Paul Kushner
The Basil Cucumber Mezcalita is a fresh and smoky cocktail that blends earthy, herbal notes with a crisp finish. Made with mezcal, muddled cucumber, fresh basil, and lime juice, it’s cool and refreshing with just the right amount of edge. The mezcal brings a smoky backbone, while the cucumber and basil keep it light and clean. It’s perfect for warm days or whenever you want something that feels a little outside the usual. Easy to sip and full of character, the Basil Cucumber Mezcalita strikes a nice balance between bold and fresh without going over the top.
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Tasting Notes
This Basil Cucumber Mezcalita is smoky, bright, and herbaceous with a refreshing twist. The mezcal gives it a smoky backbone, while the cucumber juice keeps things cool and crisp. Lime juice adds tartness, and agave syrup balances it out with natural sweetness. Orange liqueur adds a citrusy layer that blends smoothly with the herbal kick from the muddled basil. It’s bold and fresh at the same time, with a smooth finish that lingers just enough.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a shaker, muddler, jigger, and a fine strainer. A citrus press is helpful for juicing the lime. Serve it in a rocks glass over fresh ice. A bar spoon or cocktail pick can help with placing garnishes like a cucumber slice or basil leaf. Chilling the glass ahead of time is a nice touch, especially on hot days.
Ingredients
- 2 oz mezcal
- 1 oz orange liqueur
- 0.75 oz lime juice
- 0.75 oz cucumber juice
- 0.5 oz agave syrup
- 3–4 fresh basil leaves
- Garnish: basil leaf or cucumber slice (optional)
Instructions
- Add the basil leaves, agave syrup, and lime juice to a cocktail shaker.
- Muddle gently to release the basil’s flavor.
- Add the cucumber juice, orange liqueur, and mezcal.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake well—about 15 seconds.
- Double strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a basil leaf or cucumber slice, if you like.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh basil—just enough to bring flavor without turning the drink bitter.
- Shake well to blend the cucumber juice and mezcal.
- Double strain to keep out basil bits and pulp for a cleaner look and feel.
- Adjust the agave syrup based on the sweetness of your orange liqueur.
- For even more aroma, slap a basil leaf before garnishing.
When to Serve
This Basil Cucumber Mezcalita is great for warm weather, outdoor hangouts, or anytime you want a margarita-style drink with a fresh twist. It’s ideal for mezcal fans and works well at brunch, happy hour, or as a signature drink for dinner parties with bold flavors.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Go with a smooth, slightly smoky mezcal like Del Maguey Vida or Montelobos.
- For orange liqueur, Cointreau or Grand Marnier add good depth.
- Use fresh cucumber juice (pressed or blended and strained), and always go with fresh lime juice for the best balance.
- Pure agave syrup keeps the sweetness clean and natural.
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 2 oz mezcal
- 1 oz orange liqueur
- 0.75 oz lime juice
- 0.75 oz cucumber juice
- 0.5 oz agave syrup
- 3 –4 fresh basil leaves
- Garnish: basil leaf or cucumber slice optional
Instructions
- Add the basil leaves, agave syrup, and lime juice to a cocktail shaker.
- Muddle gently to release the basil’s flavor.
- Add the cucumber juice, orange liqueur, and mezcal.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake well—about 15 seconds.
- Double strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a basil leaf or cucumber slice, if you like.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Don’t over-muddle the basil—just enough to bruise it and bring out the aroma.
- For extra flavor, try lightly salting the cucumber juice before mixing.
- If you want more smoke, go for a more robust mezcal; if not, choose a lighter one.
