The Negroni Sbagliato is one of those cocktails that proves a mistake can turn into something really good. It is bittersweet, bubbly, lightly citrusy and much less spirit-forward than a classic Negroni. Instead of gin, the drink uses sparkling wine, usually Prosecco, alongside Campari and sweet vermouth. The result is a refreshing Italian aperitivo that feels special without requiring complicated bartending skills.
What Is a Negroni Sbagliato?
“Sbagliato” means “mistaken” in Italian. The cocktail is traditionally linked to bartender Mirko Stocchetto and Bar Basso in Milan, where sparkling wine was used in place of gin while making a Negroni. That simple substitution created a lighter, fizzy version of the familiar bitter cocktail. The drink is traditionally made with equal parts Campari, sweet red vermouth and sparkling wine, although adding a little extra Prosecco is an easy way to make it softer and more refreshing.
Negroni Sbagliato Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Campari | 1 ounce | Adds the signature bitter, herbal and citrusy flavor. |
| Sweet vermouth | 1 ounce | Brings sweetness and depth to balance the Campari. |
| Prosecco | 1 ounce or more | Adds bubbles and makes the cocktail lighter. |
| Orange peel or orange wedge | For garnish | Adds a fresh citrus aroma. |
| Ice | As needed | Chills the cocktail. |
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How to Make a Negroni Sbagliato
1. Fill the Glass With Ice
Fill a rocks glass with fresh ice. You can also use a wine glass if you prefer a little more room for the sparkling wine.
2. Add Campari and Vermouth
Pour the Campari and sweet vermouth over the ice. Give them a gentle stir for about 10 seconds so they become chilled and properly combined.
3. Add the Prosecco
Slowly pour in the Prosecco. The traditional approach uses equal parts, but I like adding a little more Prosecco when I want a lighter and fizzier drink. Stir once or twice very gently so you do not knock too much carbonation out of the cocktail.
4. Add the Orange Garnish
Twist a strip of orange peel over the top of the drink to release its citrus oils, then drop it into the glass. An orange wedge also works well.
What Does a Negroni Sbagliato Taste Like?
The first thing you notice is the bitterness from Campari, but it does not dominate the drink. Sweet vermouth rounds out the sharper edges while Prosecco adds bubbles and a little fruitiness. The orange garnish gives the cocktail a fresh citrus aroma. Compared with a classic Negroni, the Sbagliato is lighter, more sparkling and easier to sip.
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What You Can Do Better
The ingredients are simple, so small details make a noticeable difference. Start with well-chilled Prosecco and vermouth. If the drink tastes too bitter, add a little more Prosecco rather than immediately adding extra sweetness. A good-quality sweet vermouth also makes the cocktail taste much more balanced.
Do not stir the sparkling wine aggressively. Once the Prosecco goes in, a couple of gentle turns are enough. For the best flavor, use fresh ice and garnish with a freshly cut orange peel or wedge.
Tips for the Best Negroni Sbagliato
- Chill everything: Cold ingredients make the drink taste cleaner and more refreshing.
- Use fresh vermouth: Once opened, sweet vermouth is best stored in the refrigerator and used while it is still fresh.
- Choose a dry Prosecco: A dry sparkling wine keeps the cocktail from becoming overly sweet.
- Adjust the bubbles: Add extra Prosecco if you prefer a lighter cocktail.
- Use an orange garnish: The citrus aroma works especially well with Campari.
- Keep the stirring gentle: Too much stirring can flatten the sparkling wine.
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Negroni Sbagliato vs. Classic Negroni
| Feature | Negroni | Negroni Sbagliato |
|---|---|---|
| Base spirit | Gin | Prosecco or sparkling wine |
| Campari | Yes | Yes |
| Sweet vermouth | Yes | Yes |
| Texture | Still | Lightly sparkling |
| Flavor | Bold and spirit-forward | Lighter, bitter and bubbly |
When to Serve a Negroni Sbagliato
This is an excellent aperitivo cocktail before dinner but it also works nicely for relaxed gatherings, brunches, summer evenings and celebrations. Because it is quick to build, it is particularly useful when you need to make several drinks without spending much time behind the bar.
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Negroni Sbagliato Nutrition Information
The following is an approximate estimate for one cocktail made with 1 ounce each of Campari, sweet vermouth and Prosecco. Actual nutrition will vary depending on the brands and amounts used.
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 12–15 g |
| Sugar | 10–12 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does Negroni Sbagliato mean?
Negroni Sbagliato means “mistaken Negroni” in Italian. The name refers to the story of sparkling wine being used instead of gin in a Negroni.
Is Negroni Sbagliato made with Prosecco?
Yes. Prosecco is the traditional sparkling wine used in a Negroni Sbagliato, although another dry sparkling wine can be used if needed.
Can I make a Negroni Sbagliato sweeter?
Yes. You can add a little more sweet vermouth, although adding extra Prosecco is another good option if you want to soften the bitterness while keeping the cocktail light and bubbly.
What glass should I use?
A rocks glass filled with ice is a classic choice. A wine glass can also work, especially if you want a little more space for sparkling wine.
What should I use as a garnish?
Orange is the classic choice. Use an orange peel for a stronger citrus aroma or an orange wedge for a more casual presentation.
