The Negroni Sbagliato—meaning “mistaken Negroni” in Italian—is a refreshing variation on the classic Negroni, made with sparkling prosecco in place of gin. This delightful twist creates a lighter, slightly effervescent version of the original, perfect for those who want a less spirit-forward cocktail with all the classic Negroni flavors. With its blend of Campari, sweet vermouth, and bubbly prosecco, the Negroni Sbagliato is ideal for aperitivo hour or any occasion that calls for a celebratory drink. Let’s explore the story, unique qualities, and recipe for crafting the perfect Negroni Sbagliato at home.
The Origins of the Negroni Sbagliato
The Negroni Sbagliato was invented in Milan at Bar Basso in the 1970s. Legend has it that a bartender accidentally reached for prosecco instead of gin while making a Negroni, thus creating a “mistaken Negroni”—or Sbagliato. This happy accident led to the creation of a lighter, more refreshing version of the classic cocktail, and it quickly became a staple in Italy’s aperitivo culture.
Today, the Negroni Sbagliato is celebrated for its balance of bittersweet and sparkling flavors. It’s an ideal option for those who enjoy the herbal notes of Campari but prefer a lower-alcohol cocktail. The Sbagliato has become an icon in its own right, and it’s particularly popular for brunch, afternoon gatherings, or any time you’re in the mood for a lighter cocktail with a hint of sophistication.
What Makes the Negroni Sbagliato So Unique
The Negroni Sbagliato stands out for a few reasons:
- Effervescent Twist: With prosecco in place of gin, the Sbagliato has a light, bubbly texture that makes it refreshing and less intense than the original Negroni.
- Lower Alcohol Content: Since prosecco has a lower ABV than gin, the Negroni Sbagliato is a great choice for those who want a lighter cocktail that’s easy to sip.
- Perfect for Aperitivo Hour: Like the original Negroni, the Sbagliato is an ideal aperitivo, stimulating the appetite and providing a flavorful pre-dinner drink.
How to Make the Perfect Negroni Sbagliato
The Negroni Sbagliato is easy to make and requires just a few ingredients. Here’s the classic recipe for this bubbly twist on the Negroni.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz (3 cl) Campari
- 1 oz (3 cl) sweet vermouth
- 1 oz (3 cl) prosecco
- Ice
- Orange slice or twist for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine Campari and Vermouth: In a rocks glass or an Old-Fashioned glass, add the Campari and sweet vermouth.
- Add Ice and Top with Prosecco: Fill the glass with ice, then gently pour the prosecco over the top. Give it a light stir to combine.
- Garnish: Garnish with an orange slice or twist for added aroma and a pop of color.
Tip: For a smoother, more elegant presentation, consider using a large ice cube to keep the drink cold without diluting it too quickly.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
- Campari: Campari is essential to the Negroni Sbagliato, providing the signature bitter backbone and bright red color. Its complex herbal notes are balanced by the sweetness of the vermouth and the effervescence of prosecco.
- Sweet Vermouth: A good quality sweet vermouth, such as Carpano Antica Formula or Cocchi Vermouth di Torino, enhances the Sbagliato’s depth and complements the bitterness of the Campari with a smooth sweetness.
- Prosecco: Choose a dry or brut prosecco for the Negroni Sbagliato. A crisp prosecco balances the cocktail’s flavors and adds a refreshing sparkle without too much additional sweetness.
- Garnish: An orange slice or twist is a classic garnish for the Sbagliato, adding a citrusy aroma that complements the Campari’s bittersweet notes.
Tips for Perfecting Your Negroni Sbagliato
- Use Fresh Prosecco: To get the best effervescence, open a fresh bottle of prosecco for your Sbagliato. The bubbles create the drink’s signature texture and help to balance its bitterness.
- Stir Lightly: When mixing, stir gently to avoid losing the prosecco’s bubbles. A light stir will integrate the flavors without making the drink flat.
- Experiment with Ice: Try serving the Sbagliato over one large ice cube to slow the dilution, or use crushed ice for a lighter, more refreshing experience.
- Adjust Prosecco to Taste: For a lighter drink, add a bit more prosecco. If you prefer a slightly stronger flavor, stick to equal parts Campari, vermouth, and prosecco.
Negroni Sbagliato Variations to Try
While the classic Negroni Sbagliato is delightful as is, here are a few variations to explore:
- Rosé Sbagliato: Substitute the prosecco with sparkling rosé for a hint of berry flavor and a softer pink hue, adding a unique twist to the drink.
- Negroni Sbagliato Spritz: Add a splash of soda water along with the prosecco for an extra-refreshing version with even more bubbles.
- Grapefruit Sbagliato: Add a dash of fresh grapefruit juice for a citrus-forward version that enhances the Campari’s bittersweet notes.
- Herbal Sbagliato: Muddle a few fresh basil or thyme leaves in the glass before adding the Campari and vermouth for a subtle herbal aroma.
- Negroni Sbagliato with Spumante: Use an Italian spumante or another sparkling wine instead of prosecco for a slightly different take on the cocktail, adjusting the sweetness level as desired.
When to Serve the Negroni Sbagliato
The Negroni Sbagliato’s light, refreshing profile and Italian roots make it ideal for various occasions:
- Aperitivo Hour: Like the original Negroni, the Sbagliato is perfect for aperitivo hour, helping to stimulate the appetite before dinner.
- Brunch and Lunch Gatherings: With its lower alcohol content and sparkling finish, the Sbagliato is a great choice for daytime events like brunch or lunch.
- Casual Celebrations: The Negroni Sbagliato’s bubbles make it festive, so it’s ideal for celebrations, holidays, or anytime you want a lighter alternative to champagne.
- Warm-Weather Occasions: The Sbagliato’s refreshing profile makes it a perfect option for summer gatherings, outdoor parties, or sipping on a sunny patio.
Why You Should Try the Negroni Sbagliato
The Negroni Sbagliato is more than just a cocktail—it’s a vibrant, bubbly twist on a classic Italian drink that brings a touch of elegance and refreshment to any occasion. With its combination of Campari, sweet vermouth, and prosecco, the Negroni Sbagliato offers a perfect balance of bitterness, sweetness, and effervescence. Its light, approachable profile makes it an ideal choice for both Negroni lovers and those new to bitter cocktails.
For fans of classic Italian aperitifs or anyone looking to try a sparkling cocktail with depth and character, the Negroni Sbagliato is a must-try. Its easy preparation, balanced flavors, and festive presentation make it a fantastic addition to any cocktail repertoire.
So next time you’re in the mood for a drink that’s sophisticated yet refreshing, mix up a Negroni Sbagliato, raise your glass, and toast to Italian aperitivo culture with a twist. Salute!