The ultimate aperitivo, the Negroni was reportedly created in 1919 by a bartender at Caffe Casoni in Florence, Italy for Count Camillo Negroni when he requested his regular drink, the Americano, be strengthened by replacing the soda water with gin. The combination of gin, sweet vermouth and Campari can be a challenge to the uninitiated but once converted few ever turn away from this most assured blend of flavors.