One drink. One bar. One story.

A Negroni that tastes of Oaxaca, in San José del Cabo

At Cardón, the Mezcal Negroni is less a twist than a conversation about agave.

By BARTENDER.MX · October 18, 2026

Demo

Demonstration record: this content is fictional and will be replaced with verified information before launch.

Why it matters

Swapping gin for mezcal looks simple, but espadín's smoke and green notes call for rebalancing the vermouth and bitter. Here, that rebalancing shows.

Who makes it

Mateo Rivas (demonstration profile) builds the list by maguey and producer, and picks the Negroni's mezcal by season.

The build

Equal parts espadín mezcal, Campari and sweet vermouth, stirred over ice and served over a large cube. The bar doesn't share its exact vermouth choice.

Glass, ice & technique

Double rocks glass, a clear 5 cm cube, orange peel expressed over the top.

In the glass

Bitter up front, gentle smoke mid-palate and a long, dry finish. The orange lifts the aroma without adding sweetness.

The hospitality

They ask whether you prefer a smokier or more herbal mezcal before building it.

Is it worth it?

Seek it out

Worth seeking out if you love a Negroni and want to understand mezcal.

Editorial rating

4.3

Balance & flavor5/5
Technical execution4/5
Temperature & dilution5/5
Ingredient quality4/5
Glassware & presentation4/5
Garnish & aroma4/5
Originality3/5
Value for money4/5

Editorial reviews are independent. Sponsored content is always labeled and never influences a rating.

Who makes it: Mateo Rivas

The drink

Mezcal · Stirred

Mezcal Negroni

The Negroni with an Oaxacan accent: mezcal's smoke and agave replace juniper. It is now a fixture in mezcalerías and bars across Mexico.

The bar

MezcaleríaDemo

Cardón

Distrito del Arte, Los Cabos · $$

Demonstration profile. A small mezcalería with an agave spirits list organized by producer, region and maguey.

Ice

Clear Ice and Carving

Directional freezing produces transparent ice blocks that can be carved into spheres, cubes and spears. They look better, melt slower and dilute predictably.

Intermediate · 6 min read

Technical · 6 min read

Balance and Tasting

Sweet, sour, bitter, alcohol and dilution: how to taste a drink like a professional and adjust balance with intent.

Sources

BARTENDER.MX Editorial (demonstration)