Mezcal cocktails have gained popularity, offering a smoky twist to traditional drinks. These unique beverages showcase the rich, complex flavors of mezcal, a spirit made from agave plants and known for its distinctive taste profile.
Whether you’re new to mezcal or a seasoned enthusiast, these 21 cocktail recipes will help you explore the versatility of this trendy spirit.
From simple three-ingredient mixtures to elaborate concoctions featuring exotic fruits like guava and mango, there’s something for every palate. These drinks are perfect for special occasions or when you want to try something new and exciting.
1. Mezcal Margarita
The Mezcal Margarita offers a smoky twist on the classic cocktail. It combines mezcal with lime juice and simple syrup over ice.
This drink keeps everything you love about traditional margaritas but elevates the flavor profile with mezcal’s distinctive smokiness. You can garnish it with orange or lime and add a pinch of salt if desired.
To make this cocktail, simply combine mezcal, lime juice, and simple syrup in a glass. Add ice and your chosen garnish. The result is bolder and more complex than a traditional tequila margarita.
It’s perfect for Cinco de Mayo celebrations or anytime you want a more flavorful margarita experience.
2. Oaxaca Old Fashioned
The Oaxaca Old Fashioned is a Mexican twist on the classic cocktail that replaces whiskey with a combination of aged tequila and smoky mezcal. This modern classic was created in New York and has gained popularity for its complex flavor profile.
To make this cocktail, you’ll need reposado tequila, mezcal, agave syrup, and bitters. The drink is simple to prepare but delivers a sophisticated taste experience.
The balanced mix of tequila and mezcal creates a unique flavor that showcases the best of both spirits. The reposado tequila provides smoothness while the mezcal adds a distinctive smokiness.
Try using molé bitters for an authentic Mexican touch that complements the agave-based spirits perfectly.
3. Mezcal Paloma
The Mezcal Paloma offers a smoky twist on the classic tequila-based cocktail. It combines mezcal with fresh grapefruit juice, lime juice, and a touch of sweetness.
To make this refreshing drink, mix 1.5 oz of mezcal with 1.5 oz of fresh grapefruit juice and 0.5 oz of lime juice. Add 0.5 oz of agave nectar for sweetness.
Serve in a glass with a tajin rim for a spicy kick. You can garnish with rosemary and grapefruit for extra flavor and visual appeal.
The smoky notes of mezcal perfectly balance the citrus flavors, creating a drink that’s both bright and complex. It’s especially refreshing on warm days.
4. Naked & Famous
The Naked & Famous is a modern classic cocktail created by Joaquín Simó in 2011. It’s known for its perfect balance of four equal parts.
This impressive drink combines smoky mezcal, Aperol, yellow Chartreuse, and fresh lime juice – each at ¾ oz per serving. The result is a complex yet harmonious flavor profile.
You can use any mezcal you have on hand, though the choice will affect the final taste. Del Maguey Chichicapa offers a smoother, more subtle flavor compared to Vida mezcal.
The cocktail draws inspiration from the classic Last Word but delivers its own unique character with the smoky notes of mezcal balancing perfectly with the other ingredients.
5. Mezcal Mule
The Mezcal Mule is a smoky twist on the classic Moscow Mule. It substitutes vodka with mezcal to create a cocktail with earthy, complex flavors.
To make a Mezcal Mule, you’ll need 2 ounces of mezcal, 1/2 ounce of fresh lime juice, and 4-6 ounces of ginger beer.
Combine these ingredients over ice in a copper mug. Garnish your drink with a lime wheel and mint sprig for a refreshing finish.
The smokiness of the mezcal pairs wonderfully with the spicy kick of ginger beer.
This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy traditional mules but want something with more character and depth.
6. Mezcal Negroni
The Mezcal Negroni offers a smoky twist on the classic cocktail. It swaps gin for mezcal, creating a rich, complex flavor profile with notes of smoke and earth.
To make this cocktail, combine equal parts mezcal, sweet vermouth, and Campari in a mixing glass. Some recipes suggest adding orange bitters for depth.
The drink pairs beautifully with burnt orange and cinnamon flavors, making it perfect for fall and winter occasions. You can serve it in a rocks glass over ice with an orange peel garnish.
For a refreshing variation, try the Mezcal Negroni Tonic by adding ice and tonic water to a tall glass after mixing the base ingredients.
7. Tia Mia
The Tia Mia is a clever twist on the classic Mai Tai that incorporates mezcal for a smoky edge. This cocktail balances 1 oz of mezcal with 1 oz of Jamaican rum for a complex base.
The drink also includes 3/4 oz fresh lime juice, 1/2 oz orgeat syrup, and 1/2 oz orange curaçao. These ingredients create a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and smoky flavors.
To make a Tia Mia, simply combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with crushed ice. For a finishing touch, express an orange peel over the top to release its oils.
8. Fumata Bianca
The Fumata Bianca is a sophisticated mezcal cocktail that balances smoky and citrusy flavors perfectly. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for something dry and refreshing.
The classic recipe calls for 1½ oz Del Maguey Mezcal, ¾ oz dry vermouth, ½ oz fresh lemon juice, and a touch of simple syrup. Some variations include herbal Suze liqueur for added complexity.
When you taste this cocktail, you’ll notice how the smokiness of the mezcal pairs beautifully with the bright citrus notes. The dry vermouth adds depth while keeping the drink balanced and sophisticated.
This cocktail is ideal for those new to mezcal but also satisfies experienced mezcal enthusiasts.
9. Mezcal Sour
The Mezcal Sour offers a smoky twist on the classic sour cocktail formula. This drink combines mezcal’s distinctive smokiness with bright citrus notes for a balanced flavor experience.
To make this cocktail, you’ll need 2 ounces of mezcal, 1 ounce of fresh lime juice, and ¾ ounce of agave syrup. Adding ½ ounce of egg white creates a silky texture and frothy top, though this ingredient is optional.
Shake all ingredients vigorously with ice, then strain into a rocks glass. For presentation, garnish with a lime wheel or some lime zest. The combination of smoky, sour, and sweet makes this cocktail especially memorable.
10. Kiwiriqui
The Kiwiriqui is a sophisticated cocktail that blends the smoky notes of mezcal with sweet kiwi liqueur. This refreshing drink perfectly balances these contrasting flavors.
To make this summer-ready cocktail, you’ll need mezcal and kiwi liqueur as your base ingredients. The smoky depth of the mezcal creates an interesting contrast with the bright, fruity sweetness of the kiwi.
You can garnish your Kiwiriqui with a slice of fresh kiwi or a sprig of mint for added visual appeal. This cocktail is perfect for warm weather gatherings or when you want something unique to serve guests.
11. El Pastor
El Pastor is a mezcal cocktail inspired by the popular al pastor taco flavors. It combines smoky mezcal with bright, tropical notes.
The classic recipe calls for 2 oz of Ilegal Mezcal Joven, 1 oz achiote-infused pineapple juice, 1 oz lime juice, and 0.5 oz agave nectar. The achiote infusion gives the drink its distinctive color and flavor.
Some variations include an “Al Pastor washed” mezcal, where the spirit is infused with actual al pastor flavors. This creates a savory element that balances perfectly with the sweet pineapple and citrus.
You can garnish with a pineapple wedge or cilantro sprig to complete this taco-inspired cocktail.
12. Breakfast Daisy
The Breakfast Daisy is a refreshing mezcal cocktail that combines smoky flavors with bright citrus notes. To make this drink, you’ll need 2 oz of mezcal, ¾ oz of fresh lime juice, ½ oz of Earl Grey syrup, ½ oz of pamplemousse (grapefruit) liqueur, and a pinch of kosher salt.
Combine all ingredients with ice in a cocktail shaker. Shake well until chilled, then strain into a coupe glass. The Earl Grey syrup adds subtle tea flavors while the grapefruit liqueur balances the smokiness of the mezcal.
This cocktail works well for brunch gatherings or as an evening refresher. Its name suggests morning enjoyment, but you can savor this balanced drink any time of day.
13. Redheaded Saint
The Redheaded Saint is a modern twist on the classic El Diablo cocktail. It brings together mezcal, blanco tequila, fresh lime juice, and raspberry syrup.
What makes this drink special is the balance between smoky mezcal and the sweetness of raspberry. The recipe typically calls for just ½ oz of mezcal alongside 1½ oz of tequila, making it approachable for mezcal newcomers.
You’ll finish the cocktail with ginger beer, which adds a spicy kick that complements the smoky and fruity flavors. It’s a refreshing summer sipper that showcases mezcal’s versatility without overwhelming your palate.
14. Hot Lips
Hot Lips is a fiery mezcal cocktail that combines smoky and spicy flavors. This exciting drink features both mezcal and jalapeño-infused tequila for a double hit of Mexican spirits.
The recipe typically includes 0.75oz of jalapeño-infused blanco tequila, 0.75oz of mezcal, vanilla syrup, and cane sugar syrup for sweetness. Fresh citrus comes from 0.5oz of lemon juice, while 0.5oz of pineapple juice adds tropical fruitiness.
When you make Hot Lips, you’ll stir the ingredients rather than shake them. This creates a smooth, integrated flavor profile where the smoky mezcal and spicy jalapeño complement each other perfectly.
15. Fumata Bianca Cocktail
The Fumata Bianca is a sophisticated mezcal cocktail that balances smoky, bitter, and sweet flavors perfectly. Its name translates to “white smoke” in Italian, referencing the smoky character of mezcal.
This cocktail combines mezcal (typically 1½ oz) with sweet bianca vermouth and herbal Suze liqueur for complexity. Some recipes add a touch of fresh lemon juice and simple syrup to brighten the drink.
The result is a soft yet edgy mixture that goes down easily despite its complex flavor profile. You’ll enjoy how the smoky notes from the mezcal blend with the herbal bitterness and subtle sweetness.
Try this cocktail when you want something sophisticated that showcases mezcal’s unique character without overwhelming your palate.
16. Mezcalita Verde
The Mezcalita Verde is a refreshing cocktail that brings together the smoky notes of mezcal with vibrant green ingredients. This Mexican-inspired drink creates a balanced flavor profile that’s both complex and approachable.
To make this cocktail, you’ll need mezcal, pineapple, jalapeño, lime, cucumber, agave syrup, and parsley. The “jugo verde” (green juice) forms the base that complements the distinctive character of mezcal.
The combination of sweet pineapple, spicy jalapeño, and fresh herbs creates a bright, garden-fresh taste. The cucumber adds a cooling element while the lime provides necessary acidity to balance the agave’s sweetness.
This cocktail offers a perfect introduction to mezcal if you’re new to this spirit or looking to expand beyond traditional mezcal drinks.
17. El Padron
El Padron is a smoky and spicy mezcal cocktail that features padron peppers. This unique drink balances the smoky elements of mezcal with fresh citrus notes.
To make an El Padron, you’ll need mezcal, a liqueur (typically orange), padron pepper agave syrup, lime juice, and rock salt.
Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well.
The distinctive flavor comes from the padron pepper syrup, which adds a gentle heat to complement the mezcal’s smokiness. You can adjust the spice level by changing the amount of syrup used.
Serve this cocktail in a rocks glass with fresh ice. It makes an excellent choice for those who enjoy complex flavors with a bit of heat.
18. Mezcal & Verdita
Verdita is a vibrant green juice that pairs perfectly with mezcal. This traditional Mexican pairing highlights mezcal’s smoky notes with fresh, herbal flavors.
To make verdita, blend pineapple, cucumber, jalapeño, cilantro, and mint with a splash of water. Strain the mixture to create a smooth, bright green juice.
You can enjoy this pairing in two ways. Serve the mezcal with verdita as a side chaser, alternating sips between them.
Or mix them together in a cocktail called Mezcalita Verdita for a refreshing drink with complex flavors.
The combination offers a perfect balance – the verdita’s sweet, spicy, and herbal notes complement the smoky character of good mezcal.
19. Mezcal Mangarita
The Mezcal Mangarita is a tropical twist on a classic margarita, featuring fresh mango and smoky mezcal. This vibrant cocktail balances sweetness with a hint of smoke.
To make this drink, combine 2 ounces of mezcal with 1 ounce of lime juice and 1 ounce of mango puree. Add a splash of agave syrup for sweetness.
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a salt-rimmed glass. You can garnish with a slice of mango or lime for a colorful finish.
For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of tajin or chili powder to the rim. The smoky-sweet combination makes this cocktail perfect for summer gatherings.
20. The Mezcal Mule Spiced Twist
The Mezcal Mule offers a smoky twist on the classic Moscow Mule. This refreshing cocktail combines the deep, earthy flavors of mezcal with the bright zing of ginger beer.
To make this cocktail, you’ll need 2 ounces of mezcal, 0.5 ounces of fresh lime juice, and 4 ounces of ginger beer. For the spiced twist, add a dash of cinnamon or a few slices of jalapeño.
Mix the mezcal and lime juice in a copper mug filled with ice, then top with ginger beer. Garnish with a lime wheel and mint sprig for a perfect presentation.
This drink works well year-round but is especially enjoyable during warm weather gatherings.
21. The Smoky Grapefruit & Lime
This cocktail combines the smokiness of mezcal with bright citrus flavors. The pairing of grapefruit and lime creates a refreshing counterpoint to mezcal’s intensity.
To make this drink, you’ll need 1.5 oz mezcal, freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice, lime juice, and a touch of honey for balance. Some recipes also include rosemary for an aromatic element.
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake until very cold. Strain into a glass with fresh ice and garnish with a grapefruit wedge or rosemary sprig.
You can adjust the sweetness to your preference by varying the honey amount. This cocktail works well year-round but is especially refreshing in warmer months.
History of Mezcal Cocktails
Mezcal has a rich cultural heritage that spans centuries, evolving from traditional Mexican consumption to modern global cocktail ingredients. Its smoky profile has captivated bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
Origins of Mezcal
Mezcal’s story begins with indigenous Mexican cultures who discovered that cooking the heart of the agave plant produced a flavorful spirit. The name “mezcal” comes from Nahuatl, meaning “oven-cooked agave plant.”
Unlike its cousin tequila, mezcal can be made from over 30 different agave varieties. Early mezcal was consumed straight, often during ceremonies and celebrations.
For centuries, mezcal production remained localized in regions like Oaxaca, where families passed down traditional production methods through generations. These techniques included:
- Cooking agave hearts in underground pits
- Crushing the cooked agave with stone wheels
- Fermenting in wooden vats
- Distilling in clay or copper stills
Evolution of Mezcal Cocktails
Mezcal stayed relatively unknown outside Mexico until the late 20th century. When it entered international markets, bartenders were initially unsure how to incorporate its strong, smoky profile into drinks.
The first popular mezcal cocktails were simple variations of tequila classics like the Margarita and Paloma. These swapped tequila for mezcal to create more complex flavor profiles.
By the 2010s, mezcal cocktails exploded in popularity. Bartenders began creating signature drinks that highlighted mezcal’s uniqueness rather than hiding it. Popular combinations include:
- Mezcal with citrus juices (lime, grapefruit)
- Mezcal with Aperol or other bitter liqueurs
- Mezcal with fruit nectars like mango or guava
Today, you can find mezcal featured in sophisticated cocktails at bars worldwide, from the simple Mezcal Mule to complex creations with homemade ingredients.
The Art of Mixing Mezcal
Mezcal brings unique smoky flavors to cocktails that can transform familiar recipes into exciting new experiences. The key to creating great mezcal drinks lies in understanding its character and knowing which ingredients complement its complex profile.
Understanding Mezcal Flavors
Mezcal offers a distinctive smoky profile that sets it apart from other spirits. This smokiness comes from the underground pit roasting of agave hearts during production. Beyond smoke, mezcal can present earthy, vegetal, fruity, and sometimes mineral notes depending on the agave variety and production methods.
Different mezcal types offer varying flavor intensities. Espadin agave mezcals typically provide balanced smokiness ideal for cocktails, while wild agave varieties like Tobalá or Tepeztate might present more complex, intense profiles.
When selecting mezcal for cocktails, consider its smoke level. More pronounced smoke works well in bold drinks with strong flavors. Lighter, less smoky options blend better in delicate cocktails where subtle mezcal notes are desired.
Pairing Mezcal with Ingredients
Citrus fruits like lime create excellent balance with mezcal’s smoky character. This explains why mezcal shines in variations of classic sours and margaritas. The bright acidity cuts through the smoke while enhancing the spirit’s complexity.
Sweet ingredients that complement mezcal include:
- Pineapple juice
- Agave syrup
- Orgeat (almond syrup)
- Chipotle-pineapple syrup
Spicy elements pair wonderfully with mezcal. Try adding:
- Tabasco sauce (3-4 dashes)
- Fresh jalapeño slices
- Ancho chile liqueur
- Ginger beer
Herbs like mint and cilantro can brighten mezcal cocktails. Bitters, especially Angostura, add depth and complexity that enhances the spirit’s earthy qualities.
Start with small amounts of mezcal (¾-1½ oz) when experimenting until you understand how it interacts with other ingredients.
