Negroni Week 2019

It’s that time of year again, folks!

Imbibe-nerds across the globe look forward to this week simply because of the joy of celebrating one of the best classic cocktails to exist. But rejoicing in this bitterly elegant libation isn’t the only point of Negroni Week...

Giving Back

Negroni Week began in 2013 by Imbibe Magazine and Campari. It was launched with the goal of raising money for charities around the world. Since its start, Negroni Week has grown from 120 participating venues to almost 10,000 venues from all around! To date, Negroni Week has raised roughly $2 million for charitable causes. That’s pretty fucking dope if you ask me.

I personally love how many restaurants and bars are focusing on helping larger causes. It’s a beautiful thing to be able to utilize such a unique craft; in an effort to make the world a better place. For those of you in the industry that wait tables, mix drinks, or flip burgers; those of you who think your job is pointless. Remember, that it is not. In this industry we are completely capable of positively changing the way people think. It is simply a matter of whether or not your willing to put the time and effort into such a cause. Ask your owner to start doing monthly non-profit events. Volunteer your time and your craft to those who can’t afford to go through a company. Participate in global events like Negroni Week! We all can do our part.

But Seriously...

Negroni Week is awesome! It takes place one week, every June. This year it will be taking place from June 24th to June 30th. A Negroni is simply a delicious aperitif comprised of three ingredients. Gin, Sweet Vermouth, and of course – Campari. Garnished with a nice orange peel. (Of course, Negroni Week has its specificities and rules for how it all works – but I won’t exhaust you on all that here.)

Bartenders and craft cocktail lovers of all sorts will make up there own spin on Negroni’s all through out Negroni Week. Whether it be a special at the bar, or simply made for themselves at home. I plan to make a different spin off of a Negroni every day of Negroni Week this year. Why not? It’s fun and it gets your creative juices flowing.

Here’s a little Negroni Spin Off recipe from Pasadena, CA based bartender, Jason F. Yu:

Negronivardier/Boulevardegroni

¾ oz Old Tom Gin

¾ oz Rye Whiskey

¾ oz Campari

¾ oz Formula Antica

Instructions: Pour all ingredients in a glass beaker. Add ice. Stir until chilled. Strain into rocks glass with large ice cube. Garnish with a spritzed orange peel on top.

Cocktail + Photo Credit: Instagram @jasonfyu