Mezcal Margarita

DifficultyBeginner

Shake up a bold and smoky Mezcal Margarita with this easy recipe made with mezcal, lime juice, orange liqueur, and a touch of agave. It’s a rich, flavorful take on the classic margarita — perfect for mezcal lovers and cocktail explorers.

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Yields1 Serving
Prep Time5 minsTotal Time5 mins
 2 oz mezcal (espadín for a balanced smoke)
 1 oz fresh lime juice
 ½ oz agave syrup (or to taste)
 Ice
 Optional: Salt or Tajín for rim
 Garnish: Dehydrated lime, lime wheel, or smoked salt rim
1
  1. (Optional) Rim a rocks glass with lime juice, then dip into Tajín or smoked sea salt. Fill with ice.

  2. In a shaker, combine:

    • Mezcal

    • Cointreau

    • Lime juice

    • Agave syrup

  3. Add ice and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds.

  4. Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.

  5. Garnish with a lime wheel, smoked salt, or charred citrus slice.

Pairing Suggestions
2
  • Grilled street corn (elote)

  • Chorizo tacos or barbacoa

  • Charred vegetables or mushroom skewers

  • Dark chocolate with chili or sea salt

  • Tamarind-glazed wings

The smoky, citrusy character of mezcal pairs perfectly with grilled, spiced, and umami-rich flavors.

Tips & Notes
3
  • Not all mezcal is created equal — look for 100% agave mezcal from Oaxaca, preferably espadín or tobalá for mixability.

  • Try a mezcal-tequila split base (1 oz each) if you’re new to mezcal.

  • Add a dash of orange or mole bitters for complexity.

  • Use a smoked salt or black lava salt rim for a dramatic finish.

  • Great as a food-pairing cocktail — it stands up to big, smoky, or spicy dishes.

Side Info
4

Unlike tequila (which is made only from blue agave), mezcal can be made from various types of agave and is roasted in underground pits, giving it a signature smoky aroma. The Mezcal Margarita has gained huge popularity among craft cocktail lovers who want more edge and character in their citrus-forward sips.

Ingredients

 2 oz mezcal (espadín for a balanced smoke)
 1 oz fresh lime juice
 ½ oz agave syrup (or to taste)
 Ice
 Optional: Salt or Tajín for rim
 Garnish: Dehydrated lime, lime wheel, or smoked salt rim
Mezcal Margarita