Tequila Negroni

The Tequila Negroni, a delightful twist on the classic Negroni, brings together the bold flavors of tequila, the bitter complexity of Campari, and the sweetness of vermouth in a harmonious blend. A cousin to the original Negroni, this cocktail offers a unique experience for those who appreciate the depth of flavors in their drinks.

The Tequila Negroni isn’t just a drink; it’s a celebration of balance and creativity in mixology. Its rising popularity reflects the evolving tastes of cocktail enthusiasts, seeking new and exciting flavor combinations. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or an adventurous spirit looking to expand your palate, the Tequila Negroni invites you to embark on a journey of taste, where bitterness meets sweetness and complexity merges with simplicity.

History

The Tequila Negroni is a fiery twist on the classic Negroni cocktail, which traces its origins back to 20th-century Italy. The Negroni is traditionally made with equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, but the Tequila Negroni replaces gin with tequila, a Mexican liquor made from the agave plant.

The exact origin of the Negroni is unclear, but one popular story is that it was created in 1919 when Count Camillo Negroni asked his bartender at the Caffè Casoni in Florence to make him a stronger version of his favorite cocktail, the Americano. The bartender replaced the soda water in the Americano with gin, and the Negroni was born.

The Tequila Negroni is a more recent invention, likely created by a bartender in New York City who wanted to put a Mexican spin on the classic cocktail. The Tequila Negroni is made with tequila, Campari, and sweet vermouth, just like the classic Negroni, but the tequila gives it a smoky, spicy flavor that sets it apart.

How to Make It

Variations

If you’re a fan of the classic Negroni but want to mix things up a bit, there are plenty of variations to try.

Mezcal Negroni

For a more complex flavor, use mezcal instead of gin. The smokiness of the mezcal adds a unique depth to the drink that’s sure to impress. 

Spicy Tequila Negroni

If you’re in the mood for something spicy, the Spicy Tequila Negroni is a great option. This variation adds a kick of heat with the addition of jalapeño slices.

Boulevardier 

If you’re looking for a Negroni variation that’s a little less bitter, the Boulevardier is a good choice. This cocktail swaps Campari for sweet vermouth, resulting in a smoother, more mellow flavor. Another option is the Rosita cocktail, which uses both sweet and dry vermouth along with Campari and tequila.

Rosita cocktail 

A Rosita cocktail is a tequila-based cocktail that is similar to a Negroni. It is made with reposado tequila, sweet vermouth, Campari, and a dash of Angostura bitters. The cocktail is stirred with ice and strained into a chilled glass. A twist of orange peel is added as a garnish.