We’re giving the classic Negroni a bold new twist with mezcal, and it might just become your new favorite. If you’ve been looking for a mezcal negroni cocktail recipe that’s simple, flavorful, and a little unexpected, you’re in the right place. The original Negroni was born in early 1900s Florence when Count Camillo Negroni asked for a stronger version of his Americano. That request led to a mix of gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, and it quickly became a classic.
What You'll Need to Make a Mezcal Negroni
Let’s break down everything we use to make a great Mezcal Negroni. From the spirits to the tools, each part plays a role in how the drink turns out. When we choose the right ingredients and keep things simple behind the bar, the whole process feels easy and enjoyable.
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Mezcal – We usually go with joven mezcal for its clean, smoky flavor that doesn’t overpower the drink. If we’re in the mood for something bolder, reposado adds more depth. Our favorites are Montelobos and Del Maguey because they bring great flavor without stretching the budget.
- Campari – This gives the drink its classic bitter bite. Want to switch things up? Gran Classico offers a softer flavor, Cynar adds a herbal twist, and Leopold Bros Aperitivo brings something a little different.
- Sweet Vermouth – This ties everything together. Carpano Antica brings bold richness, Cocchi di Torino has a fruitier, lighter profile, and Dolin keeps it crisp and clean. Taste matters here, so don’t be afraid to try a few.
- Orange Twist – It’s not just a garnish. It adds brightness and balance to the drink. We twist the peel over the glass to release the oils. If you want to add a little flair, warm the peel near a flame for a quick burst of citrus aroma.
You might also like: 18 Best Vermouth Cocktails
Equipment You’ll Need
You don’t need a fancy setup to make a great Mezcal Negroni. Just a few basics will do the trick.
- Mixing glass
- Bar spoon
- Strainer
- Rocks glass or coupe glass
- Jigger
- Peeler or small knife
If you’re just starting to build your home bar, we’ve put together a quick guide to the essential bar tools that covers everything you need.
How to Make a Mezcal Negroni Cocktail
Making a Mezcal Negroni is easy, and that’s part of what makes it such a go-to for us. We stick with equal parts mezcal, Campari, and sweet vermouth. No need to complicate it.
We stir everything over ice in a mixing glass for about 30 seconds. Stirring keeps the texture smooth and blends the flavors without adding bubbles. Once it’s well chilled, we strain it into a glass over fresh ice.
When it comes to glassware, we usually reach for a classic rocks glass. But if we’re in the mood for something a little more stylish, we love using the Whiskey Wobble rotating glass. It adds a bit of flair and makes the experience feel more special.
To finish it off, we grab a strip of orange peel, hold it over the drink, and give it a firm twist so the oils hit the surface. Then we drop it in as a garnish for a fresh, citrusy touch.
If you ever want to check the measurements or follow along, you’ll find the full recipe in the card below.
Tips and Tricks to Make the Best Mezcal Negroni Cocktail
- Use fresh, chilled vermouth – We always keep our vermouth in the fridge. Warm or old vermouth can throw off the drink, so keeping it cold helps everything taste crisp and balanced.
- Pick the right mezcal – We like something rich and smooth, but not too smoky unless we’re going for a bold kick. Montelobos and Alipus are two of our favorite bottles that work well in this cocktail.
- Flame the orange peel for extra aroma – Want to level it up? Warm the peel near a lighter and squeeze it over the drink. This releases a burst of citrus oil and gives the cocktail a fragrant finish.
- Adjust the ratios to your taste – Everyone has a different idea of what makes the perfect Negroni. Try a few of these ratios and see what hits just right:
- Classic – 1 mezcal, 1 vermouth, 1 Campari
- Stronger – 1.5 mezcal, 1 vermouth, 1 Campari
- Smoother – 1 mezcal, 1.5 vermouth, 1 Campari
Mezcal Negroni Variations to Try
One of the best parts about mixing drinks at home is experimenting with new flavors. Here are a few of our favorite ways to change up the classic Mezcal Negroni:
- Spicy Mezcal Negroni – We add a dash of chili tincture just before serving. It gives the drink a smoky, spicy kick that pairs perfectly with mezcal’s bold flavor.
- Blanco Tequila Negroni – Swapping mezcal for blanco tequila makes the drink lighter and more citrusy. It’s crisp, clean, and a great option when we want something a little brighter.
- White Negroni with Mezcal – Instead of Campari, we use Suze or another gentian liqueur. This version has a bittersweet edge and a golden hue that feels extra refreshing. It’s one of our favorite picks for summer.
- Aged Mezcal Negroni – Using reposado mezcal adds soft oak notes and a hint of vanilla. It smooths out the drink and brings a rich, slightly sweeter finish.
Trying new combinations like these keeps our mezcal negronis exciting and always a little unexpected.
Related: What’s the Difference Between Tequila and Mezcal?
Love Mezcal? Try These Next
If you’re into bold flavor like we are, mezcal has way more to offer beyond the Negroni. Here are a few of our favorite mezcal cocktails that keep things fresh, smoky, and seriously fun to make.
- Mezcal Margarita – We swap in mezcal for tequila to give this classic a smoky twist that still feels familiar.
- Oaxaca Old Fashioned – This one blends mezcal with reposado tequila for a smooth, spicy upgrade to the original.
- Mezcal Paloma – Tart grapefruit juice and mezcal come together for a bright, refreshing cocktail that’s perfect on a warm day.
- Naked & Famous – A balanced mix of mezcal, Aperol, and yellow Chartreuse that’s colorful, bold, and surprisingly easy to sip.
- Mezcal Sour – Lime juice and egg white give this one a tangy kick and a creamy, frothy texture we can’t get enough of.
If you’re ready to explore more, these cocktails are a great place to start. Mezcal has a way of turning simple drinks into something unforgettable, and there’s always room to find a new favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
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