History & Heritage
“The Mezcal Boulevardier is a modern adaptation of the classic Boulevardier, which was created in the 1920s. This version emerged from the craft cocktail renaissance of the early 21st century, as bartenders began substituting the original's bourbon with the smoky, complex character of mezcal. It has become a modern classic in its own right, celebrated for its layered and enigmatic flavor profile.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a rocks glass.
In a mixing glass filled with ice, add the mezcal, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
Stir for 20-30 seconds until well-chilled.
Place a large ice cube in the chilled rocks glass.
Strain the contents of the mixing glass over the ice cube.
Garnish with an expressed orange peel.
Glassware
Served in a double old-fashioned or rocks glass
Garnish
Expressed over the drink
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
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Sour
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Bitter
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Strong
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Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
The 1.5:1:1 ratio gives the mezcal the prominence it deserves, allowing its smoky character to shine.
Stirring, not shaking, is essential to maintain the silky texture of this spirit-forward cocktail.
Use a high-quality sweet vermouth, like Carpano Antica Formula, to complement the smoky mezcal and bitter Campari.
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Mezcal Boulevardier.
Boulevardier
The original, made with bourbon instead of mezcal.
Changes
Oaxacan Negroni
While often used interchangeably with the Mezcal Boulevardier, some argue that a 'true' Oaxacan Negroni uses tequila as the base spirit, with mezcal acting as a smoky modifier.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Mezcal Negroni
A 1:1:1 riff where earthy mezcal stands in for gin, giving the Italian aperitivo a sultry, agave-smoked backbone.
Mezcal Coffee Negroni
A modern classic that exemplifies the craft cocktail renaissance, brilliantly fusing the smoky, earthy notes of Mexican mezcal with the rich, roasted bitterness of coffee.
Mezcal Sbagliato
A smoky evolution of the Negroni Sbagliato, where mezcal's earthy complexity meets the bittersweet effervescence of Campari, sweet vermouth, and prosecco.