Travel may be a little tricky these days, but you can still traverse the globe with these delicious drink recipes to try at home.
Today's cocktail hails from New York City – Mezcal Old Fashioned.
What is it?
A unique and tasty twist on the grandfather of cocktails. The Mezcal Old Fashioned is the perfect blend of sweet and smoke.
Origins
The idea of replacing Bourbon and Rye with the equally smokey Mezcal is the brainchild of tequila expert Phillip Ward, who invented the drink in 2007 at Death & Co. in New York City's East Village.
You'll need (serves 1)
2 oz of Mezcal (or 4 tbsp of Mezcal)
2 dashes of Angostura bitters
1 dash of Orange bitters
1 tsp of Simple Syrup
ice
Orange slice (for garnish)
Tip: To prepare simple syrup, combine equal volumes of water and sugar in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, and stir until sugar dissolves. Cool. This will keep refrigerated for at least a month.
Method
Step 1: Combine Mezcal, Angostura bitters, Orange bitters and simple syrup in a tall glass
Step 2: Add ice and stir until ingredients get cold
Step 3: Grab a smaller, fancier glass and add ice
Step 4: Strain drink into new glass
Step 5: Peel a slice of orange skin, twist it, rub it around the rim of the glass and drop into the drink
Tasting notes
Mezcal traditionally carries a smokey flavor, making it a great alternative to Bourbon or Rye (which is most commonly used in Old Fashioneds). The fusion of the sweet and smoke of the ingredients is incredible and allows for a very smooth and easy drink while not being too sweet or fruit-forward.
For additional cocktail recipes, check out our Destination Drinks page.
This article was originally published in April 2020 and updated in October 2020.