Aroma should be an adequate mix of herbal, bitter, and sweet. The leading note is the sting of the herbs from the gin.
I — Ice
If cubed, should be mixed in without significant melt. If block/ball, should be mixed/strained without melt. Pour over ice is fine if it doesn’t cause significant melt (chilled mix).
P — Palate
All elements in balance, herbal/citrus bitterness up front, gin is noticeable but doesn’t override Campari taste. Vermouth isn’t too sweet, but sweet enough to round off the bitterness. Taste is smooth, not too syrupy or viscous. This marker counts for 1.5 rather than 1 if Negroni is served straight up.
P — Presentation
Glass pour isn’t too full, glass is either a lowball or cocktail glass. Pour hasn’t produced too much condensation on the glass, and hasn’t spilled over. Orange twist included with correct twist over the top to give a noticeable aroma.
S — Sip
First sip is full-bodied, well mixed/balanced, and includes all of the elements of Palate. It can be stronger than a normal taste prior to ice melt. This marker counts for 1.5 rather than 1 if Negroni is served straight up.