Mate Negroni
A South American twist on the classic Negroni—gin infused with yerba mate adds an earthy, herbaceous depth that takes this cocktail to another level.
The Negroni's bitter-sweet balance is a natural match for yerba mate's own bitterness. Infusing the gin with mate adds a grassy, vegetal layer that makes the cocktail feel more complex without adding a single extra ingredient.
Steep the gin with yerba mate for just 30 minutes—mate infuses quickly and going longer pulls too much tannin, making the drink astringent. You'll notice the gin takes on a golden-green tint and a distinctly South American aroma.
The Campari's bitterness now has a partner rather than a solo—mate and Campari create a layered bitter profile that's fascinating on the palate. Sweet vermouth rounds everything out with its spiced, caramelized notes.
For a lighter version, use Aperol instead of Campari. For a zero-proof take, swap gin for a non-alcoholic botanical spirit and Campari for a bitter aperitif alternative—the mate infusion carries enough character to anchor the drink.
Ingredients
- 30 ml gin
- 1 tbsp loose yerba mate
- 30 ml Campari
- 30 ml sweet vermouth
- Orange peel for garnish
- Ice cubes
How to make it
- 1Infuse gin: add yerba mate to gin in a sealed jar for 30 minutes. Strain and discard leaves.
- 2Add mate-infused gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth to a mixing glass with ice.
- 3Stir for 20–30 seconds until well chilled.
- 4Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- 5Express an orange peel over the surface and drop it in as garnish.
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