The Oaxaca Old Fashioned
A modern classic that honors traditional Mexican spirits by swapping out the usual whiskey base for an agave split. This presentation layers the clean vegetal notes of reposado tequila with a smoky wisp of artisanal mezcal, anchored by rich nectar and spiced bitters.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Reposado tequila
- 0.5 oz Mezcal
- 1 barspoon Agave nectar
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Garnish: Flamed orange peel
Instructions
- Build the Drink: Pour the reposado tequila, mezcal, agave nectar, and bitters directly into a mixing glass.
- Chill and Dilute: Add a generous scoop of solid ice cubes and stir everything steadily for 20 to 25 seconds until the mixing glass feels completely cold to the touch.
- Strain: Place a large clear ice cube into a rocks glass and strain the chilled cocktail over it.
- Express the Peel: Hold a fresh strip of orange peel skin side down about 2 inches above the glass. Express the essential oils across the surface of the drink by giving the peel a sharp twist, then express the oils over a lit match if you want a subtle caramelized element.
- Finish: Drop the orange twist into the glass.
Bartender Tip: Using a rich agave nectar made with equal parts agave and warm water helps the sweetener incorporate instantly into cold spirits without leaving a sticky layer at the bottom of your mixing glass.
