Mezcal Old Fashioned Cocktail

A mezcal old fashioned is made with mezcal and reposado tequila, and also goes by the name Oaxaca old fashioned.

The mezcal old fashioned has become my husband's favorite drink to sip on. It's a take on a classic old fashioned, but instead of bourbon, the cocktail has tequila and mezcal.

While this cocktail is very simple to make, it's important to use a high-quality Mezcal and Reposado Tequila for the best taste.

What is Mezcal?

Mezcal is made from the heart or 'piña' of the agave plant. The piña is roasted underground then smashed to extract the juice. The roasting gives the mezcal a smoky flavor.

Multiple varieties of agave plants can be used for mezcal. Tequila on the other hand can only come from blue agave plants.

What is Reposado Tequila?

Reposado means 'rested', and it's tequila that is aged in oak barrels anywhere from 2-12 months. Giving the tequila notes of oak and vanilla.

Reposado tequila is meant as a sipping tequila and therefore not recommended for mixing in cocktails like a margarita. Instead use a tequila blanco for margaritas or palomas.

How to Make a Mezcal Old Fashioned

Now that you know the 2 types of liquors to use, we can make the Mezcal Old Fashioned. This cocktail can either be mixed in a rocks glass or in a mixing glass.

Ingredients:

• Reposado Tequila
• Mezcal
• Agave
• Bitters
• Orange peel or Dried Orange

Start by adding a large ice cube to the glass. My refrigerator makes ice balls, so I'm using those. If using a dried orange slice, add that to the glass too. Another option is to use an orange peel and flame it once the cocktail is made.

Add 2 ounces Reposado Tequila and either 1 ounce or .5 ounce Mezcal. If you are unfamiliar with the taste of mezcal, start with .5 ounces.

Then add .5 ounces of agave syrup, and a couple dashes of bitters. Stir the drink well to dissolve the agave.

To flame the orange peel, use a pairing knife to peel a small piece of the orange peel. Don't get the pith, the white part. Light a match and hold it about 6 inches above the drink.

With the orange peel facing towards the match squeeze it quickly to release its oil into the cocktail, then place the peel in the drink. Serve the drink immediately.

A Mezcal Old Fashioned is meant to be sipped and enjoyed as an after-dinner drink. Pair it with a dessert link my chocoflan.