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.
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.