Skip to Content
Recipes

How to Make a ‘Count Mario Tucci’ Negroni

Rosanna Scotto and Max Tucci with Negronis

One of the most legendary and celebrated cocktails in the world is the Italian Negroni. As noted in my entertaining/cookbook, The Delmonico Way: Sublime Entertaining & Legendary Recipes from the Restaurant that Made New York, my father, Mario Tucci, the famed restaurateur, first discovered the Negroni at Harry's Bar in Firenze. He insisted on having it Delmonico’s, and decades later, I insisted on having the cocktail in my book.

As legend has it, and as I write in the pages of my book, "The story of the Negroni began in 1919 at the Caffè Casoni in Florence. There’s no documented historical account, but it is believed by cocktailians that Count Camillo Negroni invented the drink when he ordered an Americano made with gin in place of the usual soda water from bartender Fosco Scarselli."

Legend also has it that when my father first met my mother, he served her a Negroni and said, “If she can stand up after a Negroni, she’s a keeper.” My father’s secrets for this cocktail are to serve it in a chilled balloon glass, garnish with an orange peel, and top it off with a superb vintage Champagne.

In the spirit of the Delmonico way, I give to you the recipe of the Mario Tucci Negroni. Cin-Cin and Salute!

How to Make a 'Count Mario Tucci' Negroni

How to Make a 'Count Mario Tucci' Negroni

Recipe by Max Tucci
0.0 from 0 votes
Course: Recipes
Servings

1

servings
Prep time

1

minute
Cooking time

minutes

Ingredients

  • Ice cubes

  • 1 ounce 1 Campari

  • 1 ounce 1 gin

  • 1 ounce 1 sweet red vermouth

  • 1 1 orange peel twist

  • 1 ounce 1 (a splash) Champagne

Directions

  • Fill a frozen balloon glass with plenty of ice.
  • Pour Campari, gin, and vermouth over the ice cubes. Gently stir with a bar spoon.
  • Garnish with the orange twist.
  • Add a splash of Champagne and serve.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @appetitomagazine on Instagram and hashtag it with #italianfoodanddrink

Like this recipe?

Follow @Appetitomagazine on Pinterest

Follow us on Facebook!

Follow us on Facebook

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Appetito

Heirloom Recipes from the Scotto Family of Pelato

Anthony Scotto III reflects on the family recipes and traditions behind Pelato.

February 13, 2026

Spritzed With Love: A Valentine’s Day Citrus Cake

Inspired by a first sip of Aperol spritz in Venice, this light citrus cake is the perfect Valentine’s Day dessert to share with someone you love.

February 13, 2026

Joanna Moeller Shines on Good Day New York for Valentine’s Day

Appetito contributor Joanna Moller visited the set of Good Day New York to share a Valentine's Day menu that featured her Lobster Risotto.

February 13, 2026

New York-Style Heart-Shaped Pizza at Home for Valentine’s Day

A heart-shaped pizza is a simple, playful way to show a little extra love around the table.

February 12, 2026

Shared with heART: Valentine’s Month at Mozzarella & Vino

The Midtown Italian restaurant presents a month-long exhibition by Benito Macerata and a special wine and dining event in celebration of Valentine’s month.

February 12, 2026

Cannizzaro Sauces: Old World Flavor, New South Home

From farmers markets to regional shelves, a Charlotte sauce company grows one jar at a time.

February 12, 2026
See all posts