Spirit Free Negroni Recipe

Mix the base

Measure equal parts of the nonalcoholic red vermouth-style aperitif, nonalcoholic bitter aperitif (Campari-style), and the nonalcoholic botanical gin-style spirit. Pour 1 cup of each into a clean pitcher or jar. Stir gently until fully combined, about 20–30 seconds, to create the spirit-free Negroni mix.

Taste the base and adjust: if the blend is too bitter, add up to 2 tablespoons (approximately 1 oz) of the red vermouth-style aperitif or a teaspoon of simple syrup per cup to soften. If it lacks herbaceous gin notes, add up to 1 tablespoon of the botanical gin-style spirit per cup. Stir to incorporate any adjustments.

Store: cover and refrigerate any unused mix in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks. Stir or shake gently before using, as some botanical components may settle.

Build the cocktail

Place a large ice cube or a handful of large ice cubes into an old-fashioned (rocks) glass until roughly 3/4 full.

Measure 3 oz of the prepared spirit-free Negroni mix and pour it over the ice. If you prefer a slightly lighter, more effervescent drink, add 1/2 oz of cold soda water or cold still water and stir gently once to combine.

Express the orange peel over the glass by holding the peel with the outside facing down and giving it a firm twist over the drink to release the oils. Run the peel around the rim of the glass, then drop the peel into the drink as garnish.

Serve immediately. Stir once more briefly at the table if needed to re-incorporate as the ice melts.