Mezcal Negroni Recipe

A mezcal Negroni is an easy variation on the classic. Mezcal adds a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with Campari and sweet vermouth.

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There's nothing I love more than putting a twist on a classic. A mezcal Negroni does just that by swapping the gin for mezcal!

The smoky flavor of mezcal offers the perfect balance to the bitter notes of the Campari and the sweetness of the vermouth.

This is an easy 3-ingredient cocktail that has deceptively complex flavor. It's perfect for sipping at happy hour or any festive occasion. I'll show you how to make it!

Jump to:

• Try a Mezcal Negroni when you want to change up your same old cocktail order!
• What does a mezcal Negroni taste like?
• Ingredients you'll need
• How to make a mezcal negroni
• When to serve a mezcal negroni
• More Negroni variations
• Recipe

Try a Mezcal Negroni when you want to change up your same old cocktail order!

• Swapping the gin for mezcal opens up a whole new world of flavors!
• Still a classic apértif cocktail, with bittersweet flavors that get your tastebuds going.
• Pairs well with everything from a skillet steak dinner to a vegetarian eggplant lasagna.

What does a mezcal Negroni taste like?

It's a perfect blend of smoky, bitter, and sweet. If you like the taste of a classic Negroni, you'll find that the smokiness of the mezcal replaces the more floral quality of the gin.

Ingredients you'll need

• Mezcal: Don't be afraid of mezcal! It's just a type of tequila that's made by roasting the agave to give it a smoky flavor. There are SO many mezcals with a wide variety of flavor profiles. Del Maguey is a brand that is widely available in many liquor stores. But mezcal tends to be made by smaller producers, so ask your local purveyors about their favorites and try different ones to see what you like!
• Sweet Vermouth: Vermouth is the bridge between the smoky mezcal and the bitter Campari. My favorite brands are Dolin and Noilly Prat.
• Campari: There is no substitute for this bitter, brightly colored Italian aperitif!
• Orange slices: To garnish.

How to make a mezcal negroni

Step 1: Mix and chill

In a cocktail shaker, pour the mezcal, Campari, and sweet vermouth over ice and stir until well-chilled.

Step 2: Strain, garnish and serve!

Strain over ice into rocks glasses. Garnish with a slice of orange and serve.

When to serve a mezcal negroni

I love a mezcal negroni any time, but here are a few suggestions.

• Great for sipping at happy hour, or before a meal.
• Drink one instead of a margarita with Mexican food and on Cinco de Mayo!
• The smokiness of the mezcal makes it a great choice during the fall and winter.

More Negroni variations

Negronis of all types are so easy to make because the recipe is just equal parts of all three liquors.

• Negroni: Don't argue with the classic!
• A Blood Orange Negroni offers a fun twist by adding blood orange juice.
• Boulevardier: This variation swaps the gin for bourbon, perfect for sipping fireside.
• Try a Rosita Cocktail which uses reposado tequila and adds a bit of white vermouth.

Recipe