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Smoky Mezcal Negroni Recipe with Fresh Citrus Twist

Recipe for Smoky Mezcal Negroni

A smoky spin on the classic Negroni, this cocktail combines mezcal’s bold depth with a zesty citrus kick. Perfect for an aperitivo hour or an evening wind-down, it pairs beautifully with salty snacks, citrus-marinated olives, or a charcuterie board.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Servings: 1 Cocktail
Course: Beverage, Cocktail
Cuisine: Italian, Mexican
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

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

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)

Method
 

  1. Chill the Glass:
    Place your rocks or coupe glass in the freezer or fill with ice water while preparing the drink.
  2. Mix Ingredients:
    In a mixing glass or shaker, combine mezcal, sweet vermouth, Campari, and freshly squeezed orange juice.
  3. Add Ice and Stir:
    Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds until well-chilled and slightly diluted.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.