Kingston Negroni Cocktail: A Rum-Fueled Caribbean Spin on the Italian Classic

Cocktail Snapshot

• Spirit Base: Jamaican Overproof Rum

• Flavor Profile: Bitter, tropical, herbal, rich

• Serve Style: Stirred, served over ice or up

• Difficulty: Easy

• Origin: Early 2000s, New York City (Pegu Club)

Backstory & Cultural Relevance

The Kingston Negroni is a modern reimagining of the Negroni, created by bartender Joaquín Simó during his time at New York’s iconic Pegu Club. He replaced the Negroni’s traditional gin with overproof Jamaican rum, injecting the cocktail with the island's signature funk and fire.

This version honors both Italian elegance and Caribbean swagger — making it a favorite for adventurous drinkers and a staple in the modern cocktail canon. Its name pays homage to Kingston, the lively capital of Jamaica, and the city’s deep rum heritage.

Ingredients

• 1 oz Jamaican Overproof Rum (like Smith & Cross or Wray & Nephew)

• 1 oz Sweet Vermouth

• 1 oz Campari

• Garnish: Orange twist or dehydrated citrus wheel

Method

1. Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice.

2. Stir until well-chilled (20–30 seconds).

3. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube, or serve up in a coupe.

4. Garnish with an orange twist.

Why It Works

The Kingston Negroni is a powerhouse of flavor due to:

• The depth and funk of Jamaican rum replacing gin’s botanical brightness

• The classic bitter-sweet balance of Campari and sweet vermouth

• A rich texture that amplifies the cocktail’s complexity and length

It's tropical, bold, and a bit rebellious — a true twist that stands on its own.

Variations & Twists

• White Kingston Negroni: Use white overproof rum and Cocchi Americano for a lighter, floral spin.

• Mezcal Negroni: Sub mezcal for a smoky, earthy version.

• Boulevardier Vibes: Blend half Jamaican rum, half bourbon for layered depth.

Pairing Ideas

• Jerk Chicken or Grilled Pork: Matches the rum’s spice and intensity

• Dark Chocolate or Espresso Desserts: Campari bitterness contrasts nicely

• Aged Cheeses: Rich flavors complement the cocktail’s strength

Final Sip

The Kingston Negroni is more than just a twist — it’s a reinvention. Bold, flavorful, and deeply rooted in two rich drinking cultures, it’s the perfect cocktail for those who like their classics with a little fire and funk.