Navy Negroni Fizz

Campari (used Select)

Campari is a quintessential ingredient in the Negroni family, providing a vibrant red hue and a complex flavor profile that balances bitterness with herbal and citrus notes. In this Navy Negroni Fizz, using Select Campari enhances the cocktail's depth, as it is slightly less bitter and more aromatic than traditional Campari, making it a perfect match for the other ingredients. The herbal complexity of Select Campari complements the gin and lime juice, while its bitterness adds a necessary counterpoint to the sweetness of the Maraschino liqueur. If you prefer a more pronounced bitterness, you could opt for the classic Campari, but this may overshadow the delicate flavors of the other components. When measuring, ensure you use a jigger for precision, as the balance of flavors is crucial in this cocktail.

Perry’s Tot Navy Strength Gin

Perry’s Tot Navy Strength gin is a standout choice for this cocktail due to its higher alcohol content (57% ABV), which not only adds a robust backbone to the drink but also allows the gin's botanicals to shine through even when mixed. This gin features a blend of traditional botanicals with a bold juniper presence, complemented by citrus and spice notes that enhance the overall complexity of the Navy Negroni Fizz. The higher proof also helps to balance the sweetness of the Maraschino liqueur and the acidity of the lime juice. If Perry’s Tot is unavailable, a similar navy strength gin like Hayman’s or Plymouth could work, but be mindful that they may impart different flavor profiles, potentially altering the cocktail's character. When measuring, be precise, as the potency of the gin will significantly influence the drink's overall strength.

Lime Juice

Fresh lime juice is essential in the Navy Negroni Fizz, providing a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the egg white and balances the sweetness of the Maraschino liqueur. The tartness of the lime juice enhances the herbal notes of the Campari and the botanicals of the gin, creating a refreshing contrast that elevates the cocktail. Always opt for freshly squeezed lime juice over bottled varieties, as the latter can lack the vibrant flavor and aroma that fresh juice brings. If you want to experiment, you could substitute with lemon juice for a different citrus profile, but this will shift the drink's balance slightly towards a more tart flavor. When measuring, use a citrus juicer for efficiency and to ensure you extract the maximum amount of juice.

Egg White

The inclusion of egg white in the Navy Negroni Fizz is what gives this cocktail its signature frothy texture and silky mouthfeel. The egg white acts as a stabilizer, creating a luscious foam that enhances the drinking experience and adds visual appeal. It also softens the overall flavor profile, allowing the other ingredients to meld together harmoniously. For the best results, use fresh, high-quality egg whites, and consider using pasteurized egg whites if you're concerned about food safety. If you prefer to avoid egg whites, you could use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a vegan alternative, which will provide a similar texture but may impart a slight bean flavor. When incorporating the egg white, remember to dry shake (shake without ice) first to emulsify it before adding ice for chilling.