A mezcal old-fashioned is a sophisticated, smoky twist on an old-fashioned cocktail. The mezcal and reposado tequila give this cocktail a unique flavor while maintaining classic old-fashioned flavors like bitters.

Looking for a smoky twist on a classic old fashioned recipe?

Like a mezcal margarita, this recipe replaces regular tequila with smoky mezcal for a smoky twist. It’s kind of like an earthier twist on a smoked old fashioned, but we’re ditching the bourbon.

If you want to give your cocktail recipes a Mexican spin, try the mezcal old fashioned. It’s a classic blend of mezcal, tequila, agave syrup, and bitters for a classic cocktail that goes down smooth.

What Is a Mezcal Old Fashioned?

A mezcal old fashioned, aka an Oaxaca old fashioned, replaces the bourbon with a splash of mezcal for smoky notes, reposado tequila for that classic tequila flavor, agave syrup for sweetness, and bitters for that classic old fashioned flavor.

Title

SMOKY – If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, this cocktail is for you! The mezcal adds a unique depth and complexity that sets it apart from traditional Old Fashioneds.
CLASSIC – This cocktail is for those who love a good classic cocktail but want to change things up a bit. The bitters and agave syrup provide the sweet, bitter notes in an old fashioned, while the mezcal and tequila add a smoky spin.

What You Need to Make an Oaxacan Old Fashioned

Reposado tequila – Aged in oak barrels for at least 2 months or up to one year, providing an oaky flavor.
Mezcal – Made from smoking the agave plant in underground pits, providing an earthy, smoky flavor.
Agave syrup – Lightly sweetens the drink, similar to simple syrup in an old fashioned.
Bitters – Feel free to use any bitters you like. You can keep things classic with Angostura bitters or give your cocktail a citrusy twist with orange bitters.
Orange peel to garnish

How to Make a Mezcal Old Fashioned

Fill a mixing glass with ice and add all the ingredients. Stir until chilled.
Add a large ice cube to a glass and strain the cocktail into the glass.
Run the orange peel along the edge of the glass and drop the peel into the glass.

Expert Recipe Tips

Don’t have agave nectar? Use simple syrup instead.
Use large ice cubes for a slower dilution and a smoother drink.
If you prefer a smokier drink, go for a smokier mezcal. On the other hand, choose a smoother mezcal for fewer smoky notes.
Adjust the number of bitters to your taste. A few extra dashes can ramp up the complex flavors.

How to serve this cocktail

Serve your mezcal old fashioned in an old fashioned glass with an orange peel on the side. This drink is the perfect nightcap for after-hours conversations that linger into the morning.

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Get into the agave spirit with this mezcal old fashioned. It’s smoky, classic, and perfect for any time you want a tequila-based cocktail, but don’t want to settle for a margarita. If you try this recipe, please rate the recipe card and leave a comment down below to help out the next reader!