Drama Meets Balance
If you’ve never had a negroni, this smoked aperol negroni may be your perfect gateway. The typically bitter cocktail recipe gets a smoky sweet makeover worthy of it’s own tv show. If you already love the negroni, welcome, this variation will have you questioning “why have I never tried aperol in this drink before?” It may also have you asking, “Do I need a cocktail smoker?” The answer, my friends, is yes. Sure it’s a little extra, but if you also love an excuse to make fun, interesting cocktails at home it’s a worthwhile investment.
Even without the smoker, this is a fun cocktail to make! It’ll be an even greater crowd pleaser than a typical negroni, as the aperol turns this a bit sweeter, but in a great way. It doesn’t take this into “sweet cocktail” territory, but instead becomes incredibly balanced and less bitter. For me, it’s perfect. I love a negroni, but only on occasion as it can sometimes be too much bitterness. The combination of flavors in this cocktail, however, hits every note I’m looking for in a pre-dinner cocktail. Plus the theatrics of having a smoked cocktail *chef’s kiss* of drama meets taste!
The Supplies
Ingredients
To make this smoked Aperol Negroni recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Smoking pellets
- Gin
- Sweet vermouth
- Aperol
- Orange peel
For the exact ingredient amounts, check out the recipe card at the bottom of this page.
Equipment
In order to make this smoked Aperol Negroni, you’ll need the following pieces of equipment:
- Cocktail jigger
- Cocktail smoker
- Mixing pitcher
- Peeler
Frequent Recipe Questions
Is this cocktail strong?
- A: It is! If you’re not a fan of Negronis or strong gin cocktails, this may not be the recipe for you.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
- A: This recipe is best served right after making it.
Is it required to smoke this cocktail?
- A: It’s not! This recipe is delicious whether you place it in a smoker or not.
Smoked Aperol Negroni Recipe Details
At its core, this Negroni recipe is incredibly simple. It’s equal parts aperol, gin, and sweet vermouth. The ingredients are first mixed in a pitcher with some ice to get it chilled. Then, if you’re using it, adding it to your smoking vessel to get a smoky flavor layered in.
If you’re using a cocktail smoker, be sure it’s prepared before you begin to assemble your cocktail. Mix the Aperol, gin, and sweet vermouth in a pitcher and then transfer it to a glass or keep it in the pitcher, base on the instructions for your smoker. Smoke the drink, based on your model’s instructions, for a couple minutes. Serve the Aperol negroni with an orange peel for garnish and enjoy!
Do you love an Aperol cocktail? Me too. Be sure to check out these other recipes:
If you make this smoked Aperol Negroni recipe, be sure to leave a comment or give this recipe a rating – I can’t wait to hear how it goes. As always, tag me on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook in your photos. It makes me feel like we’re getting to cook together!
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Smoked Aperol Negroni
Description
Smoky Aperol Negroni that's a balanced, smoky cocktail made with aperol, gin, and sweet vermouth, then finished with a cocktail smoker.
Ingredients
Instructions
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If smoking your cocktail: Prepare your cocktail smoker as instructed in its user manual.
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In a separate glass or pitcher, add 1 oz of gin, 1 oz of sweet vermouth, 1 oz of aperol, and a handful of ice. Stir until the liquids have combined and are cooled.
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Strain the aperol mixture into a serving glass or into the smoker, depending on the model you have. Leave the Negroni to smoke for a couple minutes to infuse the flavor.
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Garnish the drink with an orange slice and enjoy!
