Smoky Mezcal Negroni adds a sultry twist to the classic Negroni by swapping out gin for smoky mezcal.
Balanced with sweet vermouth and the sharp bitterness of Campari, this version also includes a splash of fresh citrus juice to brighten the palate.
It’s bold, refined, and perfect for sipping during golden hour. Serve it on the rocks or up, garnished with a flamed orange peel for an extra sensory kick.
Recipe for Smoky Mezcal Negroni
Equipment
- Mixing glass or cocktail shaker
- Bar spoon
- Jigger (or measuring spoons as an alternative)
- Strainer (if using a shaker)
- Rocks glass or coupe glass
- Citrus peeler or paring knife
- Lighter or match (for flaming the garnish)
Ingredients
- 1 oz mezcal
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz Campari
- 0.25 oz fresh orange juice or blood orange for deeper flavor
- Ice cubes
- Orange peel for garnish
Instructions
- Chill the Glass:Place your rocks or coupe glass in the freezer or fill with ice water while preparing the drink.
- Mix Ingredients:In a mixing glass or shaker, combine mezcal, sweet vermouth, Campari, and freshly squeezed orange juice.
- Add Ice and Stir:Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds until well-chilled and slightly diluted.
- Prepare the Glass:If you used ice water to chill your glass, discard it. Strain the cocktail into the glass over a large ice cube or neat if preferred.
- Garnish:Express the oils of an orange peel over the drink by holding it over the glass and giving it a quick flame with a lighter. Rub the peel around the rim, then drop it in.
Video
Notes
- Choosing the Mezcal: Go for “Espadín” for smoky balance, or “Tobalá” for a floral, complex profile.
- Vermouth Quality: A top-tier vermouth like Carpano Antica or Cocchi elevates the drink.
- Flaming Safely: Keep the flame brief and away from flammable surroundings.
- Batch Version: Scale up proportions and store in a chilled pitcher for gatherings. Serve over fresh ice.
Serving Ideas
How you present a cocktail can elevate the entire drinking experience, especially with a bold and aromatic drink like the Smoky Mezcal Negroni.
It doesn’t matter if you’re hosting guests or simply treating yourself, these serving ideas bring a touch of drama, sophistication, and sensory depth that complement the cocktail’s smoky and citrusy profile.
Charred Citrus Presentation
Serve the cocktail over a large ice cube in a heavy-bottomed rocks glass. Garnish with a charred blood orange wheel:
- Lightly sear a slice of blood orange with a kitchen torch or grill it for 1–2 minutes.
- Float it on top or lean it against the ice.
- The char brings out the smoky notes of the mezcal and looks dramatic and rustic.
Miniature Smoked Glass Dome Reveal
View this post on Instagram
For a show stopping presentation:
- Place the finished cocktail in a coupe glass.
- Use a smoking gun or smoldering wood chips to fill a small glass dome with smoke.
- Cover the glass, then remove the dome tableside for a smoky aroma burst.
- Perfect for dinner parties or cocktail hours with flair.
Summary
Enjoying a Smoky Mezcal Negroni with a citrus twist offers a bold shift from traditional cocktails, blending smoke, bitterness, and brightness in perfect harmony.
Each sip brings forward the earthy depth of mezcal, balanced by vibrant citrus and sweet vermouth.
Serve it with intention, and it becomes more than a drink, it becomes an experience shared, savored, and remembered. Invite conversation, set the mood, and let the glass speak for itself.