Mezcal Old Fashioned Recipe

Mezcal: A smoky, distilled alcoholic beverage made from agave plants, offering a unique flavor profile distinct from tequila.

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

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

Orange peel: The outer skin of an orange, used to express oils and add a citrusy aroma and flavor to the drink.

When preparing a Mezcal Old Fashioned, it's crucial to pay attention to the quality of your ice. Using a large, clear ice cube not only chills the drink effectively but also melts more slowly, preventing dilution and maintaining the cocktail's balanced flavors. Additionally, when expressing the oil from the orange peel, hold it about an inch above the glass and give it a firm twist to release the essential oils, enhancing the drink's aromatic profile.

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

• agave syrup - Substitute with honey syrup: Honey syrup offers a similar sweetness and viscosity, making it a good alternative to agave syrup.

• angostura bitters - Substitute with orange bitters: Orange bitters can add a citrusy twist while still providing the bitter notes needed for balance.

• orange peel - Substitute with lemon peel: Lemon peel can provide a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor, similar to orange peel.

• To store your Mezcal Old Fashioned, first ensure you have a clean, airtight container. A glass bottle with a secure cap works wonders for preserving the flavors.
• Pour the mezcal mixture into the container, leaving a little room at the top to allow for any expansion if freezing.
• Seal the container tightly to prevent any air from getting in, which can degrade the quality of your cocktail.
• Label the container with the date and contents. This helps you keep track of how long it has been stored.
• For short-term storage, place the container in the refrigerator. This will keep your Mezcal Old Fashioned fresh for up to a week.
• If you plan to store it for a longer period, consider freezing. Place the sealed container in the freezer. The alcohol content will prevent it from freezing solid, but it will keep the cocktail fresh for up to three months.
• When you're ready to enjoy your Mezcal Old Fashioned, remove it from the refrigerator or freezer. If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours.
• Give the container a gentle shake to mix any settled ingredients before serving.
• Pour the chilled cocktail over a large ice cube in a rocks glass.
• Express the oil of a fresh orange peel over the glass and drop it in as a garnish to revive the vibrant aroma and flavor.

• Pour the mezcal old fashioned into a small saucepan.
• Warm it gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
• Avoid bringing it to a boil, as this can alter the flavors of the mezcal and agave syrup.
• Once warmed to your desired temperature, pour it back into a rocks glass over a fresh large ice cube.
• Express the oil of a fresh orange peel over the glass, then drop it in as a garnish.

• Mixing glass: A vessel used to combine the mezcal, agave syrup, and bitters with ice.

• Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon used to stir the ingredients until well-chilled.

• Strainer: A tool to strain the mixed drink into the serving glass, ensuring no ice or unwanted particles get through.

• Rocks glass: A short, wide glass used to serve the Mezcal Old Fashioned over a large ice cube.

• Large ice cube mold: A mold to create large ice cubes that melt slowly, keeping the drink chilled without diluting it too quickly.

• Peeler: A tool to create a twist of orange peel for garnishing the drink.

• Jigger: A measuring tool to ensure precise amounts of mezcal and agave syrup are used.

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

Use a jigger: A jigger helps you quickly and accurately measure the mezcal and agave syrup.

Chill the glass: Place your rocks glass in the freezer ahead of time to ensure your drink stays cold longer.

Pre-cut garnishes: Prepare the orange peel garnish in advance to save time during assembly.

Batch your cocktails: If making multiple drinks, mix a larger batch of the mezcal and agave syrup mixture to save time.