Mezcal Negroni

The cocktail world has given us many enchanting Negroni recipes, but the mezcal Negroni may be the most intriguing of all the riffs. The classic Negroni is already near perfect with its three ingredients—gin, Campari and sweet vermouth—in equal parts. But replacing the botanical gin with smoky mezcal balances Campari’s elegant herbal bitterness to make a true work of art.

Mezcal’s smokiness makes this Negroni variation perfect for sipping while curled up by a crackling fire come the colder months, but there’s no need to limit the mezcal Negroni to sweater weather. As a lover of all things agave, I can assure you that this tipple hits the spot in any season.

Mezcal Negroni Ingredients

• Campari: Like a classic Negroni, the mezcal version requires Campari. This bitter, herbaceous, spicy aperitif has a hint of sunny citrus.
• Mezcal: Aging isn’t as important in the mezcal world as it is with tequila, but both joven and reposado mezcals are lovely in a Negroni. Whatever you do, pick up a good-quality mezcal. Please, no tequila worms.
• Sweet vermouth: Nothing balances the bitterness of Campari quite like sweet vermouth. I’m partial to Carpano Antica, but I recommend checking out Punt e Mes, Dolin and Martini & Rossi as well.
• Orange garnish: A simple orange slice or peel is ideal for a mezcal Negroni. If using orange peel, gently squeeze it over the cocktail to release a whisper-thin layer of orange oils, which adds a beautiful citrusy finishing touch.

Directions

Step 1: Combine the ingredients

Pour the Campari, mezcal and sweet vermouth into a mixing glass with ice. Stir until chilled.

Step 2: Strain, garnish and serve

Place a large ice cube into a chilled old-fashioned glass. Strain the cocktail into the glass. Garnish with an orange slice.

Editor’s Tip: A single large ice cube melts more slowly, allowing ample time to enjoy your Negroni without diluting it. If you’re serious about cocktails, it’s worth investing in a couple of large ice molds. It’s something every home bar setup needs.

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Mezcal Negroni Variations

• Make a white mezcal Negroni: Another popular riff on this classic cocktail, the white Negroni is made with gin, Lillet Blanc and Suze gentian liqueur. Try using mezcal instead of the gin to make a white mezcal Negroni. It’s a sublime summer drink.
• Mix yourself a Rosita: Combine 1-1/2 ounces of tequila, 1/2 ounce of dry vermouth, 1/2 ounce of sweet vermouth and 1/2 ounce of Campari. Add a dash of bitters, stir the ingredients with ice then strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with a single large ice cube. Garnish it with a grapefruit peel.
• Use Cynar: This mezcal Negroni recipe variation is a big hit with cocktail enthusiasts. Instead of Campari, use Cynar, a bittersweet, artichoke-dominant Italian aperitif.

Can you make a mezcal Negroni ahead of time?

Thanks to this spirit-heavy recipe, Negronis are stellar for making ahead. Some folks (and bars) even age their Negronis in miniature oak barrels. (Aging the cocktail in a barrel adds more depth and complexity, rounding off harsh notes while adding a hint of oaky aromas and flavors.) After mixing the batch of Negronis, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to one month. When cocktail hour arrives, pop a large ice cube into a nicely chilled rocks glass and pour the Negroni over the ice.

Mezcal Negroni Tips

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What type of glass do you use for a mezcal Negroni?

Specific cocktail glasses make a difference in the enjoyment of certain drinks, and the Negroni and its many iterations fall into that camp. Like other spirit-forward libations, you’ll want to reach for an old-fashioned or rocks glass for your mezcal Negroni.

What is the best type of mezcal for a mezcal Negroni?

Both joven (unaged) and reposado (aged between 2 to 12 months) make brilliant cocktails. While a good-quality mezcal is a must for mezcal Negronis, you don’t need to get wildly expensive. Save the spendy bottles for sipping. A few mezcal producers to look for when stocking your bar cart are Del Maguey Vida, Banhez and Rey Campero.

What can you serve with a mezcal Negroni?

As an aperitif cocktail, this Negroni variant goes well with a cheese or charcuterie board. With its smoky, bittersweet, grassy, herbaceous profile, the mezcal Negroni is a knockout pairing for chicken mole, carne asada and most chorizo recipes. I’d also serve this one up with butter-laden pasta loaded with seasonal veggies, with pulled pork or roast duck, or as a partner to bacon-wrapped scallops.