She Strengthens

Crafting the Perfect Virgin Negroni

The art of creating a refreshing, non-alcoholic Negroni lies in the harmonious blend of flavors. Traditionally, this iconic cocktail consists of equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari. To replicate this taste sensation without the booze, we’ll substitute these ingredients with innovative alternatives.

The Magic of Infusion

We’ll start by infusing non-alcoholic white and red wines with citrus peel and toasted spices to evoke the essence of gin and sweet vermouth. This process requires patience, as the flavors need time to meld together. But trust us, the wait is worth it!

Meet Sanbittèr: The Game-Changing Ingredient

To replace the distinctive bitterness of Campari, we’ll introduce Sanbittèr, a bright red, Italian soda that packs a punch. This unique ingredient is the key to crafting a Virgin Negroni that’s remarkably close to the original.

What You’ll Need

• Non-alcoholic or dealcoholized wines (available at well-stocked liquor stores or online)
• Sanbittèr soda (found at Italian grocers or online)
• Juniper berries, allspice berries, anise seeds, coriander seeds, grapefruit, and lemon
• A fine-mesh strainer, pint jar, and cocktail shaker

Let’s Get Started!

Step 1: Infuse the Red Wine

Toast the juniper, allspice, anise, and coriander in a small frying pan until fragrant. Then, combine the spices with the grapefruit zest and non-alcoholic red wine in a medium bowl. Cover and let it infuse at room temperature for 3 hours or refrigerate for up to 1 day.

Step 2: Infuse the White Wine

Repeat the toasting process with the juniper, anise, and coriander. Next, combine the spices with the lemon zest and non-alcoholic white wine in a medium bowl. Cover and let it infuse at room temperature for 3 hours or refrigerate for up to 1 day.

Step 3: Assemble the Drink

Chill a cocktail glass in the freezer for 5 minutes. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine 1 ounce of the red wine infusion, 1 ounce of the white wine infusion, and 1 ounce of Sanbittèr. Stir briskly until chilled, then strain into the prepared glass. Garnish with an orange twist and serve immediately.

Tips and Variations

• Refrigerate the infused wines for up to 1 month to enjoy multiple Virgin Negronis.
• Experiment with different spice combinations to create unique flavor profiles.
• Pregnant women should avoid consuming juniper berries.

Explore More Virgin Cocktails

Discover our takes on classic cocktails, reimagined without the booze:

• Virgin Bellini
• Virgin Gin and Tonic
• Virgin Pimm’s Cup
• Virgin Bramble
• Virgin Pomegranate-Lime Rickey