With National Negroni Week (24th – 30th June) fast approaching, many of Edinburgh’s best bars are getting in on the act. The classic Negroni was created in 1919 in Florence, Italy and celebrates its 100th year. Legend tells that Count Camillo Negroni asked his friend, bartender Forsco Scarselli, to strengthen his favourite cocktail – the Americano – by replacing the soda water with gin. The Negroni has quickly become one of the most popular cocktails in the world. Here are five of the best places to enjoy a Negroni or two in Edinburgh this summer.
Read our guide to the best cocktail bars in Edinburgh
Hoot The Redeemer
On Sunday June 23rd, Hoot the Redeemer: The Rulebreakers on Hanover Street will be the place to be. This vibrant bar will be serving their special twist on this classic cocktail. People who have a sweet tooth are sure to enjoy the Negroni Ice Cream, which includes a mixture of Campari, sweet vermouth and gin. Teuchter’s Burd Slushy is a mix of Campari, Islay whisky, lime and pineapple, while Plaza Garibaldi’s features perfectly blended Campari, tequila and orange juice. The Skagliato blends Campari, Buckfast and Irn-Bru, while the Munro Bagger is a cheeky blend of Campari, single malt whisky and sweet vermouth. Those who are feeling truly daring can try all five of these unique creations or play it safe by sticking to their favourite classic.
Contini George Street
This family run Italian establishment can be found on George Street. To help make the celebrations truly memorable the owners of Contini have created their very own Negroni cocktail, the Contini Summer Negroni has been created for this special anniversary. This special cocktail boasts a heady mix of Edinburgh Gin, Martini Riserva Rubino and Campari. People who take the time to enjoy a drink or two at Contini can also sample the Negroni Sbagliato, which is made with Campari and Martini Rosso and topped with the signature Victor & Carina Contini Prosecco before being finished with a twist of orange.
www.contini.com/contini-george-street
Panda and Sons
This quirky Queen Street establishment has long been famous for its Negronis and this is a cool place to hang out and sip a glass or two. No matter what time of day or day of the week it happens to be, visitors to Panda and Son will want to try one of the unique spins on the classic Negroni that has helped to put this establishment firmly on the Edinburgh drink scene map. Not to be missed is the Boulevardier, which boasts a mix of Campari, rye and quinquina. This full bodied brew is rich, deep and rather bitter. Just like the classic Negroni, this is a drink to linger over while sharing tall tales with friends.
Rabble Taphouse & Grill
Set in the very heart of Edinburgh, this hip establishment is the perfect place to be seen sipping a Negroni or two. During National Negroni Week the talented mixologists at Rabble will be offering special Negroni master classes. In addition to sampling this classic cocktail, visitors will have the chance to learn how to create it so that they can impress their friends at their next party.
Copper Blossom
Don’t miss the chance to sample a Negroni or two in one of Edinburgh’s classiest establishments. Located at 107 George Street, this is the perfect place to start the evening before picking up the pace later. This establishment offers classic cocktails that are infused with fresh flavours and new techniques and their version of the Negroni is no exception. People who order this delicious drink can expect to find fresh fruit and a number of specially selected ingredients thrown into the mix. While the owners are reluctant to give away their secrets, visitors can be sure that they will be treated to something truly special.
