Negroni, Eddie Cruz’s Go-To Drink
In the heart of Miami, a city known for its vibrant nightlife and exquisite taste in cocktails, stands Jensen’s Liquor, since 1978, a beacon for those in pursuit of fine spirits and unique flavors. At the helm is 2nd Generation owner Eddie Cruz, a connoisseur of exceptional drinks and the driving force behind the establishment’s reputation. Among the myriad of cocktails that have graced the menus and palates of Jensen’s patrons, one stands out as Eddie’s recent favorite: the Negroni.
The Negroni, with its rich history and simple yet profound flavor profile, is a cocktail that commands respect. Originating in Italy in the early 20th century, it is said to have been concocted when Count Camillo Negroni asked his bartender to strengthen his favorite cocktail, the Americano, by replacing the soda water with gin. This blend of gin, vermouth rosso (sweet vermouth), and Campari, garnished with an orange peel, has since become a timeless classic, celebrated worldwide for its balanced bitterness and aromatic complexity.
What makes the Negroni a fascinating subject, beyond its delectable taste, is its simplicity. The cocktail is an equal-part mixture of its three key ingredients: gin, for its botanical sharpness; vermouth rosso, for a sweet, herbal depth; and Campari, for a quintessential bitter edge. This triad of flavors creates a harmonious balance that is both invigorating and sophisticated, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
Delving into the preparation of a Negroni reveals a process as straightforward as its ingredient list. To craft Eddie Cruz’s go-to drink, one simply needs to mix one part gin, one part vermouth rosso, and one part Campari in a mixing glass with ice. Stirred until well-chilled, this concoction is then strained into a chilled glass over ice and garnished with a slice of orange peel, releasing the essential oils and adding a fragrant citrus aroma to the drink’s robust profile.
Ernest Hemingway once said, “I drink to make other people more interesting.” This quote resonates with the spirit of the Negroni. Like Hemingway’s view on drinking, the Negroni has the power to transform moments, making the ordinary extraordinary and turning simple gatherings into memorable experiences. It’s a cocktail that not only excites the taste buds but also enriches the moment, paralleling the way Hemingway’s drinking enhanced his view of those around him.
The takeaway from this exploration into Eddie Cruz’s preferred cocktail is a reminder of the beauty in simplicity. The Negroni teaches us that elegance and complexity need not be complicated but can arise from the careful balance of a few quality components. It’s a lesson in life as much as it is in cocktails: that harmony and depth can be achieved by focusing on the essentials.
We at Jensen’s Liquors, under the guidance of Eddie Cruz, invite you to experience the timeless elegance of the Negroni. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail aficionado or new to the world of spirits, the Negroni offers a taste of history, culture, and the art of mixology. Visit us at Jensen’s Liquors or call us at 305-442-0804 for more information on how you can bring this classic cocktail into your home. Let’s celebrate the joy of fine drinks together!
