Mezcal Negroni

By Steve Kilcullen Jump to Recipe

A smoky, earthy version of the classic cocktail, the Mezcal Negroni is a fascinating alternative for when you need something a little different.

In the past few years, I’ve discovered some of my very favorite cocktails purely by happenstance. I’m a big James Bond fan… the books, movies, everything, I soak it all up. Especially the cocktails. While most people are aware of the famous phrase “Shaken, not stirred” in reference to 007’s favorite libation, the Vodka Martini, quite a few tipples have crossed the secret agent’s lips, especially in Ian Fleming’s original novels and stories.

In the short story Risico, Bond has dinner with the villain Kristatos. This is the world of espionage and elegant meetings, so 007 orders and enjoys a Negroni. And I remember thinking, I must seek this cocktail out, forgetting of course to do so. Cut to a week or so later, and I’m listening to an episode of Joe Darlington’s Being James Bond podcast. I hear some ice clinking around in a glass, and Joe—who hosts the world’s longest-running James Bond podcast, by the way—mentions he’s enjoying a Negroni. There’s that name again. It’s almost as if the universe is trying to subtly tell me that I need to have this drink. So I run around the corner, grab some gin, Campari and Antica Formula sweet vermouth (the best), then I rush back home, excited to try this deep red elixir.

There were herbaceous notes from the gin, with a full-bodied sweetness supplied by the vermouth, but it was the Campari that won me over, being bitter in a beautifully biting way, making each smooth sip a sweetened, sharp experience. My home bar is never without a bottle of Campari, or Antica Formula now. And if you can’t find Antica at your liquor store, a bottle of Dolin or Cinzano sweet vermouth will get the job done nicely.

And since those ingredients are always on hand for me, it was no trouble at all to whip up a few glasses of tonight’s cocktail, the Mezcal Negroni. Simply swap the gin out for the earthy and smoky spirit, which will give your drink a completely new aura. Still red and intense, but now with a rustic, rich and utterly unique fullness.

I have no doubt in my mind that if offered one, James Bond would’ve devoted an entire inner monologue to the balanced and captivating flavor that comes from sipping on a Mezcal Negroni.

What Is The Best Mezcal To Use In A Mezcal Negroni?

I’ve enjoyed many a cocktail at many a bar, pub and tavern here in Los Angeles, and elsewhere. Whenever I’m sipping on whatever it is I have, I’ll always scan the bottles on the shelf behind the bar to see what spirits they’re using. Sometimes I approve, other times I find myself asking about brands I’m unfamiliar with. When it comes to mezcal, there’s a lot to choose from, and at varying price points, too. One brand always jumps out at me, and it seems to be the go-to for just about every bartender I meet… Del Maguey Vida. An affordable, top-shelf liquor that is specifically crafted for mixing, and one that I keep at home. With hints of fruit, spices and roasted agave, Vida will add to the robust charms of the Campari and sweet vermouth.

WHAT GLASSWARE AND GARNISH ARE USED?

A rocks glass with a clear and large ice cube, garnished with an orange peel, is the proper way to enjoy and imbibe any Negroni you may have.

WHAT IS A GOOD SUBSTITUTE FOR CAMPARI?

Aperol seems to be the best replacement for Campari in cocktails, as it is less intense and bitter, with light orange notes.

Mezcal Negroni Variations

Once I discovered the robust joys of the Negroni, I began to seek out other like-minded cocktails. And it turns out there are quite a few delicious versions to choose from. Twist & Toast has some fantastic recipes you can try out right now, and I’m pretty sure you’ll end up with a new favorite or two after you’ve given them a spin.

• Negroni Sbagliato – Prosecco joins the mix in this bubbly and bitter beverage.
• White Negroni – Lillet Blanc and gentian liqueur make this a lighter-looking drink.
• Tequila Negroni – If the Mezcal Negroni tickled your fancy, then you’ll definitely want to give this one a spin.
• Americano – Campari, sweet vermouth and club soda make for the perfect afternoon treat.