Christmas Spiced Negroni
A warm, aromatic twist on the classic Negroni, this winter cocktail features spiced gin with flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, paired with a charred orange for a cozy holiday sip.
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.
