Few cocktails command the respect of a Negroni — that striking crimson pour, the perfect balance of bitter and sweet, and the confidence of simplicity. However, at Durham Distillery, we believe even icons can evolve...
Our Barrel Aged Negroni reimagines the timeless trio — gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth — with Conniption Barrel Aged Gin at its core. The result is a drink that’s deeper, rounder, and beautifully complex, where oak and spice complement the Negroni’s signature bite.
It’s a cocktail that honors its Italian roots while embracing the craftsmanship of modern American gin.
The Negroni’s story dates back to early 20th-century Florence, when Count Camillo Negroni asked his bartender to stiffen his Americano by swapping soda for gin. The result became a global icon of balance and bitterness, the ultimate aperitif.
Over the last century, the Negroni has become a canvas for creativity. From white and mezcal variations to barrel-aged renditions, bartenders have found countless ways to explore its form. Barrel aging, in particular, adds warmth and harmony — taming Campari’s sharp edges while amplifying sweetness and depth.
Strain into a rocks glass over a big rock ice cube.
Express and garnish with an orange peel.
Recipe Note
Why We Love It
The Conniption Barrel Aged Gin brings a new dimension to the Negroni — notes of oak, vanilla, and citrus peel mingle with the vermouth’s spice and Campari’s bitterness. The barrel softens the edges, creating a silky texture and a rich amber tone that transforms this classic from a sharp aperitif to a slow-sipping indulgence.
