The Negroni Sbagliato is a sparkling aperitivo cocktail poured at Grappa in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood. Italian for “mistaken Negroni,” it swaps the gin of a classic Negroni for sparkling wine, building on Punt e Mes, Leopold’s Aperitivo and Cava. It is on our list for guests who love the bittersweet character of a Negroni but want something lighter, fizzier and made for the start of the evening.

What’s In It

The build follows the famous happy accident. In place of gin we pour Cava, a Spanish sparkling wine, over equal measures of Punt e Mes, a bittersweet Italian vermouth, and Leopold’s Aperitivo, a bittersweet orange-and-herb liqueur. Stirred gently to keep the bubbles and finished over ice, the result is bittersweet, citrusy and effervescent. The Cava lengthens and lightens the drink, turning the Negroni’s bold backbone into a sparkling aperitivo.

About This Cocktail

The Sbagliato was born in 1970s Milan, when a bartender at Bar Basso reportedly reached for sparkling wine instead of gin while making a Negroni. The “mistake” became a classic. At Grappa, we honor that origin with Punt e Mes and Leopold’s Aperitivo for the signature bittersweet-orange profile, topped with Cava for lift and sparkle. It is the quintessential aperitivo: bitter enough to wake the palate, light enough to keep going.

Tasting Notes

The aroma is bittersweet and orange-forward with herbal depth. The palate is effervescent and balanced, the vermouth and aperitivo giving gentle bitterness while the Cava keeps it crisp and dry. The finish is clean, bittersweet and refreshing, far lighter than a traditional Negroni.

What to Pair It With

This sparkling aperitivo is built to open a meal. Pair it with our Charcuterie Board, the crispy Saganaki, or Heirloom Tomatoes & Burrata. See the full dine-in menu for more.

How It’s Served at Grappa

The Negroni Sbagliato is a hand-crafted cocktail at $17, served over ice.

FAQ

What’s in the Negroni Sbagliato?

Punt e Mes, Leopold’s Aperitivo and Cava sparkling wine, which replaces the gin of a classic Negroni.

What does it taste like?

Bittersweet and orange-forward with herbal depth, effervescent and crisp from the Cava, finishing clean and refreshing.

Is it bitter or strong?

It is pleasantly bittersweet but much lighter than a classic Negroni. Topping it with sparkling wine instead of gin makes it lower in strength and more refreshing.

Ready to visit? Book a table, browse the full cocktail list, and see the dine-in menu.