Mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit made from agave, is celebrated for its unique smoky flavor. Curious about how to enjoy it? This article presents ten mezcal cocktails that will elevate your home bar and introduce you to a world of smoky, spicy, and refreshing drinks. If you're looking for a fresh take on some modern classics, stick around!
Before we get into the cocktails, lets talk about what makes mezcal different than tequila. Technically speaking, all tequila is mezcal, but not all mezcal is tequila. In terms of the agave plant used to make tequila and mezcal, the way you produce tequila is different from mezcal. Tequila is made using 100% blue Weber agave. In fact, to classify as tequila, it must be blue Weber agave. Mezcal is different. As long as mezcal is made using agave from the agave species, it's all good.
Let's swap out the simple syrup for some agave nectar and make Mezcal cocktails!
Key Takeaways
- Explore diverse mezcal cocktails like the Mezcal Mule, Oaxacan Old Fashioned, and Smoky Margarita for unique flavors and refreshing twists on classics.
- Mezcal’s versatility shines through in cocktails that range from spicy variations to floral and fruity drinks, perfect for any palate.
- Try simple mezcal highballs or complex blends with amaro to elevate your home bar and impress guests with innovative drinks.
Mezcal Mule: A Modern Classic
The Mezcal Mule is a delightful twist on the classic Moscow Mule, bringing the smoky essence of mezcal to the forefront. This modern classic features mezcal, ginger beer, and fresh lime juice, creating a refreshing drink with a unique depth of flavor. The smoky spirit of mezcal replaces the traditional vodka, offering a richer and more complex taste.
Fill a copper mug with ice, squeeze in fresh lime juice, and add a shot of mezcal. Top with robust Fever Tree® ginger beer. Stir gently, then garnish with candied ginger for added sweetness and spice. This cocktail balances smoky, spicy, and citrusy notes, making it irresistibly enjoyable.
The Mezcal Mule offers a lighter, flavorful option. It’s an excellent choice for fans of the Moscow Mule eager to explore mezcal’s rich, smoky essence. Cheers to innovative twists on classic favorites!
Oaxacan Old Fashioned
The Oaxacan Old Fashioned is a sophisticated mezcal cocktail that combines the best of both worlds: tequila's smoothness and the mezcal's complexity. This cocktail is a modern take on the classic Old Fashioned, featuring a blend of mezcal, tequila, agave nectar, and bitters. It’s a perfect choice for those who appreciate agave spirits' deep, nuanced flavors.
Stir mezcal, tequila, agave nectar, and bitters in a mixing glass with ice. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube, then express an orange peel over the drink for a fragrant citrus aroma that enhances tequila mezcal's smoky and sweet notes.
This cocktail showcases mezcal’s versatility and celebrates Mexico’s rich tradition of producing agave spirits. The Oaxacan Old Fashioned is an ideal introduction for those familiar with whiskey or classic cocktails, offering a familiar yet exciting twist.
Smoky Margarita Variations
When it comes to mezcal cocktails, margaritas are a natural fit. The smoky flavor of mezcal adds a new dimension to this beloved classic, making it a standout choice for any occasion. One of the best variations is the Smoky Casa Margarita, which uses fresh lime juice to create a well-balanced drink. For this recipe, Casamigos Mezcal Joven is highly recommended due to its smooth, smoky profile.
Combine mezcal, fresh lime juice, and agave nectar in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a salt-rimmed glass filled with ice. This creates a refreshing and smoky twist on the classic margarita.
For a spicy kick, try the Vida Margarita. Muddle jalapeño slices in the shaker before adding mezcal, lime juice, and agave nectar. Shake and strain as usual for a spicy, smoky cocktail.
The Spicy Grapefruit Mezcal Cocktail combines grapefruit juice, lime juice, and muddled habanero pepper for a fiery twist. Basil leaves add an aromatic balance to the heat. Shake with mezcal and ice, strain into a glass for a vibrant, spicy drink.
Mezcal Negroni Twist
The Mezcal Negroni is a sophisticated cocktail that takes the classic Negroni and gives it a smoky twist. Mezcal’s rich, smoky flavor profile adds depth and complexity, making it a perfect fit for this timeless drink. The smoky nuances of mezcal can be likened to peated Scotch, which amplifies the complexity of mixed drinks.
To make a Mezcal Negroni, replace gin with mezcal in the traditional recipe. Combine equal parts mezcal, sweet vermouth, and Campari in a mixing glass with ice. Stir well and strain into a chilled glass over a large ice cube, offering a richer, more complex flavor.
For added complexity, add a splash of crème de cacao, which introduces a hint of chocolate that complements mezcal’s smoky notes. Garnish with an orange twist to enhance the aroma, creating a sophisticated twist on a classic cocktail.
Spicy Mezcal Cocktails
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, spicy mezcal cocktails are ideal. The Cranstonian cocktail, featuring Dos Hombres Mezcal Artesanal, cranberry juice, Aperol, and lime juice, with a salt and chili powder rim, blends smoky, sweet, and tart flavors with an added spicy kick.
The mezcal amaro cocktail, combining mezcal with Averna amaro, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and ginger beer, offers a refreshing and complex flavor profile. Its smoky, acidic, and spiced notes make it a versatile option for gatherings.
These spicy mezcal cocktails showcase mezcal’s versatility as a base spirit. Whether you prefer sweet, tart, or spicy flavors, there’s a mezcal cocktail for you. Spice up your next cocktail party and impress your guests with these fiery creations.
Mezcal Highballs
Mezcal highballs are refreshing and easy-to-make cocktails that highlight the smoky flavor of mezcal in a simple, yet delicious way. The Snake Eyes cocktail is a perfect example, featuring mezcal and coconut water. This combination creates a light and refreshing drink that’s perfect for hot summer days.
The Cel Rey highball blends mezcal with celery soda for a savory, unique flavor. Mezcal highballs are simple and refreshing, making them ideal for those new to mezcal or seeking an easy, crowd-pleasing option.
Mezcal highballs demonstrate mezcal’s versatility and ability to pair well with various ingredients. Whether lounging by the pool or hosting a summer barbecue, these drinks are sure to be a hit.
Floral and Fruity Mezcal Drinks
Mezcal cocktails offer plenty of options for fans of floral and fruity flavors. The Ocho cocktail, featuring mezcal infused with hibiscus and raspberry, provides a beautiful floral touch, showcasing mezcal’s versatility.
Mezcal pairs creatively with various floral and fruity ingredients to produce unique, refreshing drinks. Hibiscus floral notes, in particular, enhance the fruity elements, perfect for those who prefer lighter, aromatic cocktails.
Ideal for spring and summer gatherings, these cocktails are refreshing and flavorful. Next time you’re in the mood for something floral and fruity, reach for a bottle of mezcal and get creative!
Mezcal and Citrus Combos
Citrus and mezcal pair perfectly, with citrus acidity balancing mezcal’s smoky flavor. The Stone Raft, a spicy and savory reinterpretation of the Oaxaca Old-Fashioned, is a standout cocktail.
The 50/50 Margarita, combining mezcal with manzanilla sherry, offers a lighter take on the classic cocktail. Fresh lime juice enhances the drink with vibrant acidity, making each sip delightful.
These citrus mezcal cocktails are ideal for those who enjoy fresh, zesty drinks with a smoky twist. They highlight mezcal’s versatility and its ability to pair beautifully with citrus flavors, making them a great addition to any cocktail repertoire.
Mezcal and Amaro Blends
Blending mezcal with amaro creates cocktails with complex, intriguing flavors. The Mezcaletti cocktail, featuring mezcal and Amaro Meletti, showcases nutty and buttery flavors. Combine equal parts mezcal and Amaro Meletti with orange bitters over ice, then garnish with a lemon twist to enhance its aromatic profile.
Though it resembles a Long Island iced tea in appearance, this cocktail delivers distinct flavors of smoke, citrus, rosemary, and sage. It’s perfect for those who appreciate complex, layered drinks.
Mezcal and amaro blends allow exploration of both spirits’ unique flavors, creating sophisticated and delicious cocktails. These drinks are sure to impress anyone who enjoys a well-crafted cocktail.
Mezcal Bloody Mary Variants
The Smokin’ Bloody Maria, a smoky twist on the classic Bloody Mary, features mezcal, tequila, lime, and Bloody Mary mix. Mezcal imparts a smoky flavor, enhanced by lemon juice’s refreshing acidity and horseradish’s spicy kick. Garnish with a cucumber slice and a smoked sea salt rim for extra flavor.
Perfect for brunch or any time you crave a savory, smoky drink, the Smokin’ Bloody Maria showcases mezcal’s versatility and its ability to elevate classic cocktails.
Summary
Mezcal cocktails offer a delightful mix of smoky, rich flavors that can elevate any home bar. From the refreshing Mezcal Mule to the sophisticated Oaxacan Old Fashioned and the fiery Spicy Grapefruit Mezcal Cocktail, there’s a mezcal cocktail for every palate. These recipes highlight the versatility of mezcal, showing how it can be paired with a variety of ingredients to create unique and delicious drinks.
Whether you’re new to mezcal or a longtime fan, these cocktails provide an exciting way to explore the diverse flavors of this beloved agave spirit. By experimenting with different variations and ingredients, you can discover new favorites and impress your guests with your mixology skills. The smoky, complex notes of mezcal bring a distinctive twist to classic cocktails, making each sip an adventure.
So, next time you’re looking to shake up your cocktail repertoire, reach for a bottle of mezcal. With these recipes in hand, you’re well-equipped to create memorable drinks that showcase the rich heritage and unique flavors of mezcal. Cheers to new adventures in mixology!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes mezcal different from tequila?
Mezcal stands apart from tequila mainly because it is produced in different regions of Mexico and typically has a unique smoky flavor from its traditional cooking methods. So, if you're in the mood for something with a bit more depth, mezcal might be your go-to!
Can I use any type of mezcal for these cocktails?
Absolutely, you can use any type of mezcal, but opting for a high-quality one will really enhance the flavor of your cocktails.
What is the best way to store mezcal?
To keep those delightful flavors intact, the best way to store mezcal is in a cool, dark place, preferably in its original bottle. Trust me, your mezcal will thank you!
Can mezcal be substituted in classic cocktails?
Definitely! Mezcal can replace traditional spirits in classic cocktails, bringing a unique smoky flavor to drinks like margaritas and Moscow mules. Give it a try!
Are there any specific garnishes that pair well with mezcal cocktails?
Garnishes like orange peel, candied ginger, basil, and cucumber are fantastic choices to enhance the smoky essence of mezcal cocktails. They make the drink experience even better!