Written by: Ryan Carter
Updated on: 6/3/2025

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Crafting the Perfect Smoky Mezcal Negroni

Looking to shake up your classic Negroni? Enter the Mezcal Negroni. This smoky twist on the beloved cocktail swaps out gin for mezcal, creating a rich, complex flavor profile that intrigues the palate.

Choosing the Best Mezcal

• Choose a mezcal with a balance of smoke and sweetness. A joven (young) mezcal often offers vibrant, floral notes alongside its signature smokiness.
• Consider trying a reputable brand such as Del Maguey or Montelobos for a consistent, intriguing flavor.

Mezcal’s smoky character perfectly complements the bitter notes of Campari and the sweetness of sweet vermouth.

Mezcal Negroni Recipe

• Ingredients:
• 30 ml mezcal
• 30 ml Campari
• 30 ml sweet vermouth

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add mezcal, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
3. Stir until well-chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled rocks glass over a large ice cube.
5. Garnish with an orange twist.

• Stirring ensures a perfectly balanced drink without over-dilution.
• The orange twist enhances the citrusy aroma, complementing the mezcal's smoky bite.

Variations to Explore

Smoky Citrus Negroni

• Add a dash of orange bitters to the recipe.
• Garnish with a charred orange wheel.

The bitters enhance citrus notes, playing beautifully with the mezcal’s smokiness.

Herbal Mezcal Negroni

• Use a rosemary-infused simple syrup instead of sweet vermouth.

Infusing rosemary deepens the herbal quality, adding another layer of complexity.

Conclusion

The Mezcal Negroni is a smoky rendition of a classic cocktail that challenges and delights the taste buds with every sip. Whether you keep it simple or try a creative variation, your journey through the nuanced world of mezcal and bitters will be a rewarding adventure. Ready to explore the smoky depths? Give the Mezcal Negroni a try and let the flavors transport you to a new realm of cocktail enjoyment.