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This sweet, smoky and citrusy Marg-esque cocktail proves orange is the new lime.
About the cocktail
The Mezcalita is the sultry sipper you’ll want at your next fiesta. Similar to a Margarita – it simply swaps the usual tequila for mezcal instead – there are plenty of versions out in the wild. And this one is slightly sweeter and more orange-forward than your usual lime-based Marg, with a delectable smoky edge. The Mezcalita leans heavily into its smouldering star spirit, with the zesty sour edge of fresh citrus tarting things up. Spicy, smoky and complex, mezcal has been gaining a steady following in recent years, stepping out from behind its popular older sibling, tequila. If you’re newer to Mexican spirits, tequila is, in fact, a type of mezcal, but it can only be made from the Blue Weber agave. Mezcal, meanwhile, can be made from around 40 different species. Flavour-wise, master mezcaleros bury the agave in pits of hot rocks and smoke them, slowly braising the heart of the plant (or piña) over several days to achieve that hallmark earthy smokiness. For this cocktail, we’ve found the best base is equal parts lime juice, orange juice and agave syrup with 45mL of mezcal. The sweetness of the orange softens the harder edges of the mezcal, balanced by the juicy cooked-fruit notes of the agave – each element playing a vital role in the overall Mezcalita masterpiece.
Ingredients
45mL mezcal 15mL lime juice 15mL orange juice 15mL agave syrup Pinch salt Glass: rocks or old fashioned Garnish: lime wedge and salt for glass rim, plus orange and lime wheels
Method
Prep your glass by running a lime wedge around the rim and rolling it in salt on a plate, then pop it in the fridge to chill until you're ready to pour Add all ingredients into a cocktail shaker with cubed ice Shake until the outside of the tin is frosty Carefully strain the mixture into your prepped glass over fresh ice Finish with fresh orange and lime wheels to garnish
Dan’s top tips
Mezcal is so complex and layered, it makes magic as a cocktail base. With its bold character and zingy citrus edge, the Mezcalita is just as versatile as its Marg counterparts, allowing loads of flavour combinations to suit your tastes. Using the classic recipe to riff off, you can experiment with a range of twists, from sweeter watermelon or pineapple-infused versions, to spicier Tabasco-laced Spicy Marg-style takes. You can also sweeten things up by subbing out the agave for your favourite liquor. Think peach, triple sec, apricot or melon with a dash of sugar where desired. And if you’re feeling a little festive, the Trifle Mezcalita is the perfect fresh take that packs a serious flavour punch. To kick the spice up an extra notch, rim your glass with chilli salt or Tajín – a common Mexican seasoning of chilli, lime and salt – and let the citric acid up the sour ante. As mentioned, you can add a dash of Tabasco or even a cheeky slice of jalapeño as a spicy garnish to complement the delicious smoky flavours.
image credits: Shelley Horan (photography), Bridget Wald (styling)
