The Rosita Cocktail Is the Smoky Negroni Alternative You Need to Try

The Rosita Cocktail Is the Smoky Negroni Alternative You Need to Try

Everything You Need to Know About The Rosita

The Rosita is a sophisticated, complex cocktail that bridges the gap between a tequila cocktail and classic bitter-sweet stirred drinks like the Negroni and the Boulevardier. First published in Mr. Boston’s Official Bartender’s Guide in 1988 (and popularized by cocktail legend Gary Regan), the Rosita pairs aged tequila with the herbal complexity of both sweet and dry vermouths, anchored by the sharp punch of Campari and bitters. Rich, earthen, and pleasantly bitter, it is an ideal nightcap or aperitivo for agave lovers.

Rosita

Prep Time3 min
Yield1 Cocktail
Base SpiritTequila

Ingredients

  • 1.5 oz Reposado Tequila
  • 0.5 oz Campari
  • 0.5 oz Sweet Vermouth
  • 0.5 oz Dry Vermouth
  • 1 dash Aromatic Bitters
  • Lemon or Grapefruit Twist, for garnish
The Rosita Cocktail Is the Smoky Negroni Alternative You Need to Try

Instructions

  1. Combine tequila, Campari, vermouth, and bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice.
  2. Stir for 20–30 seconds until well-chilled and properly diluted.
  3. Strain into a chilled rocks glass over a single large ice cube.
  4. Garnish by expressing the oils of a lemon or grapefruit twist over the top and dropping it into the glass.
Pro Tip
For the best Rosita, choose a high-quality tequila with balance the bitter herbs of the Campari. Always keep your sweet and dry vermouths refrigerated after opening to ensure maximum freshness.