Christmas Negroni Recipe

This Christmas negroni is like your standard negroni — but dressed up in cloves, cinnamon, and orange zest like it’s going to a holiday party. It’s got that same bitter kick but mellowed out with a sweet spiced gin. Cozy, boozy, make-ahead friendly. Honestly, it’s a festive win in a glass.

Ingredients Needed

For the Infused Gin (makes ~550ml):

• 100g golden caster sugar
• 4 cloves
• Zest of 2 oranges
• 2 fresh bay leaves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 star anise
• 500ml Bombay Sapphire gin

For the Cocktail (serves 2):

• 70ml infused gin
• 50ml Martini bitters
• 50ml Martini Bianco
• 2 slices of orange

For Assembling:

• Ice cubes
• Old fashioned whisky glasses

How To Make Christmas Negroni

1. Make the Infused Gin: Zest the oranges and toss into a small pan with the sugar, cloves, bay leaves, cinnamon, and star anise. No gin yet. Just the spice crew.
2. Simmer the Syrup: Bring it all to a gentle boil, then simmer for 8–10 mins till it thickens a bit. It’ll smell like someone lit a Christmas candle in the kitchen. Cool it down fully.
3. Add the Gin: Pour the cooled syrup (with the bits still in) into a glass bottle. Add gin. Shake like it owes you money. Let it sit for at least a week. Strain before using.
4. Assemble the Cocktail: Grab two glasses. Ice in first. In a jug, mix 70ml infused gin, 50ml bitters, and 50ml Martini Bianco. Stir till cold.
5. Serve It Up: Pour into the glasses, garnish with orange slices. No umbrella needed — it’s Christmas.

Why I Love This Recipe

I made this for the first time when the Christmas playlist had been on for too long and I needed something strong but cheerful. It’s basically the grown-up version of mulled wine for negroni lovers. All the spice, none of the steam. Makes your house smell unreal, too.

Recipe Tips

• Let the infused gin sit for a full week — don’t rush it. Flavour deepens.
• Strain before using or it’ll get murky.
• Use high-quality bitters — cheap ones taste like regret.
• Martini Bianco balances the whole thing — don’t sub with dry.
• If the syrup gets too thick, thin it with a splash of gin before bottling.
• Store the infused gin in a cool, dark place.
• Batch the cocktail in advance for parties — just stir with ice before serving.

How To Store Christmas Negroni

• At Room Temperature: Infused gin only. The cocktail should be chilled.
• In the Fridge: Keep mixed negroni in a sealed bottle for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.
• In the Freezer: Infused gin stores beautifully here. Cocktails? Not ideal, but doable short-term.
• Reheating: No. This one’s a cold drink. Don’t mess with it.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ~205 kcal
• Carbs: 12g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Sugar: 11g
• Fibre: 0g
• Sodium: 5mg

Let’s Answer a Few Questions!

• Q: How long does the infused gin last?
  A: About a month, maybe more if stored right. Keep it sealed and cool.
• Q: Can I use other vermouth?
  A: You can try sweet vermouth, but Martini Bianco keeps it lighter and more festive.
• Q: Can I drink the infused gin on its own?
  A: Yep. Over ice, splash of tonic — go for it.
• Q: Can I make this a big batch for a party?
  A: Totally. Mix the cocktail ingredients x5 in a jug or bottle. Stir with ice before serving.