Negroni Latino
A smoky twist on the Negroni, where tequila and mezcal bring agave and smoke to the bittersweet classic.
Ingredients
- Reposado tequila20 ml
- Mezcal10 ml
- Campari22 ml
- Sweet vermouth30 ml
- Orange, to garnish (optional)1 strip
Method
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add the tequila, mezcal, sweet vermouth and Campari.
- Stir calmly for about 30 seconds, until the drink is ice-cold and lightly diluted.
- Strain into a rocks glass over one large ice cube.
- Twist a strip of orange peel over the glass to release its aromatic oils, and drop the peel into the drink.
About this drink
The Negroni Latino is the Mexican cousin of the Italian Negroni, with gin swapped for tequila and mezcal. It keeps the original's bittersweet balance but adds an earthy, gently smoky depth from the agave spirits. The drink is popular in modern cocktail bars that like to play with classic formulas and new ingredients.
Questions and answers
What is a Negroni Latino?
A Negroni in which tequila and mezcal replace the gin. The same bittersweet structure from Campari and vermouth, just with agave and a hint of smoke instead of juniper.
Does a Negroni Latino need mezcal?
Strictly speaking, no, but you lose the smoky depth the mezcal adds. The small amount of mezcal in the recipe makes a noticeable difference without taking over.
