The Campari Negroni is the epitome of the classic Italian cocktail and for those in love with the romantic country have had the bitter drink at least once in their lifetime. As one of the main headliners for the nationally renowned festival, Campari truly shined last week during Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans. The festival, which runs 5 days in the Big Easy, celebrates the world of mixology and serves as the annual gathering for the cocktail world’s elite. During the lavish celebration, Campari hosted two memorable parties, one of which even topped a world record. Now that’s a reason to love the brand even more!
On Thursday, July 21, 400 cocktail enthusiasts gathered in close quarters on the 2nd floor of the Royal Sonesta Hotel in the city’s French Quarter in anticipation of what would be known as “The World’s Largest Negroni“. What unfolded before revelers was an exclusive event outfitted to replicate 1920’s Italy. 8 different styles of Negroni were poured freely by world renowned Italian bartenders donning aristocratic handlebar mustaches, 3 piece suits, and top hats in honor of Count Camillo Negroni, the cocktail’s creator. Guests were jazzed up with a 3-piece band and traditional Italian fare abounded from prosciutto to Castelvetrano olives and Parmiggiano Regiano cheese. The festive libation was made on site made on site to celebrate the “Year of the Negroni” and was presented in a handcrafted 30-gallon ice vessel. The high spirited event, a highlight of the Tales of the Cocktail festival, was orchestrated by Master Mixologist Francesco Lafranconi.
Days later, on Saturday, July 23, Campari held a special Pre-Awards Toast in the lobby of the famed Hotel Monteleone as an aperitif to the highly anticipated Tales of the Cocktail Awards Ceremony. Hundreds of cocktail aficionados lined up for the expertly crafted Classic Negronis created by Christy Pope and Chad Solomon of Cuffs & Buttons Cocktail Catering. The awards ceremony celebrated the best of the cocktail world and the nominees included Dushan Zaric, Dre Masso, Tom Chadwick, Jacques Bezuidenhout, Darcy O’Neil, Toby Cecchini, Naren Young. Guests enjoyed the lively red carpet and Tony Abou-Ganim even gave a toast to the nominees.
The Negroni (a classic recipe for you to enjoy with all of your friends):
1 oz. Beefeater 24 London Dry Gin
1 oz. Campari
1 oz. Martini Rosso
Method: Pour ingredients into a rocks glass filled with ice then stir and serve.
Garnish: Slice of orange.
Photos courtesy of Gabi Porter.
