Mezcal Old Fashioned Recipe

Mezcal: A smoky Mexican spirit made from agave, offering a unique flavor profile.

Agave syrup: A natural sweetener derived from the agave plant, adding a touch of sweetness.

Angostura bitters: Aromatic bitters that add complexity and depth to the cocktail.

Orange twist: A garnish that adds a citrusy aroma and a touch of elegance.

When stirring the mezcal, agave syrup, and bitters in the mixing glass, make sure to use a bar spoon and stir gently but consistently for about 20-30 seconds. This ensures that the ingredients are well integrated and the drink is properly chilled without over-diluting it.

• mezcal - Substitute with smoky Scotch whisky: Smoky Scotch whisky provides a similar smoky flavor profile that is characteristic of mezcal.

• mezcal - Substitute with tequila: Tequila, especially a reposado or añejo, can offer a similar agave base flavor, though it lacks the smokiness of mezcal.

• agave syrup - Substitute with honey syrup: Honey syrup has a similar viscosity and sweetness, though it will impart a slightly different flavor.

• agave syrup - Substitute with simple syrup: Simple syrup is a common sweetener in cocktails and can easily replace agave syrup, though it lacks the agave flavor.

• angostura bitters - Substitute with orange bitters: Orange bitters can add a citrusy complexity that complements the other ingredients well.

• angostura bitters - Substitute with chocolate bitters: Chocolate bitters can add a rich, deep flavor that pairs nicely with the smokiness of mezcal.

• orange twist - Substitute with lemon twist: A lemon twist can provide a similar aromatic citrus note, though it will be slightly more tart.

• orange twist - Substitute with grapefruit twist: A grapefruit twist offers a unique citrus aroma and flavor that can add an interesting twist to the cocktail.

• Store any leftover mezcal in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight. This helps maintain its unique smoky flavor.
• Keep agave syrup in a tightly sealed container at room temperature. If it crystallizes, gently warm it up to restore its liquid form.
• For the orange twist, store any unused peels in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week and still retain their aromatic oils.
• If you want to prepare the Mezcal Old Fashioned in advance, mix the mezcal, agave syrup, and bitters in a bottle and refrigerate. This pre-mixed concoction can be stored for up to a week.
• When ready to serve, pour the pre-mixed drink over a large ice cube in a rocks glass and garnish with a fresh orange twist.
• For a frozen twist, pour the pre-mixed Mezcal Old Fashioned into an ice cube tray and freeze. When you want a quick drink, simply pop a cube into a glass and let it melt slowly over a large ice cube, releasing the flavors gradually.
• Always ensure that any glassware used for storing or serving is clean and dry to prevent any unwanted flavors or contamination.

• Pour the mezcal old fashioned into a small saucepan.

• Heat over low heat, stirring gently to avoid burning the agave syrup.

• Once warmed, pour back into a rocks glass over a fresh large ice cube.

• Garnish with a fresh orange twist to revive the citrus aroma.

• Alternatively, pour the mezcal old fashioned into a microwave-safe glass.

• Microwave on low power for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

• Stir gently and pour over a fresh large ice cube in a rocks glass.

• Garnish with a fresh orange twist for a burst of citrus fragrance.

• Mixing glass: A vessel used to combine the mezcal, agave syrup, and bitters with ice.

• Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon used to stir the ingredients until well chilled.

• Strainer: A tool used to strain the mixed drink into the serving glass, ensuring no ice or other solids are transferred.

• Rocks glass: A short, wide glass used to serve the Mezcal Old Fashioned over a large ice cube.

• Large ice cube mold: A mold used to create a large ice cube that will chill the drink without diluting it too quickly.

• Peeler: A tool used to create a twist of orange peel for garnish.

• Jigger: A measuring tool used to ensure precise amounts of mezcal and agave syrup are used.

Measure ingredients in advance: Prepare mezcal, agave syrup, and bitters ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use a large ice cube: A single large ice cube chills the drink without diluting it too quickly.

Pre-chill the glass: Place your rocks glass in the freezer for a few minutes before use to keep your drink colder longer.

Batch the cocktail: Mix larger quantities of mezcal, agave syrup, and bitters in advance and store in the fridge for quick serving.

Garnish prep: Pre-cut orange twists and store them in an airtight container to save time.