Mezcal is a unique agave spirit that’s part smoky, part sweet, and 100 percent delicious. Odds are you’re very familiar with Mezcal’s sister spirit, tequila. But there’s a difference between the two. Tequila is only distilled from the blue agave plant in very specific regions of Mexico. Mezcal, on the other hand, comes from over 30 varieties of agave. Like tequila, you can sip on mezcal straight up or enjoy it in an alluring cocktail. Speaking of which, I highly recommend opting for the latter and trying these 17 sensational mezcal cocktails. From classic to contemporary, there’s a Mezcal cocktail here for everyone to enjoy.
1. Mezcal Margarita
The best way to introduce you to the wonders of Mezcal is with everyone’s favorite summer cocktail, the margarita. Replacing tequila with mezcal makes this classic even more complex. It’s a nice balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy. This recipe takes it a step further and uses a fresh blend of citrus. This includes lime, lemon, and mandarin orange. Pair that with the jalapeno and maple syrup and you have one outstanding margarita.
2. Mezcal Mule
A Moscow mule has all the components necessary to make a simple and vivacious mezcal drink. Starting with a glass of ice, you’ll pour in a shot of Mezcal and a splash of lime juice. Then top it off with your favorite ginger beer. While the traditional mule is great, I think this one is even better. Mezcal imparts a layer of depth you don’t get with the standard vodka base.
3. Mezcal Paloma
Palomas typically consist of tequila, grapefruit, and lime. Needless to say, this cocktail is perfect for a mezcal spin. It features mezcal and citrus along with a few other mixers. This includes a delightful honey simple syrup and bubbly club soda. The result is a super fresh and smoky beverage that reminds me of a summer cookout that will also make for a fabulous food and drink pairing.
4. Mezcal Negroni
A negroni is already a sweet and bitter drink. Add in the smokiness of mezcal and this classic has met its perfect match. Keep it classy and serve this in an old-fashioned glass with an orange peel garnish. This sophisticated sipper is a superb after-dinner relaxer. It’s also super simple, so you’ll be able to kick back in no time.
5. Mezcal Sour
This is not your average run-of-the-mill cocktail. It’s a creamy, smoky, tangy treat with perfect proportions. A play on a whiskey sour, this mezcal sour touches on a whirl of tastes with a delightful frothy consistency. Take a sip and let the flavors coat your palate. You’ll detect a dash of bitters, a hint of agave syrup, and an array of botanicals from the Montenegro amaro. With all that, you can still taste the bold flavors of Mezcal. In case you aren’t familiar, Montenegro amaro is an Italian liqueur that features over 40 different botanicals.
6. Strawberry Mezcal Mojito
I would swear this is a tiki cocktail if it weren’t for the mezcal. This lavish, fruity drink is as fresh as an ocean breeze while being bold and daring at the same time. Mezcal, lime juice, and seltzer make best friends with sweet agave, strawberries, and mint. In true mojito fashion, this one is heavy-handed on the mint making for a supreme refreshment.
7. Mezcal Harvest Ole
Mezcal gets its smoky flavor from the agave roasting process. It’s this smoky quality that makes this recipe so great. Part fall cocktail, part winter cocktail, this recipe is like an apple harvest in a glass. It features fresh apple cider with a splash of mezcal and a twist of citrus. This is a terrific refreshment for gatherings and feasts alike. Plus, you can easily mix this up in a pitcher for a big batch.
8. Mezcal Old-Fashioned
With this modern old-fashioned, you don’t have to decide between Mezcal and tequila because it comes with both. Nixing the whiskey, this Mexican version is a swift kick of agave spirits. To tone down the booze, you’ll add a dash of Angostura bitters and agave syrup. I find it amazing how these two simple mixers round out the flavors of the liquors. While this may not be your traditional old-fashioned, the ingredients have what it takes to make a timeless classic.
9. Honey & Smoke Mezcal Cocktail
If I were a mixologist, this cocktail would be my signature drink. The sweetness of the honey simple syrup plays on the smokiness of the Mezcal in the most spectacular fashion. Did I also mention it has a glug of ginger beer? Not only is it super tasty, but it’s fizzy too! Summer or winter, I can imbibe this libation any time of year. If you’re looking to make it your own, I think agave syrup will also make a fantastic substitution for the honey.
10. The Prickly Lady
I find the loud color of this concoction to be incredibly alluring. Take a sip and you’ll quickly discover that the mix is even more enticing. The prickly pear juice is what gives this cocktail a gorgeously vibrant fuschia color. It’s also what gives it an exquisite taste. While it may look frilly, the addition of mezcal makes it deep and moody. Meanwhile, the ginger liqueur makes it a bit fiery. This recipe does call for a pinch of powdered sugar, but I think it’s good without it.
11. Island Mango Mezcal Breeze
Take a break from your usual routine and treat yourself to this island breeze. This bright, lively cocktail encapsulates a Mexican paradise in a glass. It’s slightly spicy, smoky, and big on fruit. The mango juice is the perfect match for the mezcal and tequila. Meanwhile, the sparkling water keeps it all from falling flat. If you like mango chili candy, I say rim the glass in some Tajin or Mexican chili seasoning. It will add an extra kick that will taste smashing with the mango.
12. Apple Cider Mezcal Margarita
Thanks to this brilliant creation, the margarita season extends from summer straight into fall. This cocktail consists of three ingredients and only takes a few minutes of your time. You’ll need fresh apple cider, mezcal, and some lime. If it’s not sweet enough, a touch of agave syrup will do the trick. And if you’re really feeling fancy, you can rim the glass with some cinnamon and sugar.
13. Mexican Mint Julep
It may come as a surprise that the mint julep has many variations. Yet, julep itself refers to a spirit-based beverage served over crushed ice. The one most of us are familiar with is the signature Kentucky Derby version that features bourbon and mint. However, this version gives it a Mexican spin in honor of another spring event, Cinco de Mayo. It calls for a dazzling mix of Mezcal, jalapeno, mint, and brown sugar. You’ll want the sugar to fully dissolve so add that in first.
14. Cheermister Punch
This spiked punch is beyond fitting for the holidays. Pomegranate juice, tequila, and mezcal make it oh-so-cheery. Meanwhile, sparkling water and homemade ginger syrup make it oh-so-nice. You’ll want either a large pitcher or punch bowl for this batch cocktail. Depending on your guest list, you may also want to double the recipe.
15. Smoky Watermelon Lemon Margarita
I know I’ve already mentioned a couple of margarita recipes, but I have to mention one more. This one is overflowing with refreshing ingredients that are perfect for any summer occasion. The fresh watermelon makes it seriously juicy while the mezcal builds complexity. I like mine spicy so I always opt for the jalapeno slices. Speaking of which, if you like spicy too, don’t skip the chili lemon salted rim. It’s the perfect touch for this creation.
16. Mezcal Mango Smash
This is another sensational Mezcal and mango cocktail. The mix of ingredients is truly sublime. It combines mango nectar and orange liqueur with fresh jalapenos and cilantro. Of course, some Mezcal is also mixed in too. I think this drink will kill it at taco Tuesday with some blackened salmon or coconut shrimp tacos.
17. Peach Mezcal Cocktail
If you need a classy drink that isn’t overly fancy, this four-ingredient cocktail is an excellent choice. You’ll combine Mezcal with peach juice, agave nectar, and bitters. This recipe specifically uses Los Amantes Mezcal which is hand-crafted with agave from Oaxaca. It may not be the cheapest stuff, but that’s part of what makes it fancy. That and you’ll also muddle the peaches which adds another level to your shows-topping mixology presentation. Click on a star to rate it!
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