Paul Kushner
The Soumaya is a dynamic cocktail that strikes a perfect balance between bold flavors and refreshing acidity. The crisp, clean notes of Cazadores Blanco tequila set the stage, while the smoky depth of Del Maguey Mezcal adds a rich complexity. Fresh ginger brings a warm spice that lingers on the palate, while agave syrup enhances the drink’s natural sweetness without overpowering it. A squeeze of lime juice ties everything together with a bright, citrusy lift.
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This Soumaya cocktail offers a seamless fusion of heat, smoke, and tangy refreshment, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate layered, well-crafted drinks.
Tasting Notes
To prepare the Soumaya, gather a cocktail shaker, muddler, and strainer to ensure a well-balanced and expertly mixed drink. Start by muddling fresh ginger in the shaker to release its warm, spicy essence. Add Cazadores Blanco Tequila, Del Maguey Mezcal, agave syrup, and fresh lime juice, then shake well with ice to blend the flavors smoothly.
Strain the mixture into a rocks glass over fresh ice, allowing the drink’s smoky and spicy aromas to fully develop. The wide rim of the rocks glass enhances the sensory experience, making each sip bold, refreshing, and perfectly balanced.
Equipment and Glassware
To craft the Soumaya cocktail, gather a cocktail shaker, muddler, and strainer to ensure a well-mixed and flavorful drink. Begin by muddling fresh ginger in the shaker to release its warm spice, then add Cazadores Blanco Tequila, Del Maguey Mezcal, agave syrup, and fresh lime juice. Shake well with ice to blend the flavors and create a balanced, chilled cocktail.
Strain the mixture into a rocks glass over fresh ice—the wide opening of the glass allows the smoky and spicy aromas to fully develop. This enhances the overall experience, making each sip bold, complex, and refreshingly smooth.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Cazadores Blanco Tequila
- 0.75 oz Del Maguey Mezcal
- 0.5 oz agave syrup
- 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
- 3-4 slices fresh ginger
- Salt (for rimming)
- Candied ginger (for garnish)
- Lime wheel or thin ginger slice (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass: Run a lime wedge along the rim of a rocks glass, then dip it into salt for a lightly seasoned edge. Fill the glass with ice and set aside.
- Muddle the Ginger: In a cocktail shaker, combine fresh ginger slices and agave syrup. Muddle thoroughly to release the ginger’s spice and aroma.
- Mix the Cocktail: Add tequila, mezcal, and fresh lime juice to the shaker.
- Shake: Fill with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled, about 15 seconds.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into the prepared rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish: Add a piece of candied ginger on a cocktail pick for a hint of sweetness. Optionally, include a lime wheel or a thin slice of fresh ginger for added aroma.
Pro Tips
- For a stronger ginger flavor, let the ginger sit in the agave syrup for a few minutes before muddling.
- Use high-quality, freshly squeezed lime juice for the best balance of acidity.
- For a smokier version, slightly increase the mezcal ratio or rim the glass with smoked salt.
- Double strain to remove ginger pulp for a smoother texture.
When to Serve
The Soumaya cocktail is an excellent choice for mezcal and tequila enthusiasts who appreciate a smoky, spicy, and refreshing drink. Its balanced combination of earthy agave flavors, warming ginger spice, and bright citrus makes it an exciting option for a variety of occasions.
Whether served as a pre-dinner cocktail to awaken the palate, an elevated happy hour selection, or a bold addition to a tequila tasting, this drink stands out with its depth and complexity. The interplay of smoky mezcal, crisp tequila, and zesty lime ensures a dynamic sip that’s both invigorating and satisfying.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Tequila: Cazadores Blanco, Espolòn Blanco, or Fortaleza Blanco
- Mezcal: Del Maguey Vida, Montelobos, or Ilegal Joven
- Agave Syrup: Organic agave syrup for a clean, natural sweetness
Similar Cocktails
- Spiced Pear Margarita
- Blue Mezcalita
- Smoky Tamarind Margarita
- Picante Cocktail
- Spicy Green Margarita
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Cazadores Blanco Tequila
- 0.75 oz Del Maguey Mezcal
- 0.5 oz agave syrup
- 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
- 3-4 slices fresh ginger
- Salt for rimming
- Candied ginger for garnish
- Lime wheel or thin ginger slice optional garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass: Run a lime wedge along the rim of a rocks glass, then dip it into salt for a lightly seasoned edge. Fill the glass with ice and set aside.
- Muddle the Ginger: In a cocktail shaker, combine fresh ginger slices and agave syrup. Muddle thoroughly to release the ginger’s spice and aroma.
- Mix the Cocktail: Add tequila, mezcal, and fresh lime juice to the shaker.
- Shake: Fill with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled, about 15 seconds.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into the prepared rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish: Add a piece of candied ginger on a cocktail pick for a hint of sweetness. Optionally, include a lime wheel or a thin slice of fresh ginger for added aroma.
Notes
Pro Tips
- For a stronger ginger flavor, let the ginger sit in the agave syrup for a few minutes before muddling.
- Use high-quality, freshly squeezed lime juice for the best balance of acidity.
- For a smokier version, slightly increase the mezcal ratio or rim the glass with smoked salt.
- Double strain to remove ginger pulp for a smoother texture.
