No-groni (Non-Alcoholic Negroni)
A bittersweet non alcoholic negroni: equal parts NA bitter aperitif and NA red vermouth alternative, stirred and poured over a big ice cube with an orange peel. Ready in 3 minutes.
Prep Time 3 minutes mins
Total Time 3 minutes mins
Course Drinks
Cuisine Italian
- 1.5 oz non-alcoholic bitter aperitif 3 tbsp, chilled
- 1.5 oz non-alcoholic red vermouth alternative 3 tbsp, chilled
- 1 oz non-alcoholic gin alternative optional; if using, drop the aperitif and vermouth to 1 oz each
- ice for stirring
- 1 large ice cube for serving
- 1 strip orange peel about 2 inches, for garnish
Add the NA bitter aperitif, NA red vermouth alternative and NA gin alternative (if using) to a mixing glass or any tall glass filled with ice.
Stir for about 20 seconds until very cold.
Put one large ice cube in a rocks glass and strain the drink over it.
Squeeze the orange peel over the glass, shiny side down, to release the oils. Rub it around the rim, then drop it in. Sip slowly and feel fancy.
DIY version (no NA spirits): stir 1 oz fresh pink grapefruit juice, 1 oz red grape juice (100% juice), 1 oz strong-brewed rooibos tea (cooled) and 1/2 oz strong-brewed hibiscus tea (cooled) with ice, then strain over a big cube with an orange peel. Brew the teas strong: 2 tea bags in 1/2 cup hot water for 5 minutes. Taste and add 1/2 tsp simple syrup if it's too tart.
How to order it at a bar: "Do you have a zero-proof bitter aperitif? Could you make a non-alcoholic negroni, stirred, on a big cube with an orange peel?" No NA bottles? Ask for grapefruit juice, a splash of cranberry and soda water over ice with an orange peel.
Allergen and label notes: NA aperitifs and vermouth alternatives vary a lot. Many contain added sugar, some contain sulfites or artificial colors, and some are labeled "non-alcoholic" but still contain a trace of alcohol (up to 0.5% ABV in the US). Check labels if that matters to you. Cocktail bitters usually contain alcohol, so this recipe skips them. Grapefruit juice can interact with some medications; check with your doctor or pharmacist if you're not sure. Hibiscus tea is often not recommended during pregnancy, so skip it or ask your doctor.
Make it a spritz: top with 2 oz soda water for a lighter, less bitter drink. Keyword non-alcoholic negroni