Mezcal Margarita Recipe (Mezcalita)

The mezcal margarita is more than just a twist on the classic. It is a whole new experience. You still get that refreshing tang of a margarita, but the smoky and earthy flavor of mezcal takes it to another level. It is one of those drinks that is hard to forget.

I remember the first time I tried a mezcal margarita. We were having a casual night experimenting with cocktails, and that smoky flavor from the mezcal completely surprised me. Mezcal is different from tequila because it is made by roasting agave in earthen pits, which gives it a unique and bold taste.

In this post, I will show you a super easy mezcal margarita recipe you can whip up at home. Plus, I will share a few tips and variations to help you create your own version. Let’s mix up something new for your next happy hour!

What is Mezcal and How Is It Different from Tequila?

Let’s clear up the difference between mezcal and tequila. They both come from agave, but that is where things start to change. Mezcal can be made from many types of agave plants, while tequila is made only from blue agave. This small difference creates two very distinct flavors.

Mezcal is mainly produced in Oaxaca, Mexico, and gets its smoky flavor from roasting agave hearts in earthen pits. Tequila, on the other hand, is steamed, which results in a smoother and cleaner taste.

Now picture yourself enjoying a mezcal margarita. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the citrus and sweetness, making it a cocktail you will definitely remember. Bartenders are catching on to this too, using mezcal to create drinks that are bold and unique.

From what I have noticed, mezcal is becoming more popular in cocktails everywhere. This traditional spirit is making its way back, bringing its deep smoky flavor to drinks like the classic margarita.

Ingredients You’ll Need for a Mezcal Margarita

Making a mezcal margarita is all about using the right ingredients, and each one adds its own magic to this smoky, tangy drink. Let’s go over what you’ll need to whip up a delicious cocktail.

Mezcal

Your choice of mezcal really sets the tone for your margarita. Mezcal has that signature smoky flavor because the agave is roasted in pits. Different types of mezcal, like espadín or tobala, can change up the flavor in fun ways.

Espadín is the most common and gives you a nice balance of smoke and herbal notes. If you’re feeling adventurous, tobala has a deeper, earthier flavor. Brands like Del Maguey or Montelobos are solid picks with great consistency.

Trying out different mezcals is an easy way to explore new flavors and keep things interesting.

Triple Sec or Cointreau

Next, you’ll need something to add a bit of sweetness and citrus. Triple sec or Cointreau both work great here. Cointreau is a bit fancier and smoother, while triple sec is a more budget-friendly option but still gets the job done.

For a richer flavor, you could even go with Grand Marnier, which adds a little depth with its cognac base. The orange liqueur you choose will tweak the sweetness and complexity of your margarita, so it’s fun to experiment and see what you like best.

Fresh Lime Juice

Fresh lime juice is non-negotiable when it comes to making a mezcal margarita. It brings that bright, tangy flavor that balances out the smokiness. Freshly squeezed juice makes a world of difference compared to bottled lime juice, which can taste a bit off.

Squeezing limes by hand might take a little extra effort, but trust me, it is totally worth it for that fresh taste. A handheld juicer makes the job easier if you want to speed things up.

Agave Syrup or Simple Syrup

Agave syrup is the ideal sweetener for this drink since it pairs so naturally with mezcal. Both come from the same plant, so the flavors just click. If you prefer something more neutral, you can use simple syrup instead.

Feel free to adjust how much you add based on your taste. It is all about finding the perfect balance between sweetness and acidity.

Salt for the Rim

A salt rim is the finishing touch that brings everything together. It adds a nice contrast to the sweetness and helps enhance the smoky flavor of the mezcal.

You can stick with classic coarse salt, or mix things up with a chili-salt blend if you want a little heat. Just dip the rim of your glass in lime juice or agave syrup, then roll it in the salt. This little step makes each sip even better.

Now you’ve got everything you need to make an amazing mezcal margarita. Time to get mixing!

How to Make a Mezcal Margarita Cocktail

Let’s make a mezcal margarita that is both smoky and refreshing. You will need mezcal, lime juice, agave syrup, and orange liqueur. And grab some salt for the rim of your glass.

Start by rubbing a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and then dipping it into the salt. It gives a nice salty touch to each sip.

Now, in a cocktail shaker, mix the mezcal, lime juice, orange liqueur, and agave syrup with some ice. Give it a good shake. Shaking helps chill the drink and blend the flavors nicely.

Why shake and not stir? Shaking gets your margarita colder and adds a bit of air, which brings out the smoky flavor of the mezcal even more.

Once shaken, strain the drink into your glass. If it tastes too tart or sweet, just adjust by adding a little more agave syrup or lime juice until it is just right.

The colder the drink, the better it tastes. A well-chilled mezcal margarita brings out that bold smoky flavor and creates a crisp, balanced cocktail.

Feel free to tweak the ingredients to match your taste. Mezcal adds a rich smoky note, making every sip something special. Enjoy!

Tools You’ll Need

It helps to have the right tools to make this cocktail just right:

• A cocktail shaker to mix everything
• A jigger to measure the ingredients
• A lime squeezer to get the juice out quickly
• A rocks glass for serving
• A small plate or bowl for the salt if you want to rim the glass

Mezcal Margarita Variations

Let’s mix things up with a Spicy Mezcal Margarita. Just throw a few jalapeño slices into the shaker for an extra kick. And if you want even more heat, rim your glass with a mix of chili powder and salt. It is fiery and super tasty!

If you are in the mood for something citrusy, give the Mezcal Paloma a try. Swap out the lime juice for some fresh grapefruit juice, and top it off with club soda. It is light, bubbly, and really refreshing.

Got a sweet tooth? The Smoky Peach Mezcal Margarita is your go-to. A little peach purée brings in some sweetness, and you can even add a spicy rim if you are feeling adventurous.

For something tropical, the Pineapple Mezcal Margarita is the way to go. Fresh pineapple juice pairs perfectly with the smoky mezcal, creating the ideal balance of sweet and smoky in every sip.

If you want to try something a bit different, go for a Mezcal Margarita with Smoked Salt. Using smoked salt instead of regular salt gives the drink even more depth, making the smoky flavors of mezcal stand out even more.

Playing around with these variations is a fun way to get creative with your drinks. Mezcal is super versatile, and its smoky flavor works with so many different combinations. Have fun experimenting and see which one becomes your favorite!

Tips for the Perfect Mezcal Margarita

Let’s talk about how to make the perfect mezcal margarita. It is all about finding the right balance.

First, use good ingredients. Fresh lime juice is a must, so skip the bottled kind because it just does not taste the same. And go for a quality mezcal since that smoky flavor is what really makes this drink special.

Balancing sweetness and acidity is key. You can use agave syrup, but if you want a deeper flavor, honey syrup works great too. Play around with it and adjust to what you like best. Do not be afraid to experiment until you find your favorite mix.

When it comes to garnishes, a lime wheel is always a classic choice. But if you want to mix things up, try an orange twist. It adds a nice, fresh aroma.

Serve your mezcal margarita chilled, and consider adding a light salt rim to your glass. It helps bring out the flavors, but do not go overboard with the salt or it might overshadow the drink.

The key is to mix, taste, and adjust until you are happy with it.

What to Serve with a Mezcal Margarita

Pairing food with a mezcal margarita is where the fun begins. There are so many tasty options.

Grilled meats like pork or beef are always a good choice. The smoky, savory flavors of a juicy pork chop or some beef fajitas pair perfectly with the mezcal. It is a combo that really brings out the best in both.

If you like a little heat, spicy Mexican dishes are a great option. Tacos or nachos with some kick go really well with the refreshing lime in the margarita. The spice adds excitement and makes each sip even more refreshing.

Smoky foods like grilled vegetables or dishes with chipotle are another perfect match. They pair well with the earthy flavors of mezcal and add more depth. Try it with some grilled bell peppers or a chipotle salsa, and you will love how everything comes together.

These food pairings take the mezcal margarita experience to the next level. Whether you are hosting a party or just having a quiet night in, these dishes will make your drink even more enjoyable.

Related Post:

• Mezcal Old Fashioned Recipe
• Lavender Margarita Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use tequila instead of mezcal in a Mezcal Margarita?

Yes, you can, but the flavor will be different. Mezcal has smoky and earthy notes, while tequila is smoother and a bit more neutral. If you want a mix of both, try using half tequila and half mezcal. This way, you keep the familiar taste of tequila but still get a hint of mezcal’s smokiness.

What does mezcal taste like compared to tequila?

Even though both come from agave, mezcal and tequila taste pretty different. Mezcal has a bold, smoky, and earthy flavor because the agave is roasted in pits. Tequila is smoother with a clean, slightly sweet taste and not much smokiness. If you are looking for a comparison, mezcal is more like scotch, while tequila is closer to whiskey.

What is the best way to garnish a Mezcal Margarita?

A simple lime wheel or wedge works great to bring out the tartness. For something a bit more exciting, try a smoked salt or chili-lime salt rim to match the smokiness of the mezcal. If you like a little heat, add a slice of jalapeño, or for a fresh twist, use an orange peel for some extra citrus flavor. You can even add fresh herbs like cilantro for a colorful and fragrant garnish.

Mezcal Margarita Recipe

This mezcal margarita blends smoky flavors with a bright, citrusy twist, offering a unique take on a classic favorite. With simple ingredients like mezcal, lime juice, and agave syrup, this cocktail is easy to make and full of bold flavor. Perfect for anyone who loves a little adventure in their drink!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Course Cocktails, Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 1

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 oz mezcal
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1 oz orange liqueur like Triple Sec
• 1/2 oz agave syrup
• salt for the rim optional

Instructions

 

• If you want a salted rim, rub a lime wedge around the rim of the glass, then dip it in salt.
• In your cocktail shaker, combine the mezcal, lime juice, orange liqueur, and agave syrup.
• Add ice to the shaker and shake well until everything is nice and chilled.
• Strain the mixture into your rocks glass filled with ice.
• Add a lime wedge on the rim if you want a little extra flair.

Keyword mezcal margarita cocktail, mezcal margarita cocktail recipe, mezcal margarita recipe, mezcalita recipe