Mezcal Old-Fashioned

When I want a cocktail that feels both classic and a little mysterious, I reach for a mezcal old-fashioned. It has all the familiar warmth of a whiskey old-fashioned but swaps in mezcal for a smoky, earthy edge that tastes like a crackling campfire in your glass. Mezcal is often compared to tequila, as the two spirits are like cousins, especially since they’re both made from agave—except tequila tastes brighter than its counterpart.

A mezcal old-fashioned isn’t just a fall drink, though the smoke and citrus notes do feel cozy. It’s a year-round sipper that shines at backyard barbecues, rooftop hangs, or any night when you’d rather linger with one perfect cocktail than down a few glasses of wine or bottles of beer. This tequila drink combines two agave spirits with bitters for a boozy, complex and surprisingly refreshing cocktail. Once you’ve mastered the recipe, it practically begs for experimentation—switch up your bitters, try an aged tequila or play with new garnishes.

Mezcal Old-Fashioned Ingredients

• Mezcal: Mezcal, made from roasted agave that gives it a signature earthy depth, is the smoky backbone of this cocktail. A joven (young) mezcal works best because it is balanced, approachable and not overly smoky.
• Tequila: Tequila provides balance to the mezcal, adding smoothness and warmth. An aged tequila is the way to go with this drink. When choosing the best tequila for your recipe, know that reposado tequila lends gentle oak and vanilla flavors, while anejo tequila adds deeper caramel and spice notes for a richer drink.
• Agave nectar: This ingredient brings just the right amount of sweetness to round out the bold spirits. And sticking to the agave theme, agave nectar enhances the natural character of the agave spirits in the cocktail.
• Chocolate and orange bitters: Chocolate bitters add a subtle cocoa richness that complements the earthy smoke of mezcal, deepening the cocktail’s complexity. These bitters create a bridge between the sweetness of the syrup and the citrus from the garnish. Orange bitters add brightness and lift, highlighting the citrus garnish and balancing the smoky and chocolate notes in the drink. If you’ve never bought bitters before, Fee Brothers bitters are always a great choice.
• Orange peel: A fresh strip of orange peel is expressed over the glass to release its oils, adding a fragrant citrus note. It also doubles as a garnish that brightens each sip.
• Luxardo cherry (optional): A Luxardo cherry adds a touch of decadent sweetness and a pop of color. While optional, this garnish makes the cocktail feel as if it came straight from a craft cocktail bar.

How to Make a Mezcal Old-Fashioned

Step 1: Combine the spirits and sweetener

In a large mixing glass filled with ice, add the tequila, mezcal, agave nectar and bitters. Stir gently until the mixture is well chilled and slightly diluted.

Editor’s Tip: Stirring—not shaking—keeps this cocktail silky and clear. Aim for about 20 seconds of stirring to mellow the alcohol.

Step 2: Strain into your glass

Strain the cocktail into an old-fashioned glass over fresh ice.

Editor’s Tip: A singular large ice cube is ideal because it melts slowly and won’t water down your drink too quickly.

Step 3: Garnish with flair

Swipe the orange peel along the rim of the glass, then drop it in as a garnish. For an extra touch of sweetness, add a Luxardo cherry before serving.

Editor’s Tip: To express the orange’s aromatic oils better, use a kitchen torch to flame it briefly before swiping it on the rim of the glass.

Mezcal Old-Fashioned Variations

• Tone down the chocolate: You can use just the orange bitters for a brighter citrus vibe, or use Angostura bitters for a classic flavor.
• Swap in simple syrup: If you can’t find agave nectar, simple syrup works just as well. Honey syrup would add floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with mezcal’s smoky edge.
• Experiment with bitters: There are so many options when it comes to bitters. Add a dash of mole bitters to lean into Mexican flavors and create a savory depth, or add something spicy for a little zing.
• Get creative with garnishes: Try different kinds of citrus—like grapefruit peel instead of orange—for a slightly bitter, zesty twist.

How to Store Mezcal Old-Fashioned

If you want to make batched cocktails for a party, combine the mezcal, tequila, syrup, and bitters in a pitcher or airtight container and refrigerate. Leave out the ice and orange peel until you’re ready to serve. Batched cocktails will keep in the fridge for two to three days; however, the fresher they are when served, the better.

Mezcal Old-Fashioned Tips

What is the best mezcal for an old-fashioned?

The best mezcal for an old-fashioned is a joven (young) style because it is smooth and balanced and it doesn’t overwhelm with smoke flavor. Brands like Del Maguey Vida, Montelobos and Sombra are affordable and mix beautifully. Skip the ultra-aged mezcals—they’re better saved for sipping neat.

What else can you serve with a mezcal old-fashioned?

A mezcal old-fashioned recipe pairs beautifully with smoky or spicy foods, like flank steak tacos, queso fundido, or a board of sharp cheeses and chorizo. For dessert, Mexican chocolate brownies and spiced cookies play perfectly with mezcal’s earthy notes.

Can you make a mezcal old-fashioned less smoky?

Yes—reduce the mezcal and increase the tequila to soften the smoke. A 25/75 split of mezcal and tequila is a great way to ease into this cocktail without overpowering your palate. For those who love the complexity, feel free to dial up the mezcal and reduce the tequila.