Negroni Week 2019 Opening Party

Overview

Back in 1919, a count walked into Cafe Casoni in Florence, Italy, and ordered a drink. No, this isn't the start of a joke — but it was the start of something. The cocktail was an Americano with a twist — instead of the traditional soda water, this patron wanted gin, instead. And the man? Camillo Negroni.

Now, 100 years later, the negroni — a delicious mix of gin, Campari and sweet red vermouth — is one of the most popular cocktails around. So much so, the world now has an entire week dedicated to celebrating the aperitif. Each year, participating bars donate a portion of the revenue of drinks sold during Negroni Week to a charity of their choice.

Of course, with 2019 being the centenary of the negroni's inception, things are kicking up a notch. So, to kick off the festivities, Zeta Bar in Hilton Sydney will host a launch party on Monday, June 24, and it's enlisted some of Sydney best bars to take part. 15 Sydney bars — Big Poppa's, Bistecca, Bulletin Place, Burrow Bar, Caffè Bartolo, Continental Deli Bar Bistro, Door Knock, Earl's Juke Joint, Maybe Sammy, Matteo Downtown, Old Mate's Place, PS40, Ramblin' Rascal Tavern, ReccoLab and This Must Be The Place— will be serving their own twists on the classic negroni for just $10 each. Plus, all proceeds will go straight to charity. Yep, every single dollar.

Alongside the negronis, there'll be complimentary canapes and antipasti throughout the evening. Meanwhile, DJ Antonio Zambarelli will be providing the soundtrack.

For the party, Zeta Bar will be transformed into an art gallery and will showcase contemporary art by Saint Ali, Marissa Mu, Jesse Chick and John Sheehy. The evening will end with the main event, a raffle, where an original artwork painted by 2018 Archibald Packing Room Prize winner Jamie Preisz will be given away. All the proceeds will go towards a mental health charity.

Negroni Week Launch 2019 will take place from 6–9pm at Zeta Bar, Hilton Sydney. The event is free to attend but you can register your interest here. Plus, discover more ways to experience Negroni Week with the help of our handy bar finder or on Campari's website.