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.
(Optional) Rim a rocks glass with lime juice, then dip into Tajín or smoked sea salt. Fill with ice.
In a shaker, combine:
Mezcal
Cointreau
Lime juice
Agave syrup
Add ice and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds.
Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
Garnish with a lime wheel, smoked salt, or charred citrus slice.
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.
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.
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.
1 servings