Kuubalainen Negroni

The dark rum's richness gives the Negroni a deeper, almost smoky warmth that the gin version just doesn't have. Poured it over one big ice cube after dinner and the orange peel really sang. This is my new favorite way to end the week.

I was skeptical about swapping rum into a Negroni, but the aged Santiago de Cuba base gives it this rich, almost honeyed backbone that tames the Campari's bite. The bitters and vermouth still shine through, just with a warmer, more unexpected finish. Perfect for a slow evening pour.

The rum's aged depth pairs so well with the bitter vermouth that I'm already on my second bottle. The extra añejo gives it a smoothness you just don't get with gin, and it's become my go-to for slow afternoons.