Barley Free Classic Mezcal Negroni
Smoky, bitter, and just a little mysterious, this mezcal riff on a classic aperitivo cocktail is the kind of drink that makes a regular Tuesday feel like an occasion. The mezcal brings an earthy, campfire depth that plays beautifully against the bittersweet punch of Campari and the rich, herbal sweetness of vermouth. Grain-based spirits can be a real minefield for anyone avoiding barley, but mezcal is distilled from agave — completely unrelated to any grain — making it a naturally safe and delicious base. Campari and sweet vermouth round out the trio, and none of these bottles have any business being near a barley ingredient, so you can sip with confidence. The technique matters here: a proper 20-to-25-second stir chills and dilutes the drink to silky perfection without watering it down too fast. That final twist of orange peel isn't just pretty — expressing the oils over the glass adds a bright, citrusy lift that ties the whole thing together. Three ingredients, one gorgeous cocktail, zero compromise.
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Learn more →Ingredients
1 serving
- 1 oz mezcal (joven or reposado)
- 1 oz campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 large ice cube or several standard ice cubes, for stirring and serving
For serving
- 1 wide orange peel strip, for garnish
Instructions
- 1
Fill a mixing glass two-thirds full with ice. Add the mezcal, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
- 2
Stir with a bar spoon for 20–25 seconds, until the outside of the mixing glass feels thoroughly chilled and the liquid is well-diluted.
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