Isabella's Pantry
Sbagliato Negroni (sparkling negroni) Tips & Tricks
What is a Sbagliato Negroni (sparkling negroni)?
A Sparkling Negroni, also known as a Negroni Sbagliato, is a delightful twist on the classic Negroni cocktail. ‘Sbagliato’ means ‘mistaken’ in Italian, and legend has it that this drink was created when a busy bartender accidentally used sparkling wine instead of gin in a Negroni. The result is a lighter, more effervescent version of the beloved Italian aperitivo.
This negroni with sparkling wine combines the bitterness of Campari, the sweetness of vermouth, and the bubbles of Prosecco or champagne. It’s a perfect balance of flavours that’s both refreshing and sophisticated, making it an ideal choice for those who find the traditional Negroni too strong.
Sbagliato Negroni Ingredients
To create the perfect Sparkling Negroni or Negroni Sbagliato, you’ll need the following key ingredients:
- 30ml Campari
- 30ml Sweet Vermouth
- 30ml Prosecco or other sparkling wine
- Ice cubes
- Orange slice or peel for garnish
The quality of these ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavour. Choose a well-balanced sweet vermouth, the iconic Campari bitter liqueur, and a dry, crisp Prosecco or sparkling wine. The orange garnish adds a burst of citrus aroma that complements the cocktail’s complex flavours. Remember, the beauty of the Sparkling Negroni lies in its simplicity and the harmony of its three main components.
Sbagliato Negroni Tips & Tricks
To learn exactly how to make a Negroni Sbagliato, consider these expert tips:
- Chill your glasses and ingredients beforehand to keep the drink cool and bubbly.
- Pour the Campari and vermouth over ice first, then top with chilled sparkling wine to maintain effervescence.
- Gently stir the cocktail to combine ingredients without losing carbonation.
- Experiment with different vermouths and sparkling wines to find your preferred flavour profile.
- For a festive touch, try using a flavoured sparkling wine like rosé Prosecco.
- Garnish with a wide strip of orange peel, expressing the oils over the drink for added aroma.
Remember, the key to a great Sparkling Negroni is balance and freshness. Don’t be afraid to adjust the ratios slightly to suit your taste preferences.
Sbagliato Negroni with Italian Street Kitchen
At Italian Street Kitchen, we take pride in crafting the perfect Sparkling Negroni. Our bartenders use premium Italian ingredients and follow traditional techniques to ensure an authentic experience. We start with high-quality Campari and our carefully selected sweet vermouth, combined over ice in a large wine glass. We then top it off with a generous pour of chilled Prosecco, sourced from the finest Italian vineyards. Each Sparkling Negroni is gently stirred and garnished with a twist of orange peel, expertly expressed over the drink to release its essential oils.
Whether you’re enjoying it as an aperitivo or paired with our Italian cuisine, our Sparkling Negroni offers a true taste of Italian sophistication.
Isabella’s Other Favourite Italian Cocktails
While the Sparkling Negroni is a delightful twist on a classic, there are other Italian cocktails worth exploring. The Aperol Spritz, a refreshing blend of Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water, is perfect for summer afternoons. The Bellini, a mixture of Prosecco and peach purée, offers a fruity and elegant option. For those who enjoy a coffee kick, the Espresso Martini Italian-style, made with vodka, espresso, and coffee liqueur, is a must-try. The classic Negroni, with its gin base, remains a timeless favourite, while there are also the Hazelnut and Naked varieties of Negroni to try*. Lastly, the Americano, which inspired the Negroni, combines Campari, sweet vermouth, and soda water for a lighter, yet equally sophisticated choice.