Bittersweet Symphony:
Making Negroni & Italian Aperitivo Cocktails in Florence, Italy

Love iconic Italian cocktails such as the Negroni? Curious about the world of bitters like Campari and historic vermouths like Antica Formula?

This cocktail lesson in Florence is an exclusive experience with Italy’s expert bartenders at top rated bars in the heart of Florence. You’ll learn how to make craft versions of key Italian cocktails and leave with 50Best-level bartending knowledge.

These drinks are much more than a couple or few parts of this/that and pouring over ice- after our lesson you’ll appreciate what distinguishes a Florentine Negroni and discover your favorite Italian cocktails like the Spritz and Bellini made with hard-to-find bitters and seasonal fruits.

You’ll learn the tiny tricks and fine details like proper temperatures, ideal dilutions, ice secrets, essential oils and garnishes which make a craft cocktail a balanced piece of work.

Apart from the technical intel you’ll gain, this is a fun activity to do with like-minded travelers led by one of Italy’s leading bartenders & beverage experts in between sightseeing and dinner hours. This experience is intended for curious drinkers of all levels, and will provide skills suitable for home bartending.

Included is a spread of gourmet Italian bar snacks which pair intentionally with the drinks at hand. After this lesson, you’ll feel confident to prepare notable Italian cocktail & snack gatherings back home. All ingredients used will be of utmost quality and you’ll leave with a priceless experience and knowledge you’ll be able to apply for years to come.

  • • Meet at a highly ranked bar hidden in the heart of the historical center away from the crowds

    • Craft at least 3 different cocktails including Negroni plus others based on your preferences and season (for private bookings)

    • Small Group Lessons will make 3 drinks: Negroni, Spritz, Americano and a seasonal sparkling cocktail (i.e. Limoncello spritz, Bellini, Rossini, etc)

    • Guided lesson led by one of Florence’s most seasoned, award-winning bartenders with a 50Best Bars background

    • Learn the secrets behind Italian spirits and the detailed tricks you’ll be taught in a hands-on environment

    • Taste the difference between classic and artisanal spirits, bitters and liqueurs and how to use them

    • Understand not all bottles are made equally and how to pair them correctly- essentially the art of flavor balancing!

    • Imbibe in craft preparations and learn their decades of history

    • Snack on aperitivo pairings like fried croquettes made with local cheeses, Italian panini bites, olives, nuts etc

    • Leave with a deepened knowledge of Italy’s cocktail repertoire and small-batch gins made in Italy, the legacy of Campari and historic, craft vermouths

    Duration: 1.5hrs

    Inclusions: All drinks, hands-on lesson of a min. of 3 craft cocktails plus an overview of techniques, food pairings and personable, bilingual bartender instructor

    Not included: Travel insurance, transport, additional tastings and trip cancellation insurance.

    You will be able to taste your creations so be sure to have eaten & hydrated substantially throughout the day prior attending your lesson and drink responsibly.

    Enjoy the personal attention of the bartenders leading the lesson, you'll leave with a deeper understanding of how to make craft Italian cocktails.

  • Private Lesson Cost: Depends on group size and request. 1-2 adults = $225 pp, 3-5 adults = $175 pp, 6-10 adults = $135 pp

    Start time: 6:00pm

    Days: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs ONLY

    For larger groups/discounts- please inquire.

 
 

*Please note all pricing is in USD$. Click on "Private Lesson Pricing & Schedule" to expand and view pricing details.

Still curious? Consult these FAQs

  • Our cocktail-making lessons are held in the historic city center, centrally located near the Duomo area. When you book with us we are happy to provide you with exact venue details!

  • Absolutely! Our standard lessons focus on classic Italian cocktails, often with a Negroni-themed approach. That said, we’re happy to create a bespoke experience if there’s a specific cocktail or style you’re interested in learning more about. Just let us know your preferences when you inquire or book, and we’ll check on feasibility.