There’s a smoky revolution happening in the world of spirits—and its name is mezcal.
For years, tequila’s smoky cousin lived in the background, misunderstood and often misrepresented. But today, this bold agave spirit is experiencing a true renaissance, captivating bartenders, spirit connoisseurs, and curious newcomers with its complex, earthy depth and centuries-old production methods. While tequila is made exclusively from blue agave, mezcal—originating from Oaxaca, Mexico—can be made from more than 30 varieties of agave, each lending unique characteristics to the final product. Traditionally, the agave hearts are roasted in underground pits, then crushed by a massive volcanic stone wheel called a tahona, drawn by mule or motor, before being fermented and distilled. It’s this ancestral process that gives mezcal its signature smoky profile.
Its resurgence is tied to a growing appreciation for authentic, artisanal products—spirits that tell a story. Every bottle of mezcal reflects the land it came from, the hand-harvested agave, and the maestro mezcalero who distilled it. As drinkers move beyond mass-market flavors, they’re reaching for spirits with a sense of place.
In cocktail culture, mezcal’s versatility is sparking creativity. It adds dimension to margaritas, intrigue to negronis, and boldness to fruity or herbal pairings. Its smoky backbone allows it to play well with unexpected ingredients—like tropical fruits, fresh herbs, and even chili heat.
From upscale lounges in New York to beach bars in Tulum and neighborhood spots in Miami, mezcal is no longer niche—it’s a movement. Whether served neat, in a flight, or mixed into something unforgettable, mezcal has officially arrived.
And if you’re looking for a place to start, the Oaxacan Ember is a modern introduction to mezcal’s wild side: a vibrant, spicy, and herbaceous cocktail that feels as timeless as the spirit itself.
Oaxacan Ember
Smoky, spicy, and refreshingly herbal—this is the cocktail you’ll crave all summer long.
Ingredients:
-
1 oz Tequila
-
1 oz Mezcal
-
1 oz Pineapple Juice
-
0.5 oz Fresh Lime Juice
-
0.25–0.5 oz Simple Syrup or Agave Nectar (to taste)
-
Small handful of fresh cilantro and mint
-
1 coin-sized slice Serrano pepper
Instructions:
-
Muddle the herbs and pepper in a shaker.
-
Add tequila, mezcal, pineapple juice, lime juice, and sweetener.
-
Shake with ice until well chilled.
-
Fine strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a sprig of mint or cilantro.