Two mezcals made from the same type of agave plant, let’s say the popular espadin agave plant, can have two distinct flavor profiles.
While I keep a well-stocked whiskey collection at home and at the office, my go-to spirit is mezcal. I love its smokiness, yes, but I also love its individuality. Two mezcals made from the same type of agave plant, let’s say the popular espadin agave plant, can have two distinct flavor profiles. One could be powered by citrus notes. The other could be spicy. Both will be refreshing. Both will also add depth to any cocktail, as you’ll find out when you make these recipes courtesy Gifts.com.
Grilled Pineapple Margarita
1 grilled pineapple wedge, plus 1 for garnish
1 ounce mezcal
2 ounces pineapple juice
chili-lime seasoning, such as Tajin
1 lime wedge
On a medium-heat fire, grill pineapple. Turn the fruit once until lightly seared on both sides, 1-2 minutes. Cut into chunks and set aside.
Muddle limes and grilled pineapple chunks in cocktail shaker, then add pineapple juice and mezcal with ice and shake well. Strain into a glass with a chili-lime seasoning on the rim (optional). Garnish with remaining grilled pineapple chunks and a slice of lime.
Basil Cranberry Julep
1 ounce mezcal
2 ounces cranberry juice
1 basil sprig, plus more for garnish
Add basil leaves to cocktail shaker and gently muddle. Add mezcal and cranberry juice into shaker with ice and shake well. Pour into a julep cup on the rocks. Garnish with additional basil leaves.
Mezcal Mai Tai
2 ounces mezcal
2 ounces rum
4 ounces pineapple juice
4 ounces cherry juice
1 Maraschino cherry, for garnish
1 orange wedge, for garnish
Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker with a lot of ice. Shake well until chilled. Strain into a glass with crushed ice. Top off the drink with maraschino cherries and an orange slice as a garnish.
Mezcal Mule
Mint, plus more for garnish
2 ounces mezcal
6 ounces ginger beer
Splash lime juice
Lime wedge, for garnish
Add mint into cocktail shaker and muddle. Add ice, mezcal, ginger beer, lime juice, and ice and shake well. Strain into Cowboys & Indians copper mug and garnish with mint (optional) and a lime wedge.
For more information on Gift.com’s mezcal cocktails, visit the company’s website. Subscribe to the forthcoming monthly Taste of the West e-newsletter below.
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