The Mezcalita, also known as the Mezcal Margarita, is a smoky and spicy twist on the classic margarita. Made with smoky mezcal, triple sec, and fresh citrus juice, this cocktail for a summer day or any time you want to add a little spice to your drink. Best of all, it only takes a few minutes to make!
If you’re a cocktail lover, I have tons of refreshing cocktails that you can also check out. If you’re particularly into margaritas, you should try my Mermaid Water Margarita or Midori Melon Margarita for unique and refreshing variations on the classic.
Or, for more mezcal-based cocktails, try my Mezcal Manhattan or Mezcal Tonic. And, my Mezcal Sour is a can’t miss cocktail.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy – it’s a simple cocktail to make with just a few common ingredients that can be found at any liquor or grocery store.
- Delicious smoky flavor – the mezcal adds a unique smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the tartness of the lime juice and the sweetness of the orange juice.
- Great for a crowd – you can easily make a whole pitcher of this cocktail for your next party or gathering. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for this Mezcalita recipe.
What is a Mezcalita and Mezcal?
A Mezcalita is a variation of the classic Margarita cocktail that uses mezcal instead of tequila. Mezcal is a type of distilled spirit made from agave plants, like tequila, but typically with a smokier flavor profile. The Mezcalita usually includes fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, and/or orange juice, just like a traditional Margarita, but with a deeper and more complex flavor profile due to the smoked flavor.
Ingredient Notes
Mezcal: For a good quality mezcal, look for brands like Del Maguey, Ilegal, or Montelobos. These brands are known for their high quality and unique flavors. I used Del Maguey in my cocktail, and it turned out perfect.
Triple sec: Cointreau is the best option for a triple sec, in my opinion, as it is much more flavorful compared to other brands. Grand Marnier is another high-quality orange liqueur that can also be used. Grand Marnier is a brandy-based orange liqueur and would also complement the flavor of the mezcal.
Lime and orange juice: Freshly squeezed citrus juice is preferred as it by far tastes best in cocktails, especially cocktails like this that rely on citrus juice as part of the main flavor profile. If you don’t have fresh, opt for a bottled variety that is 100% juice and not from concentrate.
Tajin seasoning for rim: Tajin is a Mexican seasoning blend that includes chili powder, lime, and salt. It’s a great addition to the rim of a Mezcalita to add some extra flavor and spice. You can find it in the Latin section of the grocery store or your local Latin market. As with just about everything, you can also get Tajin on Amazon.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Optional pre-step: To rim the glass for your Mezcalita, start by rubbing a lime wedge around the rim of the glass. Then, dip the rim into a shallow dish of tajin.
Step 1: Add the mezcal, triple sec, orange juice, and lime juice to a cocktail shaker.
Step 2: Add ice and shake until well chilled. Strain into the cocktail glass.
Step 3: Garnish with a slice of orange.
Variations
- For a twist on the classic Mezcalita, try swapping out the orange juice for pineapple juice, peach nectar, or grapefruit juice.
- If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can rim the glass with sugar. You can also add a touch of agave syrup or simple syrup.
- For a classic Mezcalita, rim the glass with salt instead of tajin.
- To add more complexity, try add a few dashes of orange bitters.
FAQ
Can I make a batch of Mezcalitas?
Yes, you can make a batch of Mezcalitas. Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you want to make and mix them together in a pitcher or large container. I’ve included measurements for 8 Mezcalitas in the notes section of the recipe.
Can I make a batch of Mezcalitas in advance of when I need them?
Absolutely, you can make a batch of Mezcalitas in advance. You can mix everything in a big pitcher and keep it in the fridge for up to 1 day in advance of when you need it.
What is tajin?
Tajin is a Mexican seasoning made from chili peppers, lime, and salt. It is often used to rim the glass of a cocktail and is absolutely delicious sprinkled on fresh fruits like watermelon, pineapple, or mango. You can find it in the Latin section of the grocery store, your local Latin grocery store, or you can buy Tajin on Amazon.
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📖 Recipe
Mezcalita Recipe
Ingredients
- Tajin or salt for rim (optional)
- 1 ½ ounces mezcal
- 1 ounce triple sec (recommend Cointreau)
- 1 ounce lime juice
- 1 ounce orange juice
- Orange slice for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Optional pre-step: Rub the fleshy part of a lime wedge around the rim of the glass. Roll the rim in tajin or salt.
- Add the mezcal, triple sec, lime juice, and orange juice to a cocktail shaker.
- Add ice and shake well. Strain into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with an orange slice, if desired.
Notes
- 1 ½ cups mezcal
- 1 cup triple sec (recommend Cointreau)
- 1 cup lime juice
- 1 cup orange juice
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