A Watermelon Negroni is the ultimate summer cocktail—refreshing, slightly bitter, and bursting with juicy watermelon flavor. It takes the classic Negroni and gives it a fruity, vibrant twist that’s perfect for warm evenings. I’ve made this drink countless times, and trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser at summer gatherings. The combination of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth blends beautifully with fresh watermelon juice, creating a cocktail that’s both bold and refreshing.
Watermelon Negroni
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 1 oz (30 ml) gin
- 1 oz (30 ml) Campari
- 1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth
- 2 oz (60 ml) fresh watermelon juice
- Ice (enough for shaking and serving)
- Watermelon slice, for garnish
How to Make a Watermelon Negroni
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and watermelon juice.
- Shake well for about 15 seconds until the mixture is well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a slice of watermelon, and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Watermelon Negroni
- Use fresh watermelon juice. Bottled juice can work in a pinch, but fresh juice gives the best flavor. Just blend fresh watermelon and strain it for a smooth consistency.
- Chill your glass. A cold glass keeps your drink refreshing for longer.
- Adjust the sweetness. If you prefer a slightly less bitter cocktail, reduce the Campari a little or add a splash of simple syrup.
Variations to Try
Want to mix things up? Here are some fun twists on the classic:
Spicy Watermelon Negroni
- Add a thin slice of jalapeño to the shaker before mixing for a subtle heat.
Watermelon Negroni Spritz
- Top the finished cocktail with a splash of soda water for a lighter, bubbly version.
Minty Watermelon Negroni
- Muddle a few fresh mint leaves in the shaker before adding the other ingredients for a cooling touch.
Food Pairings
This cocktail pairs beautifully with fresh, summery dishes:
- Grilled shrimp – The smoky, charred flavor contrasts nicely with the cocktail’s fruity bitterness.
- Caprese salad – Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil bring out the sweetness in the watermelon.
- Prosciutto & melon – The salty, savory prosciutto balances the cocktail’s bright, fruity notes.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- You can mix the ingredients (minus the ice) a few hours ahead and store in the fridge. Just shake with ice before serving.
- If you have leftover watermelon juice, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a non-alcoholic version?
Yes! Swap the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth for sparkling water and a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing Virgin Watermelon Negroni.
What type of gin works best?
A London Dry gin is a great choice—it has a crisp, clean taste that complements the other flavors.
How can I make it less bitter?
Reduce the Campari slightly or use a sweeter vermouth to balance the bitterness.
Can I use frozen watermelon instead of juice?
Absolutely! Blend frozen watermelon chunks for a thicker, slushier texture.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights, and I hope it becomes one of your favorites too. Cheers! 🍉🍸
