Mezcal Old Fashioned Recipe

Mezcal: A distilled alcoholic beverage made from any type of agave plant native to Mexico, known for its smoky flavor.

Agave syrup: A natural sweetener derived from the agave plant, often used as a healthier alternative to sugar.

Angostura bitters: A concentrated bitters made of water, alcohol, herbs, and spices, used to add depth and complexity to cocktails.

Orange peel: The outer zest of an orange, used to add a citrus aroma and flavor to the drink.

When preparing the mezcal Old Fashioned, ensure you use a high-quality agave syrup to balance the smokiness of the mezcal. Stirring the mixture thoroughly in the mixing glass with ice is crucial to achieve the right dilution and chill. When expressing the orange peel over the glass, hold it about an inch above the drink and give it a firm twist to release the essential oils, which will enhance the cocktail's aroma and flavor.

• mezcal - Substitute with smoky scotch whisky: Smoky scotch whisky can mimic the smoky flavor profile of mezcal, providing a similar depth and complexity to the cocktail.

• agave syrup - Substitute with honey syrup: Honey syrup offers a similar sweetness and viscosity, though it will add a slightly different flavor note that can complement the smokiness of the drink.

• angostura bitters - Substitute with orange bitters: Orange bitters can add a citrusy complexity that pairs well with the smoky and sweet elements of the cocktail, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.

• orange peel - Substitute with lemon peel: Lemon peel can provide a similar aromatic citrus note, though it will impart a slightly different citrus flavor to the drink.

• To store your Mezcal Old Fashioned, first ensure you have a clean, airtight container. A glass bottle with a tight seal works best to maintain the integrity of the mezcal and other ingredients.
• Pour the prepared Mezcal Old Fashioned into the container, leaving a little space at the top to allow for any expansion if freezing.
• Seal the container tightly to prevent any air from getting in, which can affect the flavor and quality of the drink.
• Label the container with the date of preparation to keep track of its freshness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the cocktail within a few days. The cold temperature will help preserve the flavors of the mezcal, agave syrup, and bitters.
• For longer storage, place the sealed container in the freezer. The high alcohol content of the mezcal will prevent the cocktail from freezing solid, but it will keep it very cold and fresh for up to a month.
• When ready to serve, remove the container from the refrigerator or freezer. If frozen, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to thaw slightly.
• Pour the chilled Mezcal Old Fashioned into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
• Express a fresh orange peel over the glass to release its essential oils and drop it in as a garnish for that final aromatic touch.

• Pour the mezcal old fashioned into a small saucepan.
• Heat over low heat, stirring gently, until just warm. Be careful not to overheat as it can alter the flavors.
• Alternatively, place the mezcal old fashioned in a microwave-safe glass.
• Microwave on low power for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently to ensure it doesn't get too hot.
• For a more controlled approach, use a double boiler. Place the mezcal old fashioned in a heatproof bowl over simmering water and stir until warmed.
• Once warmed, pour into a rocks glass over a fresh large ice cube.
• Express a fresh orange peel over the glass to revive the citrus aroma and drop it in as a garnish.

• Mixing glass: A vessel used to combine the mezcal, agave syrup, and bitters with ice, ensuring they are well-chilled and properly mixed.

• Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon used to stir the ingredients in the mixing glass, ensuring they are evenly chilled and diluted.

• Strainer: A tool used to strain the mixed drink from the mixing glass into the rocks glass, keeping the ice in the mixing glass.

• Rocks glass: A short, wide glass used to serve the Mezcal Old Fashioned, typically with a large ice cube to keep the drink cold without diluting it too quickly.

• Large ice cube mold: A mold used to create large ice cubes that melt slowly, keeping the drink cold without watering it down too quickly.

• Peeler: A tool used to create a twist of orange peel for garnishing the drink, adding a citrus aroma and flavor.

• Jigger: A measuring tool used to accurately measure the 2 oz of mezcal and 0.25 oz of agave syrup, ensuring the correct proportions for the cocktail.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare mezcal, agave syrup, and bitters in advance to streamline the process.

Use a jigger: A jigger ensures precise measurements, saving time and reducing errors.

Chill the glass: Place your rocks glass in the freezer beforehand to keep your drink cold longer.

Batch the syrup: Make a larger batch of agave syrup and store it in the fridge for future use.

Express the peel: Prepare the orange peel garnish ahead of time to save a step during assembly.