The Negroni once again confirms its status as the world’s most popular classic cocktail in 2026. According to Beverfood, based on data from the Drinks International Cocktail Report 2026—one of the most authoritative publications in the mixology and beverage industry, compiled from a survey of leading cocktail bars across more than 25 countries—the iconic Italian aperitif continues to be one of the leading protagonists of the global mixology scene.
The report, one of the beverage industry’s most respected annual surveys, is based on responses from leading cocktail bars across more than 25 countries. It reveals that the Negroni ranks among the top three most-ordered classic cocktails in more than half of the venues surveyed, reinforcing its position as a defining drink in the cocktail trends of 2026.
Why the Negroni continues to dominate global mixology
Created in Florence in the early twentieth century, the Negroni has become one of Italy’s most internationally recognised cocktails. Its enduring success stems from a simple yet distinctive recipe that continues to resonate with evolving consumer preferences and the modern cocktail culture.
As highlighted by Beverfood, citing the Drinks International report, the Negroni performs particularly well in key horeca and premium beverage markets, including:
- Italy
- Mexico
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
- China
Its widespread popularity reflects growing consumer demand for iconic, high-quality drinks with a strong identity and heritage.
Cocktail trends 2026: Negroni, Martini and Espresso Martini on the rise
Beyond the Negroni, the Cocktail Report 2026 points to the resurgence of spirit-forward classics, where premium base spirits and minimalist recipes take centre stage.
Among the best-performing cocktails are:
- Old Fashioned
- Dry Martini
- Espresso Martini
Notably, the Espresso Martini has secured a stable place in the global top five best-selling cocktails, highlighting the appeal of drinks that combine premium positioning, familiar flavours and strong social-media appeal.
The Negroni leads beverage and hospitality trends
The report portrays a mixology market increasingly focused on:
- International classic cocktails;
- Simplicity of execution;
- High-quality ingredients;
- Product storytelling;
- Strong regional and cultural identity.
Within this landscape, the Negroni stands out as one of the best examples of a cocktail capable of combining Italian tradition, premium positioning and global recognition.
For the hospitality and beverage sectors, its continued international success further confirms the growing influence of Italian mixology in contemporary cocktail bar strategies and in the evolution of premium out-of-home consumption.
Source: Beverfood, based on the Drinks International Cocktail Report 2026.
PUBLICATION
10/06/2026
