“Smoke & Choke” Negroni
Ingredients
1oz Mezcal Vida Clasico
1oz Cynar
1oz Dolin Vermouth Rouge
4 drops saline solution
*Orange peel
This Negroni riff is an interesting and delicious one for those who have not tried Cynar. This drink name seems a bit misleading because it does not necessarily taste like a Negroni, but it follows the same even 1oz ratios of a Negroni.
Cynar is a spirit that is distilled from artichokes and one of my favorite digestifs. The mix of mezcal (“smoke”) and artichoke liqour (“choke”) is what gives this Negroni its name. Lastly, the sweet red vermouth is what brings it back to the world of the Negroni. I would recommend the regular Cynar and not the 70 proof bottle for this specific drink. The 70 proof can throw off the balance of the drink and feels too forward in the cocktail for myself. You may feel differently, so try it and decide!
I personally enjoy Vida Clasico as the mezcal for this drink. Other notable labels include; Banhez (Espadin & Barril) which is a smoother drink, and El Buho (Espadin) which is smokier than your average mezcal.
Recipe
1. Add the mezcal, cynar, vermouth, and saline solution into a mixing glass.
2. Add 2 large ice cubes and stir till cold.
3. Pour over large ice sphere in rocks glass.
4. Express orange peel over drink and add to glass.