Mezcal Negroni
Stir ∙ 3 min ∙ 22.7% ABV ∙
The Mezcal Negroni is a Negroni with mezcal in place of gin: equal parts mezcal, red bitter and rosso vermouth, stirred over ice.
Ingredients
1
Servings
Garnish
Instructions for 1 serving
- Pre-chill a glass
- Pour all ingredients into the ice-filled glass: Mezcal 30 mlRed bitter 30 mlRosso vermouth 30 ml
- Stir
- Express an orange twist over the cocktail and use as garnish (and/or garnish with an olive)
Tips
- Stir in the glass until the outside frosts; that waters the drink down enough without dulling the smoke.
- Pick a joven (unaged) mezcal; its smoke stays clean instead of muddying the red bitter and vermouth.
History
By the account of one cocktail publication, no one recalls precisely who mixed the first Mezcal Negroni. Candidates include Misty Kalkofen, an early advocate for mezcal in American bars, and Phil Ward, who opened the influential agave-focused bar Mayahuel in New York in 2009 and served the swap there in its early days without claiming to have invented it. Rather than tracing to one inventor, the drink spread organically as American bartenders in the 2000s and 2010s began substituting mezcal for gin in the classic Negroni formula, drawn to the smoky edge it gave the bittersweet template.
FAQ
What is a Negroni with mezcal called?
A Mezcal Negroni: the classic Negroni with mezcal in place of gin, alongside equal parts red bitter and rosso vermouth.
Is a Negroni with mezcal good?
Yes. Mezcal's smoke suits the bitter orange and herbal notes already in a Negroni, which is why the swap is popular with bartenders. It is just as strong and spirit-forward as the original, about 22.7% ABV, with a drier, more savory finish.
What is the best mezcal for a Mezcal Negroni?
A joven (unaged) mezcal, whose smoke and agave come through clearly. An aged reposado or añejo makes a softer, less smoky drink.
What is the best vermouth for a Mezcal Negroni?
A classic Italian rosso (sweet) vermouth. Its herbal sweetness softens the mezcal's smoke, just as it does the gin in a standard Negroni. Use it in equal parts with the mezcal and red bitter.
