What Is a Boulevardier?

Think of the Boulevardier as the Negroni’s whiskey-loving cousin. Invented in the 1920s by Erskine Gwynne, an American writer living in Paris, this cocktail was first published in Barflies and Cocktails by Harry McElhone of Harry’s New York Bar. Traditionally made with bourbon, it balances bitter Campari and sweet vermouth for a sophisticated, spirit-forward experience.

Why Use Mezcal Instead of Bourbon?

Enter mezcal—the smoky, complex game-changer. While bourbon adds warmth and caramel notes, Mezcalum Mezcal brings an earthier depth, rich minerality, and a lingering smoky finish. The Espadin and Cuishe agave blend in Mezcalum delivers a uniquely bold backbone that stands up to Campari’s bitterness and vermouth’s herbal sweetness.

What Makes Mezcalum the Perfect Choice?

Crafted in Oaxaca with zero carbs, zero sugar, and no additives, Mezcalum embodies the essence of traditional mezcal-making. The hand-harvested agave is slow-roasted, naturally fermented, and twice distilled by Maestro Mezcalero Carlos Méndez Blas, whose family has been perfecting the process for nearly a century.

This attention to tradition and quality makes Mezcalum the ideal spirit for a Boulevardier—elevating it beyond a simple whiskey swap into an entirely new cocktail experience.

How to Serve a Mezcal Boulevardier

This drink is best enjoyed:

• Neat or on a large ice cube to control dilution.
• In a rocks glass to highlight its complexity.
• With an orange peel garnish, but an orange twist or grapefruit peel can add an extra aromatic layer.

For a modern twist, try barrel-aging the cocktail for a few weeks or experimenting with different vermouths, such as Carpano Antica for added vanilla notes.

Mezcal Boulevardier vs. Negroni: Which One Wins?

While both cocktails use Campari and vermouth, a Negroni is gin-based, offering crisp botanical flavors. A Boulevardier leans richer, originally thanks to bourbon, but with mezcal, it transforms into something altogether smoky, sultry, and bold.

If you love Negronis but want a bit more complexity and warmth, the Mezcal Boulevardier is the perfect next step.

FAQ

Q: Is a Mezcal Boulevardier stronger than a bourbon one?

Yes! Mezcal typically has a higher ABV than bourbon, giving this version a bigger punch and a longer-lasting finish.

Q: Can I use a different mezcal for this cocktail?

Sure, but not all mezcals are created equal. The blend of Espadin and Cuishe in Mezcalum brings a unique depth and smoothness, making it the best choice.

Q: What vermouth works best?

Carpano Antica or Cocchi Vermouth di Torino complement mezcal’s smokiness beautifully. If you like drier versions, try Punt e Mes.

Q: Can I batch this cocktail for a party?

Yes! Pre-mix in a sealed bottle and store in the fridge. Just stir with ice before serving to maintain that silky texture.