Cynar Negroni

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PREP TIME 5 min

Cocktail Type

Liqueur

Great for

Dinner Party

Difficulty

Easy

Two Cynar Negroni cocktails with lemon wheel garnish served with bruschetta and tomato

Italian amaros, or bitters, hold a special place in the world of cocktails. They add class and complexity and come with a sense of mystery and intrigue. Their exact formulas are held under lock and key and passed down like family heirlooms. The Cynar Negroni is a testament to this legacy, and it might just be the most intriguing amaro of them all.  

First made in 1952, the rich brown elixir is a blend of 13 herbs and spices, which include artichoke leaves. It’s bittersweet and rich in earthy character, with notes of caramel and toffee and a strong herbal finish. When paired with the zest of gin and the sweet, spicy character of sweet vermouth, a special Negroni is born. It’s smooth and inviting, leaving you with a lingering aftertaste that is mysteriously pleasant and utterly unique.  

QUICK TIPS

01

Chill your glasses for at least 30 minutes before serving.

02

Twist the lemon peel over the glass to release the oils into the cocktail before garnishing.

03

For a sweeter cocktail, garnish with an orange twist.

INGREDIENTS

MAKE FOR

1 Person

1 Oz

30 Ml

1 Parts

Cynar 
1 Oz

30 Ml

1 Parts

Lemon twist to garnish 
Ice

INSTRUCTIONS

01

Add all the ingredients to a mixing glass with ice, and stir well for at least 30 seconds

02

Strain into a chilled rocks glass with ice

03

Garnish with a lemon twist and serve

What is a Cynar Negroni?

A Cynar Negroni is a delightful twist on the classic Negroni cocktail. Instead of the traditional Campari, Cynar—a distinctive Italian amaro made from 13 herbs and plants, including artichoke—is used.

This substitution brings a deeper, earthier dimension to the drink, setting the scene for a bittersweet symphony that pairs beautifully with the botanicals of gin and the rich, aromatic sweetness of sweet vermouth. It’s a cocktail that’s familiar yet adventurous, perfect for those who appreciate complex, herbaceous flavors.

Also see: A Beginner’s Guide to Cynar & the Best Cynar Cocktails

Exploring the unique flavor profile of a Cynar Negroni

What sets the Cynar Negroni apart is its layered flavor profile. Cynar’s combination of bitter and sweet notes, with undertones of caramel and subtle hints of different herbs, paves the way for a classy clinker that is both complex and approachable.

The juniper-forward punch of gin and the rich, fruity depth of sweet vermouth beautifully balance the bittersweet quality of Cynar, enhancing the drink’s complexity. The result is a cocktail that is smooth and well-rounded, with a slightly dry finish that’s completely sippable.

Learn more: Best Vermouths for Negroni (Expert Recommendations & Tasting Notes)

Why choose Cynar for your Negroni?

Cynar is an amaro that brings a unique twist to the traditional Negroni. It adds robust depth and earthy character that’s hard to match. For cocktail enthusiasts who enjoy the bitterness of Campari but want to explore something more herbal and subtly sweet, Cynar is an excellent choice. It gives the Negroni a nuanced, sophisticated edge that appeals to both seasoned cocktail lovers and those just beginning to explore the world of amaros.

Cynar Negroni vs. Classic Negroni

While both the Cynar Negroni and the classic Negroni share the same foundational structure—gin, a bittersweet liqueur, and sweet vermouth—the Cynar Negroni offers a different experience. The classic Negroni is brighter and more assertively bitter, with a vibrant red hue that makes it instantly recognizable.

In contrast, the Cynar Negroni has a richer, darker tone and a more subdued bitterness, with a slightly sweeter, more herbal finish. This variation is perfect for those looking to enjoy a Negroni with a bit more depth and complexity.

More inspiration: Negroni Variations (Unique Recipes to Try at Home)

Tips for perfecting your Cynar Negroni

  • Choose your gin wisely: A London dry gin works well to complement Cynar’s herbal notes, but don’t be afraid to experiment. A gin with citrus or floral notes can add an extra layer of complexity.
  • Balance your vermouth: Using a high-quality sweet vermouth, like 1757 Vermouth di Torino Rosso, enhances the drink’s rich and aromatic profile. It brings out the warm spice notes, making the cocktail well-balanced and flavorful.
  • Stir, don’t shake: Like the classic Negroni, the Cynar Negroni should be stirred to maintain its clarity and smooth texture. Stirring also allows the flavors to blend perfectly without over-diluting the drink.
  • Garnish smartly: A slice of orange or a twist of lemon peel not only adds a citrus aroma but also complements Cynar’s herbal character, making each sip more refreshing.

Serving suggestions for a Cynar Negroni

For the perfect Cynar Negroni experience, serve it over a large ice cube in a classic rocks glass. This method keeps the drink chilled while allowing it to dilute slowly, so you can savor each complex flavor. Garnish with an orange twist or a fresh rosemary sprig for an added aromatic touch.

The Cynar Negroni is ideal as a pre-dinner aperitif or a sophisticated cocktail to enjoy during a relaxed evening with friends. Pair it with salty snacks like olives, nuts, or a charcuterie board to enhance its bitter and herbal flavors.

Drinks to try if you love a Cynar Negroni

Cynar Spritz
Boulevardier
Paper Plane
Americano
Old Pal

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

For a Cynar Negroni, a classic London dry gin is a solid choice as its juniper-forward profile complements the herbal notes of Cynar. However, gins with citrus or floral undertones can also add an interesting twist to the drink, enhancing the cocktail’s complexity. Experiment with different gins to find the one that best suits your taste preferences.

While Cynar provides a unique bittersweet and earthy flavor due to its blend of herbs and artichoke, other amaros can be used for different flavor profiles. For a more robust bitterness, try using Campari. If you prefer a slightly sweeter and less intense flavor, consider Aperol. Keep in mind that each substitution will create a distinct version of the Negroni with its own character.

A Cynar Negroni is traditionally served over a large ice cube in a rocks glass. The ice helps to chill the cocktail while allowing it to slowly dilute, mellowing the flavors over time and offering a balanced sipping experience. However, if you prefer a more intense flavor, you can serve it straight up in a chilled glass without ice.

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