Paul Kushner
The Oaxacan Old Fashioned is a beverage that combines both old and new traditions. This beverage is an excellent choice for individuals who enjoy a good story in their glass. As a bartender who has poured innumerable drinks, I have a special place in my heart for this. It combines the smokey richness of mezcal with the sweetness of agave nectar to create a new take on the classic Old Fashioned. Trust me, this is a drink to appreciate.
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Tasting Notes
The Oaxacan Old Fashioned is a flavor-filled adventure. The smokey aroma of mezcal is immediately apparent, wonderfully balanced with the gentle sweetness of agave syrup. The orange bitters give a depth of complexity, with a zesty brightness that dances over the palate. The finish is smooth and lasting, leaving you with a warm, smokey sensation.
Equipment and Glassware
To make the ideal Oaxacan Old Fashioned, you’ll need a few basic tools, including a mixing glass for combining your ingredients, a bar spoon for stirring, a strainer for ensuring a smooth pour, and, most importantly, a large ice cube mold for that single, perfect cube. In terms of glassware, a classic lowball glass is an excellent option, as it enhances the drinking experience with its traditional look and feel.
Ingredients
- 2 oz. Mezcal
- 1/2 oz. Agave syrup
- 2 dashes of orange bitters
- Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions
- Place a large ice cube in a lowball glass.
- In a mixing glass, combine mezcal, agave syrup, and orange bitters.
- Stir the mixture gently for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute slightly.
- Strain the mixture over the ice cube in the lowball glass.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
- Serve and enjoy the depth of flavors.
Pro Tips
Chill your glass ahead of time for the best Oaxacan Old Fashioned. This simple technique helps to keep your drink cooler for longer. Also, while adding the orange twist, strain it over the glass to release the oils before rubbing the peel against the rim. This improves the drink’s scent and flavor.
When to Serve
The Oaxacan Old Fashioned is adaptable, great for a calm evening at home or a classy choice at social occasions. It’s especially appropriate as an after-dinner drink, where the complex flavors may be properly experienced without rushing.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For mezcal, I recommend Del Maguey Vida or Montelobos because of their superb quality and smokey depth. To achieve the finest flavor profile for your cocktail, choose a 100% pure agave syrup brand.
Similar Cocktails
- Classic Old Fashioned: The traditional Bourbon-based forefather of our Oaxacan twist.
- Mezcalita: blends the smoky depth of mezcal with fresh lime juice and orange liqueur, offering a zesty, refreshing twist on the classic margarita.
- Negroni: A perfectly balanced cocktail, combining gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari for a bitter, yet sweet, sophisticated sip.
- Mezcal Manhattan: A mezcal and agave nectar version of the Manhattan, offering a smoky-sweet complexity.
- Tequila Sunrise: For a simpler yet refreshing option with tequila at its core.
History
The Oaxacan Old Fashioned is a relatively recent cocktail that emerged from the creative imaginations of mixologists seeking to combine traditional and current flavors. It represents mezcal’s expanding appeal outside of Mexico, highlighting the spirit’s versatility and complex flavor character.
Ingredients
- 2 oz. Mezcal
- 1/2 oz. Agave syrup
- 2 dashes of orange bitters
- Orange twist for garnish
Instructions
- Place a large ice cube in a lowball glass.
- In a mixing glass, combine mezcal, agave syrup, and orange bitters.
- Stir the mixture gently for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute slightly.
- Strain the mixture over the ice cube in the lowball glass.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
- Serve and enjoy the depth of flavors.
Notes
Yes, tequila can be used to achieve a less smoky flavor, but mezcal is essential for an authentic experience. How sweet is it?
The agave syrup gives the cocktail a moderate sweetness, while the smokey aromas of mezcal take center stage. Can it be made without orange bitters?
While orange bitters offer depth, you can experiment with various bitters to create your own flavor profile.
