We love a good Negroni — it’s bitter, balanced, and oh-so-chic. But sometimes, we’re in the mood for something a little more dramatic. Enter the Smoked Negroni 2.0 — a moody, mezcal-laced remix of the iconic Italian cocktail.
If you’ve ever wanted a smoked Negroni cocktail recipe that brings fire, flair, and flavor, this one’s going to blow your mind (and your taste buds).
Why Smoke? Because We Like a Little Drama
This cocktail isn’t just a drink — it’s an experience. The moment that fragrant curl of smoke wafts from the glass, you know you’re in for something special. It turns the ordinary Negroni into something unforgettable.
Our modern Negroni with smoky flavor is perfect for impressing cocktail lovers or just leveling up your Friday night.
A Mezcal Moment That Changes Everything
We swap the gin for mezcal — giving the Negroni a bold, earthy depth that’s both unexpected and totally addictive. The smoky spirit plays perfectly with the sweet vermouth and bitter Campari.
If you’re searching for a Negroni with mezcal and smoke that still respects the original’s spirit, this is it.
The 2.0 Twist: Classic Roots, Elevated Style
The Smoked Negroni 2.0 stays true to the iconic equal-parts structure — but with upgraded ingredients and a new attitude. We even like adding a touch of barrel-aged vermouth for extra complexity.
This bold Negroni variation with mezcal and vermouth is proof that small tweaks can lead to big flavor.
How to Smoke Your Glass Like a Pro
You don’t need fancy gear — just a fire-safe surface, a sprig of rosemary or wood chips, and a glass. Invert the glass over the smoldering herb or chip to infuse the interior with smoke before pouring in the cocktail.
For a DIY smoked cocktail with rosemary or wood chips, this step adds maximum impact with minimal effort.
Moody Evenings, Meet Your Signature Drink
Whether we’re hosting a dinner party or just vibing with a record on, this drink feels like the perfect companion. It’s cozy, bold, and lingers long after the last sip.
The perfect smoked Negroni for evening sipping is here — and it’s got major main-character energy.
Customize Your Smoke & Spirit
Not a mezcal fan? Try smoked gin, or even a smoky Scotch for a deeper twist. Want to lighten the bitterness? A splash of orange liqueur or blood orange juice works wonders.
This customizable Negroni twist with smoke and citrus gives you room to play without losing the cocktail’s iconic soul.
✨ Tip! 🍊
Don’t skip the orange twist — it brings brightness and aromatics that cut through the richness of the smoke and bitterness.
So if you’re craving something daring, complex, and absolutely unforgettable, the Smoked Negroni 2.0 is calling your name. Bold, balanced, and beautifully dramatic — it’s the cocktail you didn’t know you needed.Ingredients
- 60 ml 2 oz gin
- 60 ml 2 oz barrel-aged Campari (or standard Campari)
- 60 ml 2 oz sweet vermouth
- 4 dashes cacao bitters
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- Ice large cubes or spheres
- Orange peel for garnish
Instructions
Smoke the Rosemary:
- Light a rosemary sprig with a culinary torch or match until smoking. Place it under a glass to capture the smoke while you prepare the cocktail.
Mix the Drink:
- In a mixing glass with ice, combine gin, barrel-aged Campari, sweet vermouth, and cacao bitters. Stir well until chilled.
Serve:
- Strain into two rocks glasses over large ice cubes. Uncover the smoked rosemary glasses, then pour the Negroni in.
Garnish:
- Add a fresh rosemary sprig and a twist of orange peel for aroma and flair.
Notes
- Barrel-aged Campari enhances complexity but can be swapped with regular Campari if unavailable.
- For even more drama, use a smoking gun with wood chips.
- This cocktail is excellent as a pre-dinner drink or paired with dark chocolate or aged cheeses.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Smoked Negroni 2.0
🥃 What is a Smoked Negroni 2.0?
This drink puts a smoky edge on the traditional Negroni by infusing the glass, or ingredients, with wood smoke. It combines the bittersweet blend of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth with an aromatic, campfire-like fragrance for a deeper, more complex flavor.
🔥 How do you add the smoke flavor?
There are a few methods: you can cold-smoke the cocktail in a covered glass, smoke the ice, or use a smoked simple syrup. Each adds the signature smoke aroma without altering the balance of the classic Negroni.
🍊 Does it still taste like a classic Negroni?
Yes—the core profile of gin, Campari, and vermouth remains. The subtle smoke adds an earthy, savory background note while maintaining the drink’s striking red color and crisp bitterness.
🧊 What glassware and ice work best?
Serve the Smoked Negroni in a short, heavy-bottomed rocks glass with a large clear ice cube. The large ice melts slowly—keeping the drink balanced longer—while showcasing the smoke effect inside the glass.
🍸 Can I make this at home easily?
Absolutely! Essential tools include a small handheld smoker or a smoking gun with wood chips. You can also smoke the ice overnight or use a smoked infused simple syrup if you don’t want to invest in tools.
🎁 What food pairs well with a Smoked Negroni?
Savory, rich appetizers complement its bold character. Try it with smoked nuts, charcuterie, strong cheeses, or even grilled mushrooms for a harmonious flavor match.
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