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The Oaxacan Old Fashioned

Oaxacan Old Fashioned Cocktail Garnish with a orange peel and a sphere ice cube

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

  1. Place a large ice cube in a lowball glass.
  2. In a mixing glass, combine mezcal, agave syrup, and orange bitters.
  3. Stir the mixture gently for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute slightly.
  4. Strain the mixture over the ice cube in the lowball glass.
  5. Garnish with an orange twist.
  6. Serve and enjoy the depth of flavors.
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A delicious Oaxacan Old Fashioned cocktail set upon a table ready to be enjoyed.

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.

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Oaxacan Old Fashioned Cocktail Garnish with a orange peel and a sphere ice cube

The Oaxacan Old Fashioned

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
5 from 3 votes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: agave syrup, mezcal, Oaxacan Old Fashioned, orange bitters
Servings: 1
Author: Paul Kushner
Oaxacan Old Fashioneds are a mezcal-infused take on the traditional drink that feature agave syrup, orange zest, and smokey flavor.features

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

Can tequila be used in place of mezcal?

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.
Tried this recipe?Leave a comment and let us know how it was!
The Oaxacan Old Fashioned
Please drink responsibly, be fully accountable with your alcohol consumption, and show others respect.
5 from 3 votes (3 ratings without comment)

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Paul Kushner

Written by Paul Kushner

Founder and CEO of MyBartender. Graduated from Penn State University. He always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. His restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time he turned 17 he was serving tables, and by 19 he was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.

In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, Paul opened his first restaurant/bar. In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

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