You can put a Negroni in the freezer! Freezing a Negroni is a fantastic way to have a chilled and ready-to-serve cocktail on hand whenever you want it. The Negroni is a classic cocktail that consists of equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. It's a bold and bitter drink that is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening or as an aperitif before a meal.
The beauty of freezing a Negroni is that it allows the flavors to meld together and become even more harmonious. The botanical nature of gin, in particular, shines through when it's chilled, creating a refreshing and crisp cocktail. By pre-batching and freezing Negronis, you can also save time and effort when entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to a well-deserved drink.
To freeze a Negroni, simply combine equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth in a container or bottle that is freezer-friendly. Give it a good stir to ensure that all the ingredients are well mixed. I like to use a large mason jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure to leave some headspace in the container as the liquid will expand when frozen.
Once you have your Negroni mixture ready, place it in the freezer and let it chill for at least a few hours, or until it's completely frozen. I typically leave mine in the freezer overnight to ensure it's thoroughly chilled. When you're ready to enjoy a Negroni, simply take it out of the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to slightly thaw. Give it a good shake or stir to remix any ingredients that may have separated during freezing, and then pour it into a glass. Garnish with a twist of orange peel or a slice of orange, and your frozen Negroni is ready to be enjoyed!
One of the great things about freezing a Negroni is that it doesn't dilute like a traditional cocktail would when ice is added. This means that you get to enjoy the full flavor and intensity of the drink without any dilution. It's like having a perfectly mixed and chilled Negroni every time, without the need for ice.
In addition to Negronis, other classic cocktails that call for aged spirits, such as an Old-Fashioned, Sazerac, or Manhattan, are also prime candidates for pre-batching and freezing. These cocktails often benefit from a bit of dilution and chilling, and freezing them allows you to have them on hand whenever the mood strikes.
So go ahead and give it a try – freeze a Negroni and experience the convenience and deliciousness of having a perfectly chilled cocktail whenever you desire. Cheers!