Here’s an interesting one that’s perfect for the holidays and cold weather, but it’s not the typical brown, whiskey-based drink. It’s billed by Tuxedo No 2 (tuxedono2.com), a favorite go-to place for all things cocktail, as a tequila-based variation on an evergreen classic, the Negroni.
Maybe so, but somehow the agave and Chartreuse take the mixture into an entirely different zone. Slippery, spicy, and yet very soothing, it becomes a whole new thing. And the Christmas-red color is enticing and lovey.
As a rule, I’m sorta meh about tequila, but I love mezcal – also made in Mexico from agave, but with a much richer flavor and bit of smoke on the back end. So, I always try tequila recipes with both. Which is what I recommend you do here. I liked the tequila version, I loved the mezcal version. Your choice.
Re, the Yellow Chartreuse, if you see a bottle, it will not be cheap, but grab it anyway, and pay whatever they are asking. The French monks who make Chartreuse – both green and yellow – have declined to increase production while demand has continued to increase. Both colors are getting harder and harder to find. This drink requires Yellow Chartreuse, so if you don’t have a bottle on hand, keep an eye peeled, and/or ask your favorite liquor merchant to alert you when some comes in.
Telekinesis
1.5 ounces tequila or (even better) mezcal
.5 ounce Campari
.5 ounce sweet vermouth
.5 ounce Yellow Chartreuse
Combine, stir or shake to get icy cold, and serve straight up.