Get ready to elevate your cocktail game with a drink that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor: the Mezcalum Negroni! Here at Mezcalum, we’re all about celebrating authentic traditions and bringing you the purest taste of Oaxaca, and this recipe is no exception. We’ve taken a beloved classic and given it a smoky, irresistible twist that’s sure to become your new favorite.

What's the Story Behind the Negroni?

The Negroni is a cocktail with a legendary past, rumored to have been invented in Florence, Italy, in 1919. The story goes that Count Camillo Negroni asked his bartender to strengthen his favorite Americano cocktail by replacing the soda water with gin. The bartender, Fosco Scarselli, added an orange peel as a garnish instead of the typical lemon slice, and thus, a star was born! This iconic drink, with its perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and botanical notes, quickly gained popularity and has remained a staple in cocktail bars worldwide.

What Makes the Mezcalum Negroni Unique?

While the classic Negroni is undeniably delicious, our Mezcalum Negroni takes it to a whole new level. What makes this version stand out from the crowd? It all comes down to the star of the show: our exceptional Mezcalum.

Instead of gin, we've infused this timeless recipe with the soulful, smoky character of Mezcalum. Our mezcal, crafted in Oaxaca, Mexico, from a carefully curated selection of Espadin and rare Cuishe agave, brings a depth and complexity that’s simply unparalleled. Imagine the classic bitter-sweet dance of Campari and vermouth, now intertwined with the subtle whispers of roasted agave, earthy undertones, and a hint of a sweet, lingering smoke. It's a revelation for your taste buds!

Mezcalum is not just any mezcal. It’s a testament to generations of ancestral wisdom, with our Maestro Mezcalero, Carlos Méndez Blas, meticulously selecting and harvesting agave hearts at their peak. These hearts are then roasted, fermented, and distilled using artisanal methods practiced by his family for nearly a century in their palenques in Santiago de Matatlán. The result? A mezcal that’s Zero Carbs, Zero Sugar, Zero Additives, Non-GMO, Vegan, and All-Natural. It’s this commitment to authenticity and purity that makes our Mezcalum Negroni a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

FAQ:

Q: What kind of sweet vermouth should I use?

For a Mezcalum Negroni, a good quality sweet vermouth is essential. Brands like Carpano Antica Formula, Cocchi Storico Vermouth di Torino, or Dolin Rouge are excellent choices that will complement the smoky notes of Mezcalum beautifully.

Q: Can I make a batch of Mezcalum Negronis ahead of time?

Absolutely! The Negroni is a fantastic cocktail for batching. Simply scale up the recipe, combine all ingredients in a sealed container, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, pour over ice and garnish.

Q: What's the best way to express the oils from an orange peel?

To express the oils, hold an orange peel (cut from a fresh orange) over the drink with the colorful side facing down. Gently twist or squeeze the peel between your thumb and forefinger. You'll see a fine mist of aromatic oils spray over the surface of the drink, adding a wonderful citrusy aroma and flavor.

Q: Why use a large ice cube?

A large ice cube melts slower than smaller ice cubes, which means your Mezcalum Negroni will stay perfectly chilled and undiluted for longer, allowing you to savor every sip.