White Mezcal Negroni
A modern classic that brilliantly marries the smoky, earthy notes of Mexican mezcal with the floral bitterness of French aperitifs, creating a sophisticated variation on the White Negroni structure.
26%
ABV
medium
Difficulty
rocks
Glass
History & Heritage
“The White Mezcal Negroni is a direct descendant of the White Negroni, invented in 2001 by British bartender Wayne Collins. Collins and Nick Blacknell created the White Negroni at France's Vinexpo trade show, substituting Suze for Campari and Lillet Blanc for sweet vermouth when they couldn't find the traditional ingredients. The drink was later popularized in the US by Audrey Saunders at Pegu Club. The mezcal substitution emerged during the craft cocktail renaissance as bartenders explored agave spirits beyond traditional Mexican cocktails, creating a fusion of Italian cocktail structure with Mexican spirit character.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Add all ingredients to a mixing glass filled with ice
Stir until well-chilled, approximately 20-30 seconds
Strain into a chilled rocks glass over a large, clear ice cube
Garnish with a grapefruit twist, expressing the oils over the drink before dropping it in
Glassware
Served on the rocks in a double old-fashioned glass
Garnish
Express oils over drink before dropping in
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use an Espadín mezcal for balanced smokiness that doesn't overpower
Stir, don't shake - this maintains clarity and proper texture
Pre-chill the glass to maintain optimal temperature
Express grapefruit oils over the surface for aromatic enhancement
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the White Mezcal Negroni.
Mezcal-Forward
More spirit-forward version emphasizing the mezcal
Changes
With Saline
Enhanced flavors with a few drops of saline solution
Changes
Lillet Blanc Version
Using the original White Negroni modifier
Changes
Spicy White Mezcal Negroni
Adding heat to complement the smoky mezcal
Changes
Citrus Brightened
More refreshing version with citrus juice
Changes
More to Explore
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White Negroni
A modern classic that brilliantly reimagines its iconic Italian predecessor through a distinctly French lens, swapping Campari and sweet vermouth for Suze and Lillet Blanc.
1934 Zombie
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