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Mezcal Negroni

A smoky twist on the classic negroni that swaps gin for mezcal, creating a sophisticated cocktail with bold, distinctive flavor. The volcanic character of mezcal cuts through bitter Campari and herbal vermouth for a complex, sip-worthy drink.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Total Time 2 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Mexican-Italian Fusion
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 ounce mezcal 100% agave, unaged or aged varieties both work
  • 1 ounce Campari
  • 1 ounce sweet vermouth preferably Italian style
  • 2 to 3 dashes Angostura bitters
  • Ice large cube or several smaller cubes
  • 1 orange peel for garnish

Equipment

  • Mixing glass or cocktail pitcher
  • Bar spoon for stirring
  • Jigger for measuring
  • Strainer (preferably a Hawthorne strainer)
  • Cocktail glass or coupe glass
  • Citrus peeler or channel knife for garnish

Method
 

  1. Fill a mixing glass or cocktail pitcher with ice cubes, using enough to fill about three-quarters of the glass.
  2. Using a jigger, pour exactly 1 ounce of mezcal into the mixing glass with the ice.
  3. Pour 1 ounce of Campari into the mixing glass and stir gently to combine with the mezcal.
  4. Measure out 1 ounce of sweet vermouth and add it to the glass.
  5. Shake or dash 2 to 3 drops of Angostura bitters directly into the mixing glass.
  6. Using a bar spoon, stir the mixture slowly and deliberately for about 30 to 40 seconds to keep the drink silky smooth and fully integrated.
  7. Using a strainer, pour the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass or rocks glass filled with one large ice cube.
  8. Express the oils from an orange peel over the top of the cocktail by twisting it slightly over the drink, then drop the peel into the glass.

Notes

Pre-chill your glass for 5 minutes in the freezer before pouring for best results. Stir, never shake, to maintain the drink's silky texture. Use a mezcal with at least moderate complexity for the best flavor. Fresh orange peel makes a tangible difference in aroma and flavor.