Mezcal is a smoky spirit that adds depth to many cocktails. It comes from roasted agave hearts and has a unique flavor.
You can find many tasty drinks that use mezcal as a key ingredient.
Mezcal cocktails offer a range of flavors from sweet to spicy. You can try classic drinks with a mezcal twist or new creations made just for this spirit.
There are options for every taste, whether you like fruity, herbal, or bold drinks.
1. Oaxaca Old-Fashioned
The Oaxaca Old-Fashioned is a smoky twist on the classic cocktail. It mixes mezcal with tequila for a unique agave spirit blend.
This drink was created in 2007 by Phil Ward, a New York bartender. It helped introduce many people to mezcal when it was still unfamiliar.
To make one, you’ll need mezcal, tequila, agave nectar, and molé bitters.
Stir these ingredients with ice and garnish with a lime peel.
The Oaxaca Old-Fashioned has a rich, earthy flavor. The mezcal adds smokiness while the tequila brings brightness.
It’s a great way to explore mezcal if you’re new to the spirit.
2. Mezcal Margarita
The Mezcal Margarita is a smoky twist on the classic cocktail. You’ll love this drink if you enjoy bold flavors.
To make it, swap out tequila for mezcal in your usual margarita recipe.
Mix mezcal with fresh lime juice and orange liqueur. Add a touch of agave nectar for sweetness.
Shake the ingredients with ice and strain into a salt-rimmed glass.
This cocktail balances the smokiness of mezcal with bright citrus notes. It’s perfect for sipping on warm evenings or pairing with Mexican cuisine.
Try different mezcal brands to find your favorite flavor profile in this drink.
3. Smoky Paloma
The Smoky Paloma puts a twist on the classic tequila cocktail. It swaps tequila for mezcal, giving the drink a smoky flavor.
To make a Smoky Paloma, you’ll need mezcal, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and sparkling water.
Mix these ingredients in a tall glass with ice.
For extra flair, rim the glass with salt. Some recipes call for chipotle smoked salt to enhance the smoky taste.
You can also add a splash of agave nectar if you prefer it sweeter.
This cocktail is perfect for hot summer days. The smoky mezcal balances nicely with the tart grapefruit and fizzy water.
4. Mezcal Mule
The Mezcal Mule puts a smoky twist on the classic Moscow Mule. This cocktail swaps vodka for mezcal, giving it a unique flavor profile.
To make a Mezcal Mule, you’ll need mezcal, lime juice, and ginger beer.
Mix these ingredients in a copper mug filled with ice.
For extra taste, try muddling cucumber slices with agave nectar before adding the other ingredients.
Some recipes also include chili powder or passion fruit for added complexity.
This refreshing drink combines the smokiness of mezcal with the spicy kick of ginger beer. It’s perfect for those who want to explore new flavors while enjoying a familiar cocktail format.
5. Naked and Famous
The Naked and Famous is a modern mezcal cocktail that balances smoky, citrus, and herbal flavors. It uses equal parts mezcal, yellow Chartreuse, Aperol, and lime juice.
This drink was created by Joaquín Simó at Death & Co in New York City. It’s inspired by the Last Word cocktail but swaps gin for mezcal and green Chartreuse for yellow.
To make a Naked and Famous, combine 3/4 ounce each of mezcal, yellow Chartreuse, Aperol, and fresh lime juice in a shaker with ice.
Shake well and strain into a chilled coupe glass.
The result is a sunset-orange drink with complex flavors. You’ll taste smokiness from the mezcal, sweetness from the Aperol, and herbal notes from the Chartreuse.
6. Mezcal Negroni
The Mezcal Negroni puts a smoky twist on the classic cocktail. It swaps gin for mezcal, keeping the Campari and sweet vermouth.
To make one, mix equal parts mezcal, Campari, and sweet vermouth in a glass with ice.
Stir until chilled, then strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
Garnish with an orange twist to complement the flavors. The mezcal adds earthy, savory notes that balance the bitter Campari and herbal vermouth.
This variation works well because mezcal’s strong character stands up to the other bold ingredients. You’ll get a complex, smoky cocktail that’s perfect for sipping slowly.
7. Smoky Sour
The Smoky Sour puts a twist on the classic whiskey sour by using mezcal. This drink blends the smoky flavors of mezcal with tart citrus and a touch of sweetness.
To make a Smoky Sour, you’ll need mezcal, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and an egg white.
Shake all ingredients with ice, then strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
The result is a smooth, creamy cocktail with a nice balance of smoke and tang. The egg white gives it a silky texture and pretty foam on top.
Try garnishing your Smoky Sour with a lemon wheel or a sprinkle of chili powder for extra flair.
8. Mezcal Corpse Reviver #2
The Mezcal Corpse Reviver #2 is a tasty twist on the classic gin-based cocktail. It swaps gin for smoky mezcal, creating a unique flavor profile.
To make this drink, you’ll need equal parts mezcal, orange liqueur, Lillet Blanc, and lemon juice. A dash of absinthe adds complexity.
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass.
The result is a balanced cocktail with smoky, citrusy, and herbal notes.
This mezcal version adds depth to the original recipe while keeping its refreshing qualities. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy smoky flavors in their drinks.
9. Pineapple Mezcalita
The Pineapple Mezcalita is a tropical twist on the classic margarita. It blends smoky mezcal with sweet pineapple juice for a balanced flavor.
To make this drink, you’ll need mezcal, pineapple juice, lime juice, and agave nectar.
Shake these ingredients with ice and strain into a glass.
For an extra kick, try adding jalapeño slices to the mix. This gives the cocktail a spicy edge that complements the sweet pineapple.
Garnish your Pineapple Mezcalita with a pineapple wedge or cilantro sprig. The result is a refreshing cocktail perfect for warm summer days.
10. El Diablo
El Diablo is a refreshing mezcal cocktail that adds a smoky twist to the classic tequila version. You’ll love its unique blend of flavors.
To make an El Diablo with mezcal, mix it with crème de cassis, lime juice, and ginger beer.
The result is a drink that balances sweetness, tartness, and smoke.
Pour the mezcal into a Collins glass filled with ice. Top it with ginger beer, then slowly add the crème de cassis. It will sink to the bottom, creating a layered effect.
Squeeze a lime wedge over the drink and drop it in. You can garnish with a lime wheel for extra flair.
The El Diablo offers a delightful mix of flavors that will surprise your taste buds.
11. Last of the Oaxacans
The Last of the Oaxacans is a tasty twist on the classic Last Word cocktail. It swaps gin for smoky mezcal, giving it a unique Mexican flair.
To make this drink, you’ll need mezcal, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and fresh lime juice.
Mix equal parts of each ingredient in a shaker with ice.
Shake well for about 20 seconds until the shaker gets frosty. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
For an extra kick, you can add a slice of serrano pepper to the shaker. Garnish with another pepper slice if you like it spicy.
This cocktail balances smoky, herbal, sweet, and tart flavors. It’s a bold drink that showcases mezcal’s complex taste.
12. Mezcal Bloody Mary
The Mezcal Bloody Mary puts a smoky spin on a brunch favorite. You’ll love this bold cocktail that swaps vodka for mezcal.
To make it, mix mezcal with tomato juice, lime juice, and Worcestershire sauce in a shaker with ice. Add a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.
Pour into a tall glass and garnish with celery, olives, or bacon.
The smoky mezcal pairs perfectly with the savory tomato base.
This drink works well for brunch or as a hangover cure. It’s sure to wake up your taste buds with its complex flavors.
13. Spicy Mezcalita
The Spicy Mezcalita adds a fiery kick to your mezcal experience. This cocktail blends smoky mezcal with spicy and sweet flavors for a tasty drink.
To make a Spicy Mezcalita, you’ll need mezcal, lime juice, and agave syrup. The spicy element comes from fresh jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
Rim your glass with chili salt for an extra punch. Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into the prepared glass. Garnish with a lime wheel or jalapeño slice.
This drink is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their cocktails. It’s a great choice for summer parties or any time you want to spice things up.
14. Mezcal Collins
The Mezcal Collins puts a smoky twist on the classic Tom Collins cocktail. You’ll love this refreshing drink on a hot day.
To make it, mix mezcal, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
Strain into a tall glass filled with ice. Top with club soda and stir gently.
Garnish your Mezcal Collins with a lemon wheel or wedge. For extra flair, add a sprig of fresh herbs like mint or rosemary.
This cocktail balances the boldness of mezcal with bright citrus and fizzy bubbles. It’s perfect for sipping by the pool or enjoying at a summer BBQ.
15. Mezcal Manhattan
The Mezcal Manhattan puts a smoky spin on a classic cocktail. You’ll mix mezcal with sweet vermouth and bitters for a unique twist.
This drink keeps the traditional 2:1 ratio of spirit to vermouth. Use 2 ounces of mezcal and 1 ounce of sweet vermouth.
Add a few dashes of bitters to balance the flavors. Angostura works well, but orange bitters can add a nice citrus note.
Stir the ingredients with ice until chilled. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish with a cocktail cherry or an orange twist. The smoky mezcal pairs nicely with the sweet vermouth for a complex sip.
16. Mezcal Espresso Martini
The Mezcal Espresso Martini puts a smoky twist on the classic cocktail. You’ll love this drink if you enjoy both coffee and mezcal flavors.
To make it, mix mezcal, coffee liqueur, fresh espresso, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass.
The result is a smooth, rich drink with a nice balance of sweet and bitter notes. The mezcal adds depth and complexity to the traditional recipe.
This cocktail works great as an after-dinner drink or for a fun pick-me-up at parties. It combines the energizing effects of caffeine with the relaxing qualities of alcohol.
17. The Brave Bull
The Brave Bull is a strong and simple mezcal cocktail. It’s a smoky twist on the classic Black Russian.
To make a Brave Bull, you’ll need mezcal and coffee liqueur. Mix equal parts of each over ice in a glass.
The drink has a rich, smoky flavor from the mezcal. The coffee liqueur adds sweetness and depth.
You can adjust the ratio to suit your taste. Use more mezcal for a stronger drink or more coffee liqueur for a sweeter one.
The Brave Bull is perfect for sipping after dinner. It’s a great choice if you enjoy bold, intense flavors in your cocktails.
18. Mexican Firing Squad
The Mexican Firing Squad is a zesty cocktail that packs a punch. It combines tequila, lime juice, grenadine, and bitters for a tangy and refreshing drink.
You can put a mezcal twist on this classic by swapping out the tequila. The smoky notes of mezcal add depth to the citrusy flavors.
To make it, shake 2 oz mezcal, 1 oz lime juice, 1/2 oz grenadine, and a few dashes of Angostura bitters with ice. Strain into a glass over fresh ice and garnish with a lime wheel.
This mezcal version offers a bolder take on the original. The smokiness balances nicely with the tart lime and sweet grenadine.
19. Charred Pineapple Daiquiri
This cocktail combines the smoky notes of mezcal with the sweet tang of charred pineapple. To make it, grill pineapple slices until they have nice char marks.
Muddle the charred pineapple in a shaker with lime juice and simple syrup. Add mezcal and ice, then shake well.
Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a wedge of grilled pineapple and a sprig of mint for a tropical touch.
The result is a refreshing drink with a unique smoky-sweet flavor profile. It’s perfect for sipping on warm summer evenings or serving at backyard barbecues.
History of Mezcal
Mezcal has deep roots in Mexican culture dating back centuries. Its production methods and cultural importance have shaped its evolution into the spirit we know today.
Origins of Mezcal
Mezcal’s story begins in ancient Mexico. Indigenous peoples first made a fermented drink from agave sap.
When Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 1500s, they brought distillation techniques. This led to the creation of mezcal as we know it.
Oaxaca became the heart of mezcal production. The region has 11 native agave varieties used for mezcal. Small villages developed their own unique styles. Mezcal makers, called mezcaleros, passed down recipes through generations.
Traditional mezcal production is time-consuming. It takes 7-30 years for agave plants to mature. Producers roast the agave hearts in underground pits. They then crush, ferment, and distill the juice.
Cultural Significance
Mezcal plays a big role in Mexican traditions. Many communities use it in religious ceremonies and celebrations. People believe mezcal has healing properties. Some use it as medicine for colds or stomach issues.
The spirit represents Mexican heritage and craftsmanship. Each bottle tells a story of its maker and region. Mezcal production supports many rural families and preserves traditional skills.
You can taste mezcal’s cultural importance in every sip. Its smoky flavor comes from age-old roasting methods. The spirit connects you to centuries of Mexican history and tradition.
Understanding Mezcal Varieties
Mezcal comes from different types of agave plants grown in various regions of Mexico. Each variety has its own flavor profile and characteristics.
Popular Types of Agave
Espadín is the most common agave used for mezcal. It gives a smoky taste with hints of fruit. Tobalá is a wild agave that makes a sweeter, more complex mezcal. Tobaziche produces an earthy, herbal flavor.
Tepeztate takes up to 35 years to mature. It creates a vegetal, citrusy mezcal. Arroqueño agave makes a bold mezcal with mineral notes. Cupreata gives mezcal a spicy, peppery kick.
Regional Variations
Oaxaca is the main mezcal-producing state in Mexico. It makes mezcal with a classic smoky taste. Guerrero mezcals tend to be fruitier and less smoky.
Durango produces mezcal with a drier, more mineral flavor. Guanajuato mezcals often have herbal notes. San Luis Potosí makes mezcal with a lighter, cleaner taste.
Each region’s climate and soil affect the agave’s flavor. This impacts the final taste of the mezcal made there.
Mixing Techniques
Making great mezcal cocktails is all about using the right mixing methods. You’ll want to master a few key techniques to bring out the best flavors.
Shaking is perfect for drinks with citrus juice or other non-clear ingredients.
Fill your shaker with ice, add the ingredients, and shake hard for about 10-15 seconds. This chills and aerates the drink.
For clear cocktails, stirring is best. Use a long bar spoon to gently stir the drink with ice for 20-30 seconds.
This chills and dilutes without over-aerating.
Some mezcal drinks call for muddling fresh fruits or herbs. Use a muddler to gently press and twist the ingredients in the bottom of your glass or shaker.
This releases their flavors and oils.
When a recipe says to “build” a drink, you simply pour the ingredients over ice in the serving glass. Give it a quick stir to combine.
For layered drinks, use the back of a spoon to slowly pour each ingredient. This creates distinct layers of color and flavor.
Remember to taste as you go and adjust ingredients as needed.