6 Mezcal Cocktails You Can Make at Home

Originally Published August 2021, Updated March 2024

Mezcal – you may not know what it is, but there is a chance you’ve already tried it!

It is a rising star in the spirits category. You can find it on almost any craft cocktail menu and it has also caught the attention of some celebrities. That's why we're giving you the inside scoop on how to mix this smoky spirit into a homemade cocktail. But before we get too far down the mixology rabbit hole, lets dig into what mezcal actually is.

Mezcal is an umbrella term for agave-based spirits like tequila. This means all tequilas are mezcals, but not all mezcals are tequila (think bourbon vs. whiskey).

There are three primary differences between what’s labeled as mezcal and tequila. The first distinction is the type of agave that is used to produce the spirit. Mezcal can be any spirit distilled from the agave plant, and there are over 30 agave species that can be used to make it. In contrast, tequila is made exclusively with Weber Blue Agave. The second qualifying characteristic is the origin of production. Tequila production is heavily regulated and specifies that the spirit can only be made within the Mexican state of Jalisco. Mezcal can be produced all over the country of Mexico, but most commonly is exported from the Oaxaca region. Finally, the two spirits are made differently. The agave plant is baked to produce tequila and smoked to make mezcal.

While often compared to tequila, mezcal has a much different flavor profile. You'll enjoy smoky nuances, similar to a peated Scotch, that are the result of how the agave is fermented. The production of mezcal is very traditional and often made by small-scale distillers. The process begins with pits dug into the earth, called “palenques,” which are lined with lava rocks. The rocks are heated for 24 hours before the heart of the agave plant is added. This portion of the agave used to make mezcal is called the piña, which is smoked and cooked in these pits for about three days. Once cooked, they are crushed and mashed by a stone wheel and are fermented in barrels. Some mezcal producers have turned to more modern techniques, but this traditional method is still used by most artisanal distillers in order to retain the character and signature smokiness of the spirit.

So, the next time you step in the role as an at-home bartender, or are just looking to change up the flavor of your margarita, try introducing mezcal. It fits in seamlessly as a spirit substitute for many drinks but if you need a little inspiration, here are six mezcal cocktails you can make at home.

Mezcal Old Fashioned

Due to its smoky flavor, mezcal is a great substitute for cocktails that generally call for whiskey or bourbon.

Oaxacan Margarita

Looking to add a unique flavor to a traditional, three-ingredient margarita? Try Bozal Ensamble Mezcal which features intense flavors with rich earth tones and a savory smokiness.

Cranstonian

Hosting a group of pop culture fanatics? Try Dos Hombres Mezcal Artesanal. This mezcal is created by the award-winning stars of Breaking Bad, Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul.

Vida Margarita

Adding a muddled jalapeño to a recipe allows the juices to mix with the spirits and creates a flavorful kick to the drink.

Smokey Casa Margarita

Expressing the peel of an acidic fruit, like an orange, releases fragrant oils into your drink. It adds extra citrus flavor to the cocktail without adding sweetness – making it the perfect addition to drinks calling for mezcal.

Smokin’ Bloody Maria

Bloody Marias are great, but have you ever tried a Smokin’ Bloody Maria? It’s a game changer. Just add a half ounce of Los Rijos Maguey Espadin Joven Mezcal for a touch of smokiness to your next brunch drink.

Need more recipes to fuel your new mezcal obsession? We don’t blame you! Check out all our mezcal cocktail recipes here.

Pricing and selection may vary by location.

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