The Story Behind The Mexicano

The classic Americano cocktail was, perhaps counterintuitively, not created in America. Born in a Milanese bar called Caffe Campari in the 1920s, it was initially called the Milano-Torino. Due to its popularity among American patrons, Caffe Campari eventually rechristened it “the Americano."

My variation is simple, delicious, and takes no time at all. I simply substituted the sweet vermouth with mezcal, and added a little agave syrup for balance. It still has its vibrant red color from the Campari, and mezcal gives it great body and composition.

Ingredients

  • 1 ounce Campari
  • 1 ounce Espadin mezcal
  • ½ ounce agave syrup
  • Soda water float (approx. 2 ounces)

Directions

  1. Pour Campari, mezcal and agave syrup in a Collins glass over ice
  2. Give it a quick stir to combine
  3. Top with soda water
  4. Garnish with an orange twist

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(93 votes)

Yield: 1
Updated: 2020-07-29

This mezcal cocktail is a fresh take on the classic Americano. The Campari is the lead spirit in this drink, and the added mezcal brings a delightful smokiness to the drink.