Our dapper Tequila Negroni recipe offers a playful twist on the classic Negroni cocktail. While the traditional Italian clinker is made with a balanced blend of gin, vermouth, and Campari, we’ve swapped the gin for tequila to shimmy it into a compelling new direction.
Tequila Negroni recipe
PREP TIME 5 min
INSTRUCTIONS
01
Add all the ingredients to a mixing glass with ice, and stir well for at least 30 seconds
02
Strain into a chilled rocks glass with ice
03
Garnish with a grapefruit twist and serve
History & popularity of the OG Negroni
Before the Tequila Negroni cocktail came onto the scene, the original had long reigned supreme all around the world. The history of the Negroni is very interesting and includes all sorts of Italian twists.
Legend has it that the time-honoured Negroni was created in 1919 in Florence when Count Camillo Negroni asked for a stronger version of an Americano (his favourite cocktail). The bartender replaced the soda water with gin, and just like that one of the world’s most popular aperitivo cocktails was born.
The Tequila Negroni (akin to a Rosita) is a modern variation of this timeless cocktail, and shows off, the versatility of agave spirits when mixed into classic drinks. Today it’s popular in trendy bars and cocktail lounges, especially in spots known for innovative mixology. It’s perfect for celebrating occasions like Mexican Independence Day, Cinco de Mayo, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a bold and flavourful cocktail twist.
The joys of experimenting with different types of tequila
When it comes to choosing the best tequila, you can go in any direction, depending on the flavours you enjoy the most.
- Blanco tequila sets the scene for crisp, bright flavours and zesty citrus notes.
- Reposado tequila will make for a smooth, balanced cocktail with hints of vanilla, caramel, and oak.
- Añejo tequila goes in a more luxurious direction with rich, complex flavours like chocolate, coffee, and toffee, ending in a velvety finish.
Learn more: A Beginner’s Guide to the Different Types of Tequila
Even more Tequila Negroni variations (and fun names!)
If you’re a fan of the Tequila Negroni, we bet you’ll love exploring its many delicious variations, including:
- Negroni Margarita: A playful fusion of a classic Margarita and Negroni, combining tequila with lime juice and a splash of Grand Marnier, then finished off with a splash of Campari and vermouth.
- Reposado Negroni: Uses reposado tequila for a smooth, oak-infused twist, adding subtle vanilla and caramel notes to the traditional blend.
- Añejo Negroni: Incorporates añejo tequila, which brings rich, complex flavours of caramel and spice, creating a luxurious version for special occasions.
Dreaming up creative names for these variations can add a touch of fun. We like:
- Tequiloni: A cheeky nod to the traditional Negroni with a tequila twist.
- Negrita: A playful combo of a Margarita and Negroni.
- Negronisado: Highlights the smoothness of reposado tequila.
- Añejogroni: Made with the rich, luxurious flavours of añejo tequila.
Read next: 8 Must-Try Añejo Tequila Cocktails
More Negroni variations for adventurous home mixologists
If you find yourself tickled by this twist on the classic aperitif, you can also try one (or more!) of the following Negroni variations:
Prefer the classic? 8 Best Gins for Negroni in 2024
Amazing food pairings for a Negroni with tequila
Pairing a Tequila Negroni with the right dishes will really kick things up a notch.
- The bold, earthy and bittersweet notes of the drink go perfectly with spicy dishes like tacos al pastor or grilled shrimp with chilli lime seasoning.
- If you’re feeling snacky, try it with a selection of cured meats and cheeses—think prosciutto and aged gouda, which nicely balance the drink’s bitterness.
- For a citrusy twist, dishes like ceviche or citrus-marinated chicken work wonders.
- And for a sweet ending, dark chocolate with a hint of chilli pairs beautifully with this sensational sipper.
Also see: 14 Best Tequila Mixers (What to Mix with Tequila)
There you have it – a nice concise guide to the Tequila Negroni and everything you need to make this drink a complete showstopper. Sign up for our newsletter to receive fresh inspiration every month and remember to tag us on Instagram when you share your creations online. Keen to go on a deep dive? See the Campari, Cinzano, and Espolòn websites for more…
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Absolutely! A Negroni with tequila, known as a Tequila Negroni, is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail. Simply swap the traditional gin for tequila, keeping the vermouth and Campari. This variation brings a unique, earthy flavour to the mix, making it a great choice for tequila lovers and those looking to try something new. The Tequila Negroni maintains the balanced bitterness of the original while adding a bold twist that’s sure to impress.
Yes, using aged tequila in a Tequila Negroni can add a rich, complex flavour to the cocktail. Aged tequilas, like reposado or añejo, bring notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, which complement the bitterness of the Campari and the sweetness of the vermouth. This choice can make your Tequila Negroni smoother and more nuanced, perfect for sipping and savouring. Experimenting with different types of tequila can help you find the perfect balance for your taste.
Popular garnishes for a Tequila Negroni include an orange twist, which adds a fresh citrus aroma and a touch of bitterness. You can also use a grapefruit twist for a slightly different citrus profile. Another creative option is a slice of jalapeño, which introduces a subtle heat that complements the earthy notes of tequila. A sprig of rosemary can also be a great choice, adding an herbal touch that enhances the cocktail's complexity.
