The Smoky Blue Wave is a frozen drink with a bold mix of smoky mezcal, sweet blue curaçao, and fresh lime juice. It’s cool, colorful, and full of flavor. The smoky taste and bright citrus make a great pair, and the icy texture keeps it refreshing. This drink is perfect for hot days or when you want to serve something fun and eye-catching.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
The Smoky Blue Wave delivers a balance of smoke, citrus, and light sweetness in a frozen format. Mezcal brings an earthy, smoldering character that contrasts with the tropical orange flavor of blue curaçao. Lime juice adds sharp acidity to cut through the richness of the spirit, while agave syrup provides a subtle sweet note that rounds everything out. Blending the ingredients with ice turns the drink into a frosty, textured pour that finishes with a refreshing, smoky tang. The orange peel garnish adds a gentle aromatic lift that complements the mezcal’s depth without overpowering the drink.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a standard countertop blender capable of crushing ice until smooth. A jigger is important for measuring each component precisely too much mezcal or curaçao can throw off the balance. A citrus press or reamer will help extract the freshest lime juice. For serving, a chilled coupe glass gives the frozen drink an attractive presentation and helps maintain its cold temperature. You’ll also want a paring knife or peeler for preparing the orange peel garnish. Keep a spoon or spatula nearby to help transfer the blended drink neatly into the coupe without spillage.
Ingredients
- 2 oz mezcal
- 0.5 oz blue curaçao
- 0.75 oz lime juice
- 0.25 oz agave syrup
- 1 cup ice
Garnish:
- Orange wheel
Instructions
- Combine mezcal, blue curaçao, lime juice, agave syrup, and ice in a blender.
- Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth, slushy texture.
- Pour into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with an orange wheel.
Pro Tips
- Use a smoky mezcal with moderate intensity to keep flavors balanced
- Chill your coupe glass ahead of time for better texture retention
- Add more agave syrup if the lime is especially tart
- Express the orange peel directly over the drink for added aroma
- For a smoother blend, crush the ice slightly before blending
- Taste before pouring adjust lime or agave to your preference
- Avoid over-blending, which can water down flavor
- Substitute honey syrup for a warmer twist on sweetness
- Use clear ice if you want cleaner color and presentation
- Garnish with a dehydrated citrus wheel for a longer-lasting finish
When to Serve
The Smoky Blue Wave is ideal for late summer nights, rooftop gatherings, or mezcal-focused cocktail menus. Its frozen style makes it a natural choice for hot-weather occasions, but the smoky base also lends itself well to cooler evenings or fire-pit settings. It works equally well at casual get-togethers and themed parties where bold color and unique flavor draw attention. Serve it when you’re aiming to surprise guests with something outside the usual margarita or slush format especially those who enjoy mezcal or want a cocktail that feels a little off the beaten path.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Mezcal:
- Del Maguey Vida
- Montelobos Espadín
- Ilegal Joven
- Blue Curaçao:
- Giffard
- DeKuyper
- Senior Genuine Curaçao
- Agave Syrup:
- Wholesome Organic
- Madhava
- Tres Agaves
Similar Cocktails
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz mezcal
- 0.5 oz blue curaçao
- 0.75 oz lime juice
- 0.25 oz agave syrup
- 1 cup ice
Garnish:
- Orange wheel
Instructions
- Combine mezcal, blue curaçao, lime juice, agave syrup, and ice in a blender.
- Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth, slushy texture.
- Pour into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with an orange wheel.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use pebble ice or crushed ice for easier blending.
- Chilling your glass beforehand helps the frozen texture last longer.
- A touch more agave syrup can soften the smoky mezcal for those who prefer a mellower finish.