosemary as an additional garnish along with the orange wedge. Cheers to sharing your version of the Winter Spiced Negroni at this season’s gatherings!
Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)
- The spices create that festive aroma, instantly making your space feel cozier.
- In just a few minutes, you have a cocktail that tastes as if it took far longer—ideal for entertaining.
- This Negroni holds its own as a delicious twist, whether you’re a fan of bitter cocktails or new to the flavor.
- I’ve tried it with extra cloves or a dash of nutmeg, and it always delivers.
- Unlike sugary drinks, this cocktail feels refreshing—perfect for keeping things light during indulgent holiday meals.
Christmas Spiced Negroni
Equipment
- Frying pan (un-oiled)
- Pestle and mortar (or rolling pin)
- Large screwcap jar
- Muslin cloth
- Glass bottle (for storage)
- Ice cubes
- Cocktail glass
- Spoon for stirring
Ingredients
Spiced Gin
- 500 ml gin
- 1 star anise
- 2 whole cloves nutmeg
- 2 cinnamon sticks each approx. 7.5 cm / 3 inches in length
- 15 whole cloves
Winter Spiced Negroni
- 30 ml 1 fl oz spiced gin
- 30 ml 1 fl oz red vermouth
- 30 ml 1 fl oz Campari
- 2 thick orange segments
- Sunflower oil or other tasteless oil for brushing oranges
Instructions
- Prepare the Spiced Gin: Roughly crush the star anise, cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon sticks, and cloves with a pestle and mortar.
- Heat spices gently in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes to release aromas.
- Transfer spices to a jar, add gin, and seal. Let infuse for 5 days, shaking the jar daily.
- After 5 days, strain the gin through muslin and store in a glass bottle.
- Prepare the Charred Orange: Brush orange segments with oil and char in a hot pan for 1-2 minutes per side. Set aside to cool.
- Assemble the Negroni: Place ice cubes and one charred orange wedge in a glass.
- Pour in spiced gin, vermouth, and Campari. Stir gently.
- Garnish with the second orange wedge and enjoy immediately.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Fibre | 0 g |
Helpful Tips for Making the Perfect Christmas Spiced Negroni!
- Infuse the Spiced Gin Longer for Deeper Flavor: While the recipe suggests infusing the gin for 5 days, you can let it sit for up to 7 days for a more intense spice flavor. Just be sure to shake the jar daily to help the spices infuse evenly.
- Crush Spices Lightly: When crushing the spices for the gin, don’t overdo it. You want them to be roughly broken up to release their oils but not completely powdered. This ensures the gin absorbs the right amount of flavor.
- Char the Oranges Just Right: For the charred orange, make sure the pan is hot before adding the segments, and keep an eye on them so they don’t burn. You’re aiming for a light caramelization, not a blackened surface.
- Serving Tip: Use large, slow-melting ice cubes to ensure your Negroni stays chilled without diluting too quickly. The larger cubes will also help maintain the drink’s bold flavors.