Mezcal Or Smokey ' Negroni Recipe

Measure & Combine

Add 1 oz mezcal, 1 oz sweet vermouth, 1 oz Campari, 0.25 oz pure maple syrup, 2 dashes Angostura bitters and 1 dash orange bitters into a mixing glass.

Stir & Chill

Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir briskly with a bar spoon for 20–30 seconds until well chilled and slightly diluted (about 15–25% dilution depending on ice). This smooths the maple and melds the smokiness with the bitter-sweet elements.

Prepare Glass

Place a large ice cube in an old fashioned glass. If you prefer a more diluted chilled drink, use several smaller cubes and chill glass briefly before pouring.

Strain

Strain the chilled cocktail into the prepared glass over the large ice cube using a julep or hawthorne strainer.

Express Orange Peel

Take an orange peel and hold it over the glass, skin side down. Give it a firm squeeze to express the oils over the drink, then rub the peel around the rim and drop it into the glass as garnish.

Optional Smoke

For a smoky aromatics boost, place a small pinch of smoked cinnamon or a few maple wood chips in a heatproof spoon or smoking box and ignite briefly, or use a torch to char slightly. Cover the glass with a cloche or inverted mixing glass to trap smoke for 10–20 seconds, then remove. Alternatively, use a smoking gun to fill the glass with smoke before seating the cocktail inside and uncovering at the table for a dramatic reveal. Ensure proper ventilation and safety when using open flame or smoke.

Final Touch

Give the drink a gentle stir (1–2 turns) to integrate aromatics, serve immediately and enjoy.

Rinse and dry your mixing glass, bar spoon, and strainer after use. If you used a torch or smoking device, allow it to cool fully before storing.