Mezcal Old Fashioned Cocktail Drink

Mezcal Old Fashioned

A shot of Gavin Wrigley looking to the camera in a dimly lit room
Written by Gavin Wrigley
Andrea
Tested by
Andrea Ottaiano

Want to try something new with your cocktails? This Mezcal Old Fashioned recipe won’t disappoint! It’s a simple drink to make, packed with unique ingredients.

Mezcal Old Fashioned Recipe

This easy Mezcal Old Fashioned recipe is your ticket to a perfect fall! You’ll need Mezcal, agave syrup, Angostura bitters and an orange twist to make this smoky cocktail.

Prep time:

1 minute

Mixing time:

1 minute

Servings:

1

Calories:

236 kl

Ingredients

  • oz Mezcal
  • ½ oz agave syrup
  • 6 dashes of Angostura aromatic bitters
  • Ice cubes
  • Orange twist, for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Old Fashioned Glass
  • Stirrer or Bar Spoon
  • Mixing Glass
  • Jigger
  • Cocktail Strainer

Instructions

  • Prep glass: Fill an Old Fashioned glass with a generous amount of ice cubes.
  • Add Bitters: Pour 6 dashes of Angostura aromatic bitters into the mixing glass.
  • Add agave syrup: Add ½ oz agave syrup.
  • Add Mezcal: Finally, add 2½ oz Mezcal as well.
  • Add Ice and stir: Fill the mixing glass with ice. Using a bar spoon or a long stirrer, stir well (for about 15-20 seconds). Give it a taste and stir a bit more if you feel like more dilution is necessary.
  • Strain: Using the cocktail strainer, strain the mixture into the ice filled Old Fashioned glass.
  • Garnish: Twist an orange peel over the glass to release its oils, then drop it into the drink as garnish.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Mezcal: If you don't have Mezcal on hand, you can use tequila for a similar agave flavor, though it will lack the smoky notes of Mezcal. Try using bourbon for a classic Old Fashioned for a completely different take.
  • Angostura Bitters: If you're out of Angostura bitters, try using orange bitters for a citrusy twist. You could also experiment with other aromatic bitters like Peychaud's or cardamom bitters.
  • Agave Syrup: If you don't have agave syrup, substitute with 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar or simple syrup.

Making a Pitcher:

  • Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 16 oz of Mezcal, 4 oz of agave syrup, and 48 dashes of Angostura aromatic bitters.
  • Mix: Add the Mezcal, the agave syrup, and the angostura bitters in a large pitcher with ice and stir well.
  • Serve: Strain the mixture into ice-filled Old Fashioned glasses, garnish with an orange twist, and serve immediately.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Mezcal Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic spirit that mimics the smoky flavor of Mezcal. Several brands on the market offer alcohol-free spirits with complex flavors.
  • Proceed As Usual: Use this non-alcoholic substitute instead of Mezcal, follow the original steps, and enjoy a non-alcoholic version.

Making it Vegan:

This cocktail is already vegan-friendly as it doesn't contain any animal products. Enjoy a cruelty-free drink!

Nutrition Facts

Calories
236
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
0.1
g
0
%
Sodium
 
1
mg
0
%
Carbohydrates
 
14
g
5
%
Fiber
 
0.03
g
0
%
Sugar
 
10
g
11
%
Potassium
 
2
mg
0
%
Protein
 
0.01
g
0
%
Vitamin C
 
2
mg
2
%
Calcium
 
0.1
mg
0
%
Iron
 
0.04
mg
0
%

 

Mezcal Old Fashioned Cocktail Drink

Mezcal Old Fashioned Recipe

Gavin Wrigley Written by Gavin Wrigley
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This easy Mezcal Old Fashioned recipe is your ticket to a perfect fall! You’ll need Mezcal, agave syrup, Angostura bitters and an orange twist to make this smoky cocktail.
Prep time: 1 minute
Mixing time: 1 minute
Servings: 1
Calories: 236

Ingredients
 

  • oz Mezcal
  • ½ oz agave syrup
  • 6 dashes of Angostura aromatic bitters
  • Ice cubes
  • Orange twist - for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Old Fashioned Glass
  • Stirrer or Bar Spoon
  • Mixing Glass
  • Jigger
  • Cocktail Strainer

Instructions

  • Prep glass: Fill an Old Fashioned glass with a generous amount of ice cubes.
  • Add Bitters: Pour 6 dashes of Angostura aromatic bitters into the mixing glass.
  • Add agave syrup: Add ½ oz agave syrup.
  • Add Mezcal: Finally, add 2½ oz Mezcal as well.
  • Add Ice and stir: Fill the mixing glass with ice. Using a bar spoon or a long stirrer, stir well (for about 15-20 seconds). Give it a taste and stir a bit more if you feel like more dilution is necessary.
  • Strain: Using the cocktail strainer, strain the mixture into the ice filled Old Fashioned glass.
  • Garnish: Twist an orange peel over the glass to release its oils, then drop it into the drink as garnish.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Mezcal: If you don't have Mezcal on hand, you can use tequila for a similar agave flavor, though it will lack the smoky notes of Mezcal. Try using bourbon for a classic Old Fashioned for a completely different take.
  • Angostura Bitters: If you're out of Angostura bitters, try using orange bitters for a citrusy twist. You could also experiment with other aromatic bitters like Peychaud's or cardamom bitters.
  • Agave Syrup: If you don't have agave syrup, substitute with 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar or simple syrup.

Making a Pitcher:

  • Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 16 oz of Mezcal, 4 oz of agave syrup, and 48 dashes of Angostura aromatic bitters.
  • Mix: Add the Mezcal, the agave syrup, and the angostura bitters in a large pitcher with ice and stir well.
  • Serve: Strain the mixture into ice-filled Old Fashioned glasses, garnish with an orange twist, and serve immediately.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Mezcal Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic spirit that mimics the smoky flavor of Mezcal. Several brands on the market offer alcohol-free spirits with complex flavors.
  • Proceed As Usual: Use this non-alcoholic substitute instead of Mezcal, follow the original steps, and enjoy a non-alcoholic version.

Making it Vegan:

This cocktail is already vegan-friendly as it doesn't contain any animal products. Enjoy a cruelty-free drink!

What is a Mezcal Old Fashioned?

A Mezcal Old Fashioned is a smoky spirit cocktail made of Mezcal, agave nectar or syrup, and Angostura bitters. It’s not difficult to make as it involves only a few ingredients and simple steps; however, the key lies in using high-quality Mezcal and balancing the flavors well. This drink is a variant of the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, traditionally using whiskey instead of Mezcal. The substitution with Mezcal introduces an intriguing twist by adding a distinctive smoky flavor that sets it apart from its traditional counterpart.

A side shot of a Mezcal Old Fashioned cocktail in an old fashioned glasson a white coaster surrounded by a jigger, a mezcal bottleand a yellow placemat, in front of a black background

What is a Mezcal Old Fashioned made of – The ingredients

The following ingredients are necessary for making a Mezcal Old Fashioned:

  • Mezcal: This is the cocktail’s base spirit, providing a smoky and earthy flavor profile.
  • Agave Nectar: Used as a sweetener, it balances out Mezcal’s strong, smoky taste.
  • Angostura Bitters: These add complexity and depth to the cocktail with their botanical infusions.
  • Orange Peel: Serves as garnish and adds a subtle citrus aroma that complements the smokiness of Mezcal.
  • Ice Cubes: Chills the drink, dilutes the strong flavors slightly, and adds texture.

Mezcal, agave syrup, and Angostura aromatic bitters, laid out on a white bar table

How do you make a Mezcal Old Fashioned?

With our clear instructions, learn how to prepare a Mezcal Old Fashioned:

1
<p>Start by chilling your old fashioned glass with some ice.</p>

Start by chilling your old fashioned glass with some ice.

2
<p>Add in a mixing glass 6 dashes of angostura bitters. The bitters will help to enhance the flavor profile of the cocktail.</p>

Add in a mixing glass 6 dashes of angostura bitters. The bitters will help to enhance the flavor profile of the cocktail.

3
<p>Measure and pour 1/2 oz of agave nectar into the mixing glass. This will provide the necessary sweetness to balance the smoky flavor of the Mezcal.</p>

Measure and pour 1/2 oz of agave nectar into the mixing glass. This will provide the necessary sweetness to balance the smoky flavor of the Mezcal.

4
<p>Pour two ounces of Mezcal into the mixing glass. Mezcal is the star of this cocktail, providing a unique smoky flavor that sets this drink apart from other old-fashioned cocktails.</p>

Pour two ounces of Mezcal into the mixing glass. Mezcal is the star of this cocktail, providing a unique smoky flavor that sets this drink apart from other old-fashioned cocktails.

5
<p>Add ice into your mixing glass.</p>

Add ice into your mixing glass.

6
<p>Stir the mixture for about 30 seconds to combine all the ingredients. This will also help to chill the cocktail.</p>

Stir the mixture for about 30 seconds to combine all the ingredients. This will also help to chill the cocktail.

7
<p>Once the cocktail is well mixed, strain it into your old fashioned glass over fresh ice.</p>

Once the cocktail is well mixed, strain it into your old fashioned glass over fresh ice.

8
<p>Finally, garnish the cocktail with an orange twist. Begin by squeezing the orange twist over the old fashioned glass.</p>

Finally, garnish the cocktail with an orange twist. Begin by squeezing the orange twist over the old fashioned glass.

9
<p>Then, add the orange twist into the old fashioned glass. The citrusy aroma of the orange twist adds a refreshing note to the smoky and sweet cocktail.</p>

Then, add the orange twist into the old fashioned glass. The citrusy aroma of the orange twist adds a refreshing note to the smoky and sweet cocktail.

Variations

Exploring for more inspiration? Here are a few of our cherished selections:

  • Oaxaca Old Fashioned: This blend combines mezcal and tequila, bringing a smoky twist to the classic. The smokiness from the mezcal pairs beautifully with the earthy undertones of tequila. I love how the agave flavors harmonize, creating a complex and satisfying sip.
  • Mezcal Negroni: This mix replaces gin with mezcal, adding a smoky depth to the traditional Negroni. The bitterness of the Campari and the sweetness of the vermouth balance well with the mezcal’s distinctive smoky flavor. The result is a bold and intriguing mix.
  • Smoky Old Fashioned: This take uses mezcal instead of whiskey, emphasizing a rich, smoky character. The mezcal introduces a distinct earthiness that complements the sweetness of the sugar and the bitterness of the bitters. The smokiness adds a unique twist that I find incredibly appealing, enhancing the drink’s complexity.
  • Mezcal Manhattan: This adapts the classic Manhattan by incorporating mezcal. The smoky, earthy notes of the mezcal blend seamlessly with the sweet vermouth and aromatic bitters, offering a unique and sophisticated profile. The interplay between the smoky and sweet elements is particularly enjoyable.
  • Spicy Mezcal Old Fashioned: This combines mezcal with spicy bitters or infused syrups, adding a kick to the traditional flavors. The heat from the spice contrasts with the mezcal’s smokiness, creating a warm and invigorating blend. I appreciate the added spice, as it brings an exciting and dynamic edge to the mix.

History and Origin of the Mezcal Old Fashioned

The Mezcal Old Fashioned cocktail has a rich history that starts with its main ingredient – Mezcal. This is an alcoholic drink made from the agave plant in Mexico. The Spanish began making Mezcal in the 16th century when they ran out of brandy.

In the 19th century, in Louisville, Kentucky, bartenders created the original Old Fashioned. This simple cocktail mixes spirits, bitters, water, and sugar. It quickly became a favorite in bars all over America.

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, bartenders began to play around with the old-fashioned recipe. They replaced the usual whiskey with other spirits like rum, tequila, and Mezcal.

During this time of trying new things, bartenders discovered the Mezcal Old Fashioned. They loved how the smoky flavor of Mezcal added depth to the classic Old Fashioned recipe.

Recently, more people have started to enjoy craft cocktails and handmade spirits. Because of this trend, the Mezcal Old Fashioned has become even more popular. Now, you can find this smoky and sophisticated drink in fancy bars and restaurants worldwide.

A Mezcal Old Fashioned cocktail, shot from above, in an old fashioned glass on a beige surface surrounded by Mezcal, agave syrup, Angostura aromatic bitters

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FAQ

How many calories are in a Mezcal Old Fashioned?
A standard version contains approximately 200-250 calories. However, this can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and their quantities.
How strong is a Mezcal Old Fashioned?
The strength depends on the alcohol content of the Mezcal used. Typically, Mezcal has an Alcohol By Volume (ABV) of around 40-55%, translating to 80-110 proof. Therefore, considering the cocktail includes non-alcoholic ingredients, the overall strength will be slightly lower than the ABV of the Mezcal itself.
What type of alcohol is used in a Mezcal Old Fashioned?
As the name suggests, the drink uses Mezcal, a distilled alcoholic beverage made from some type of agave plant native to Mexico.
In what kind of glass is a Mezcal Old Fashioned served?
Traditionally, the drink is served in an old-fashioned glass, also known as a rocks glass or lowball glass.
What does a Mezcal Old Fashioned taste like?
The cocktail offers a unique blend of flavors. The smoky and earthy notes of the Mezcal are balanced by the sweetness of agave nectar and the bitterness of Angostura bitters. The result is a complex yet harmonious cocktail with depth and character.
What is the ratio of ingredients in a Mezcal Old Fashioned?
The typical ratio is 4 parts Mezcal to 1 part sweetener (usually agave nectar), with a few dashes of Angostura bitters added for complexity.
How is a Mezcal Old Fashioned served in terms of ice?
A Mezcal Old Fashioned is usually served over ice. Specifically, it's poured over a large ice cube or several smaller ones in an old-fashioned glass.
Is it easy to make a Mezcal Old Fashioned?
Absolutely! Making the drink is relatively straightforward. You only need Mezcal, agave nectar, Angostura bitters, and ice. Stir the ingredients in a mixing glass with ice, then strain into an old-fashioned glass over fresh ice.

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