The Oaxacan Negroni is a twist on the classic Negroni, showing off the bold, earthy flavours of mezcal against the bittersweet backdrop of Campari and the rich sweetness of 1757 Vermouth di Torino Rosso. This variation has its origin story in the vibrant region of Oaxaca, Mexico, where mezcal is a cultural staple. The Oaxacan Negroni recipe adds a dash of delightful swagger to the OG ingredient line-up, making it feel both familiar and daringly fresh.
INSTRUCTIONS
01
1.
Add all the ingredients to a mixing glass with ice, and stir well for at least 30 seconds
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2.
Strain into a chilled rocks glass with ice
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3.
Garnish with a grapefruit twist and serve
Why use mezcal in an Oaxacan Negroni?
Mezcal is the heart and soul of the Oaxacan Negroni. Unlike tequila, which is typically more refined, mezcal is known for the bold flavour that comes from agave hearts that are roasted in underground pits.
This earthiness adds depth and a distinct character to the Negroni, making it a standout choice for those looking to explore something beyond the traditional gin-based version. The earthy undertones of mezcal pair beautifully with the bittersweet vibe of Campari, setting the scene for a clinker that’s both complex and satisfying.
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Oaxacan Negroni vs Classic Negroni
When it comes to flavour, this Negroni variation stands apart from the original. The swap from gin to mezcal changes everything, creating two distinct personalities in the glass:
- Classic Negroni → gin brings bright, botanical notes, lifted by citrussy zest and crisp juniper.
- Oaxacan Negroni → mezcal adds earthy, smoky depth, giving the drink a bold, grounded edge.
Both builds share Campari’s bittersweet bite and the smooth richness of vermouth, but the Latin-inspired version leans into the world of mezcal cocktails, making it a standout choice for adventurous cocktail lovers. Curious to try the original too? Check out our Negroni recipe.
Read next: Negroni Variations to Try at Home
Best mezcal for an Oaxacan Negroni?
When choosing a mezcal for your Oaxacan Negroni, Montelobos Mezcal Espadín is a top choice. Crafted using traditional methods, it’s made from 100% organically grown Espadín agave.
It comes to the party with a balanced profile featuring a rich smoky vibe, a hint of sweetness, and a peppery finish, blending seamlessly with Campari and sweet vermouth. This mezcal adds a depth of flavour that’s essential for an authentic Oaxacan Negroni experience.
Learn more: The Difference Between Mezcal and Tequila
Serving suggestions for an Oaxacan Negroni
To serve your mezcal Negroni, start by chilling your glass to ensure the drink stays cool from start to finish. A traditional rocks glass works best, allowing the drink to be sipped slowly and savoured.
Fill the glass with large ice cubes, which melt slowly, and help maintain the balance of flavours without diluting the drink too quickly.
The classic garnish for an Oaxacan Negroni is a grapefruit twist, which adds a fresh, zesty aroma that complements the deeply flavourful mezcal. But why not get creative with your garnishes?
Consider using an orange twist for a sweeter citrus touch or a sprig of rosemary to bring out the earthy, herbal notes in the drink. For an added layer of complexity, try rimming the glass with a mix of salt and chilli powder—a tip of the hat to the epic flavours of Oaxaca.
Pairing food with an Oaxacan Negroni
The Oaxacan Negroni’s bold flavours make it an excellent companion for a variety of dishes. Its unusual, bittersweet profile pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, especially those with a bit of smoky crispness. Think carne asada or grilled lamb chops.
For lighter bites, consider pairing it with spicy ceviche, where the mezcal’s earthiness contrasts beautifully with the fresh, tangy flavours of the dish. Cheese lovers will enjoy how the drink complements strong, aged cheeses like Manchego or a smoky Gouda, enhancing both the drink and the food’s rich, complex flavours.
Love the Oaxacan Negroni? Try these!
Don’t stop at the Oaxacan Negroni! Check out these sips next:
White Negroni: Crisp, herbal, and a little edgy, it’s the elegant cousin of the classic.
Negroni Sbagliato: Bubbly and bittersweet, with an effortlessly cool, party-ready vibe.
Boulevardier: Smooth, rich, and warming—perfect for slow sipping.
Sazerac: Bold, aromatic, and old-school classy with a touch of New Orleans swagger.
Mezcal Margarita: Smoky, punchy, and fun, bringing that fiesta energy every time.
Ready, set, ariba, besties! Visit the Montelobos and Campari websites to stock up on mezcal Negroni essentials and remember to sign up for our gorgeous newsletter to stay in the mix.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
It's a Negroni variation that swaps gin for mezcal, adding smoky, earthy depth to Campari’s bittersweet bite and vermouth’s smooth sweetness. It’s a bold twist on the classic and a standout in the world of mezcal cocktails.
Yes, but it won’t taste the same. Tequila is cleaner and more refined, while mezcal delivers the signature smoky, earthy character that makes the Oaxacan Negroni unique.
While you can technically use any mezcal for an Oaxacan Negroni, choosing a quality mezcal like Montelobos Espadín will elevate the cocktail. A well-crafted mezcal will have balanced earthiness and nuanced flavours that complement the Campari and vermouth.
The primary difference is the base spirit. The classic Negroni uses gin, which creates a botanical, juniper-forward flavour. In contrast, the Oaxacan Negroni swaps gin for mezcal, introducing an earthy character. This substitution transforms the drink, making it bolder and more complex.
