Nutmeg Free Classic Mezcal Negroni
Smoky, bitter, and bracingly elegant, this mezcal riff on a classic aperitivo cocktail is the kind of drink that makes you slow down and actually savor what's in your glass. The swap from gin to mezcal brings a gorgeous campfire depth that plays beautifully against the bittersweet Campari and the rich, herbal sweetness of vermouth. Every ingredient here is straightforward and naturally free of the warm spice blends that sometimes sneak into flavored spirits or pre-made cocktail mixes — so you can sip without second-guessing the label. The technique matters just as much as the pour: stirring for a full 20 to 25 seconds chills and dilutes the drink to exactly the right balance, silky and cold without being watered down. That final twist of orange peel isn't just for looks — expressing the oils over the surface adds a bright citrus lift that ties the whole thing together. Whether you're mixing for yourself after a long week or playing bartender for friends, this is the kind of cocktail that earns serious compliments with minimal effort.
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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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