Mezcal Sour Recipe

Want to try something a little different? This mezcal sour recipe is a twist on the classic sour cocktail, adding a smoky, refreshing kick that’s hard to forget. Smoky mezcal, bright citrus, and a hint of agave come together for a bold, balanced drink that’s both simple and delicious.

If you’re into whiskey or pisco sours, this mezcal version is a fun way to change things up. Mezcal’s smoky flavor and deep roots in Mexican culture make it a favorite for cocktail lovers, and this recipe shows you why it’s so popular.

Making this mezcal sour is super easy and only needs a few ingredients. The foamy egg white on top adds a nice touch, especially with a garnish to finish it off. Perfect for happy hour, a Mexican-themed party, or anytime you want to make your home cocktails feel a bit more special!

Ingredients for a Mezcal Sour

Making a mezcal sour is all about combining a few key ingredients to get that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Every ingredient adds something special, giving you a drink that’s smoky, fresh, and a little sweet.

Mezcal

The mezcal is what makes this drink shine with that deep, smoky flavor. Its earthy taste comes from roasting agave, and it’s what sets a mezcal sour apart.

To keep it smooth, go for a mezcal with a lower alcohol content, around 45 percent or less. A mezcal with hints of citrus or floral notes also pairs nicely with the smokiness.

Fresh Lemon or Lime Juice

You can’t skip the fresh citrus juice here. It’s what brings brightness to the drink. Lemon adds a soft, mellow tartness, while lime gives a sharper, more vibrant kick. Freshly squeezed juice really makes a difference, keeping the cocktail fresh and lively.

Agave Syrup

For sweetness, agave syrup is the way to go. It’s naturally sweet but not overpowering, adding a gentle touch that fits perfectly with mezcal’s roots. It blends in smoothly, giving the drink a balanced sweetness that doesn’t steal the spotlight.

Egg White

Adding egg white gives this cocktail that smooth, frothy top layer and a nice, creamy feel. It turns the drink from good to great. If egg isn’t your thing, try aquafaba, the liquid from chickpeas, instead. It gives you that same frothiness without using an actual egg.

Bitters

A few dashes of bitters add a bit of depth, usually with a splash of Angostura. They bring out subtle spices that balance the sweet and sour flavors, tying the whole drink together. It’s a small addition, but it makes a big impact.

How to Make a Mezcal Sour Cocktail

Making a mezcal sour is easy with a few simple steps. We’ll focus on shaking, chilling, and garnishing to bring out the best flavors and texture in this drink.

Step One: Dry Shake Technique

We start with a dry shake, which means shaking without ice. This step blends the egg white into the cocktail, creating a smooth, foamy texture that’s essential for a mezcal sour. Add the mezcal, fresh citrus juice, agave syrup, and an egg white to a shaker. Then, shake it hard for 15 to 20 seconds.

Step Two: Second Shake with Ice

Now we add ice to the shaker to chill the drink and improve the foam. Shake for another 15 to 20 seconds, or until the shaker feels icy cold.

Step Three: Strain into a Glass

Next, pour the cocktail through a fine-mesh strainer into a chilled coupe glass. This catches any ice shards and ensures a smooth texture. The foam will settle nicely on top, giving your cocktail that signature mezcal sour look.

Step Four: Garnish

Adding a few drops of bitters on top not only balances flavors but also adds a nice aroma. You can use a toothpick to swirl the drops into simple designs, like a swirl or heart, for a decorative touch. For a pop of color and taste, try a fresh lime or lemon twist on the edge of the glass. It’s the perfect finish for this mezcal sour!

Tips for Customizing Your Mezcal Sour

One of the best things about a mezcal sour is how easy it is to make it your own. If you love that smoky flavor, go for a mezcal with a stronger smoke profile to give your drink a bold kick.

For a touch of sweetness, add a bit more agave syrup or try honey instead. Honey brings a smooth and rich finish that is just right for those with a sweet tooth.

If you are in the mood for something herbal, try muddling a bit of rosemary or thyme with the syrup. It adds a fresh twist and blends nicely with the citrus for a unique taste.

And do not forget the finishing touch. Garnish with a dried lime wheel or a fresh twist of citrus. It not only looks great but also adds a pop of color and a hint of zest.

Playing around with these little tweaks makes your mezcal sour even better and lets you find the perfect balance for your taste.

Variations on the Mezcal Sour

Looking to shake things up with your Mezcal Sour? Here are a few twists that highlight mezcal’s smoky flavor in fun, new ways.

1. Mezcal Margarita
   Switch out the tequila for mezcal, and you have yourself a Mezcal Margarita. Keeping the classic lime juice and agave syrup, this version has that smoky kick and is perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors.
2. Mezcal Mule
   If you are craving something refreshing, try a Mezcal Mule. Just mix mezcal with ginger beer and lime juice. The ginger adds a spicy pop that makes each sip crisp and refreshing.
3. Oaxaca Old Fashioned
   For a smooth, rich twist, give the Oaxaca Old Fashioned a try. Mix mezcal with agave syrup and bitters to put a smoky spin on the classic old fashioned. It is a unique way to enjoy mezcal while nodding to tradition.

Don't be afraid to experiment. A few drops of chocolate bitters add depth, or swap the lime for lemon to bring out a sharper taste. With endless ways to mix it up, you can find the perfect variation to suit any mood. Each sip offers something new to explore and enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a mezcal sour taste like?

A Mezcal Sour has a great mix of smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. The smokiness comes from the way mezcal is made, which adds a nice depth to the drink. Fresh citrus juice brings a bright, tart flavor that balances the smokiness, while a bit of agave syrup adds sweetness. The egg white on top gives it a smooth, silky texture with a frothy finish.

What’s the difference between mezcal and tequila?

Both mezcal and tequila are Mexican spirits made from agave, but they have some key differences. Tequila is made only from blue agave and is usually steamed, which gives it a smoother taste. Mezcal, on the other hand, can be made from various types of agave and is often cooked in underground pits, giving it a smoky flavor. This smoky character makes mezcal unique, especially in cocktails like the Mezcal Sour.

Can I make a mezcal sour without egg white?

Yes, you can definitely make a Mezcal Sour without egg white. The egg white creates that frothy top and creamy texture, but if you prefer a vegan option, you can use aquafaba, which is the liquid from canned chickpeas. Aquafaba gives you that same frothy texture without changing the flavor. If you skip it altogether, the drink will be a little lighter but still has that smoky, tart, and sweet balance.

How can I make a mezcal sour without egg white?

To make a Mezcal Sour without egg white, you can skip the dry shake. Just add mezcal, citrus juice, and agave syrup to a shaker with ice and shake it until chilled. Strain into your glass, and you are good to go. If you want that creamy texture, add about ¾ oz of aquafaba and use the dry shake method. It will give you the same frothy top without any animal-based ingredients.

More Cocktails to Try!

• Mezcal Paloma Cocktail Recipe
• Gin Sour Cocktail Recipe
• Best Sour Cocktails