The story of the White Negroni

Negroni without Campari? Where can you find something like that? Negroni nostalgics are up in arms. But that’s not so bad, because there are excellent Negroni recipes that do without the bright red aperitif bitters. Here, in the rather yellowish shimmering White Negroni, Campari and red vermouth are replaced with Lillet Blanc and Suze. 

The origins of the White Negroni

London bartender Wayne Collins invented the White Negroni in 2001. Collins‘ initial idea was to replace Campari with the gentian liqueur Suze. As a second step, he decided against the obligatory red vermouth. This is replaced by the wine liqueur Lillet. As a result, this drink not only loses its red color, but also some of its bitterness.

Which gin for the White Negroni?

Wayne Collins uses Plymouth gin for his White Negroni.  This „oldie“ has been produced at the Blackfriars Distillery in Plymouth since 1793. Back then, it was primarily for the thirsty British Navy. This made Plymouth gin popular almost worldwide. In addition, the former Blackfriars monks, who were previously housed within the walls of the distillery, are said to have played a role in the recipe for the gin. Both the British Navy sailing ship, the „Mayflower“, and a Blackfriar monk adorn the design of the green bottle.
In general, and not just because of the story, the historic Plymouth Gin is worth buying.

If you don’t have the distillate from Plymouth readily available, you should use a gin with a more classic London Dry profile. This means notes of juniper, coriander and citrus such as orange or lemon. A Sipsmith London Dry Gin or French Citadelle Gin come to mind first.

Solid ingredients in the White Negroni

Lillet Blanc: I always like to emphasize that Lillet can be used in many interesting drinks. It cuts a fine figure in „Martini Twists“ or in the „20th Century Cocktail“ that I love so much. And it’s definitely a must in the White Negroni.

Let’s move on to the French exotic in our trio. The Suze gentian liqueur. The main ingredient in Suze is yellow gentian, which also gives it its distinctive yellow color. It has a very special taste, but definitely belongs in this Negroni.

More gin cocktails?!

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