About the Cardinale cocktail
The Cardinale is a classic Negroni variation made with gin, Campari, and dry vermouth instead of sweet vermouth. The result is leaner, drier, and sharper than a traditional Negroni, while still keeping the familiar bitter citrus, herbal depth, and bold red color that make Campari cocktails so distinctive.
The cocktail is said to have been created in Rome for a visiting German cardinal, with the name referencing both the Catholic title and the deep red color associated with a cardinal’s robes. For Negroni fans, the Cardinale is a natural next drink to try when you want something more austere, crisp, and aperitif-driven.
