Aquavit Negroni – A Nordic Twist on a Classic

The Negroni is a timeless cocktail known for its perfect balance of bitterness, sweetness, and herbal complexity. By swapping out gin for aquavit, this version takes on a bold Scandinavian character, with caraway and dill adding a unique depth to the drink.

Ingredients:

• 30ml Aquavit
• 30ml Campari
• 30ml sweet vermouth
• Ice cubes
• Orange peel (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice and add the aquavit, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
2. Stir well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
3. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
4. Express an orange peel over the drink to release its oils, then use it as a garnish.

Serving Suggestion:

For the best experience, serve your Aquavit Negroni in a heavy rocks glass with a large, slow-melting ice cube to maintain the perfect dilution. Consider chilling the glass beforehand for an extra refreshing touch.

To enhance the Nordic character, you can infuse the orange peel with a hint of star anise or lightly toast it before garnishing. This will complement the warm spice notes of aquavit beautifully.

Food Pairing:

The bold, herbal, and slightly bitter profile of an Aquavit Negroni pairs exceptionally well with rich, savory, and slightly salty foods. Here are some great pairing options:

• Smoked Salmon or Trout – The briny, smoky flavors contrast beautifully with the bitter-sweet complexity of the cocktail.
• Aged Cheese & Charcuterie – Think creamy blue cheese, aged cheddar, or smoked gouda alongside cured meats like prosciutto or biltong.
• Pickled Herring or Gravlax – Classic Nordic seafood dishes bring out the caraway and dill in the aquavit.
• Dark Chocolate with Sea Salt – A sweet, slightly bitter chocolate balances the herbal bitterness of the drink.