Over 40 Bars Raise Money for Charity During ‘Negroni Week’

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) – “It is equal parts gin, sweet vermouth and Campari,” says Becca June of Bourbon “O” Bar in the Bourbon Orleans Hotel.

As Secretary of the local USBG chapter, she volunteered to organize “Negroni Week” (June 2-June8) this year in New Orleans where one dollar from every purchase goes to charity.

“The Negroni actually happens to have always been one of my favorite cocktails.”

She pours Bombay Sapphire Gin to make her classic Negroni cocktail.

“Negroni Week was sponsored by Imbibe and Campari and it is a way for bars internationally to raise money for charities of their choice.”

Next she adds the essential ingredient, Campari to the glass.

“New Orleans kind of rallied behind NOMAF and the Save Sounds Initiative. Without musicians the bartenders don’t do well and without bartenders the musicians don’t do well.” The sweet vermouth of choice for Becca June is Dolin. “It has a very aromatic but light flavor and taste.”

“There was an actually Count Negroni and he was drinking in Florence, Italy. He was at his favorite bar and he had his favorite bartender. Count Negroni’s name stuck as well as the cocktail and it’s been a classic cocktail ever since.”

To finish making the classic Negroni, June stirs and strains the liquid into a chilled cocktail glass. “It’s served up or on the rocks with an orange twist. You can either put it in the drink or discard it, guest’s preference, bartender’s preference. I like to give a little twist and add it on top to give it a little beauty.”

There are over 40 bars in New Orleans participating in “Negroni Week” and you can find a complete list along with their charity of choice below:

Apolline Restaurant- NOMAF

Apple Barrel- NOMAF

Bellocq- Hogs for the Cause

Bouligny Tavern- NOMAF

Bourbon O Bar- NOMAF

Broussard’s- NOMAF

Bruno’s Tavern- Boys Hope

Buffa’s Bar and Restaurant- NOMAF

Cane & Table- Hogs for a Cause

Chiba- NOMAF

Cocktail Bar at Windsor Court Hotel- NOMAF