Is it necessary to double strain the cocktail?

Double straining ensures a smooth, silky drink free of ice shards and pulp, making for a more polished presentation and mouthfeel.

Can I substitute mezcal with another spirit?

You can substitute mezcal with tequila for a less smoky flavor, but the distinctive character of the Division Bell comes from mezcal’s smokiness. Try to use a joven (unaged) mezcal for the best results.

What if I don’t have Aperol?

If you’re out of Aperol, you can try substituting it with another orange or bitter liqueur, like Campari (for more bitterness) or Select Aperitivo. The flavor will change but the cocktail will remain balanced and delicious.

How do I make a good grapefruit twist?

Use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to cut a long, thin strip of grapefruit peel, avoiding the bitter white pith. Gently twist it over the drink to release aromatic oils, then drop it into the glass for garnish.

Division Bell

Name: Division Bell
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1 serving
Cuisine: Cocktail
Ingredients: 1 oz Mezcal; 0.75 oz Aperol; 0.5 oz Maraschino liqueur; 0.75 oz Fresh lime juice; 1 oz Grapefruit twist

The Division Bell is a vibrant and modern mezcal cocktail with a perfect balance of smoky, citrusy, and bitter notes. With its sunset-orange hue and lively flavor profile, this drink captures the bold spirit of contemporary cocktail culture while paying homage to classic influences. It's an ideal choice for adventurous drinkers looking for something refreshing, complex, and utterly memorable.

5 minutesMedium1 serving

Featured

Ingredients

1 serving

Mezcal
30 ml (1 oz)
Choose a joven mezcal with a balanced smoky profile
Aperol
25 ml (0.75 oz)
Adds bittersweet, citrusy notes and color
Maraschino liqueur
15 ml (0.5 oz)
Luxardo is the classic choice
Fresh lime juice
25 ml (0.75 oz)
Fresh-squeezed for brightness
Grapefruit twist
30 ml (1 oz)
For garnish (use a strip, not 1 oz liquid)

Tools Needed

Cocktail shaker
Strainer
Jigger
Citrus juicer
Fine mesh strainer (optional)

Instructions

Add mezcal, Aperol, maraschino liqueur, and fresh lime juice into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Shake vigorously for about 12-15 seconds until well-chilled.
Double strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass to ensure a smooth texture.
Express the oils from a grapefruit twist over the drink, then drop the twist into the glass as garnish.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail

Balances smoky, citrus, and bitter flavors perfectly
Features mezcal, a unique and complex spirit
Eye-catching color and elegant presentation
Easy to customize with different amari or liqueurs
Modern classic with a fascinating backstory

History & Origin

The Division Bell was created in 2009 by bartender Phil Ward at Mayahuel, a now-legendary mezcal bar in New York City. Ward, renowned for his innovative approach to agave spirits, crafted this drink as a mezcal riff on the classic Last Word. Its name is a nod to the Pink Floyd album, reflecting both the drink’s modern edge and a playful sense of nostalgia. The Division Bell rapidly gained a cult following among cocktail enthusiasts and helped cement mezcal’s reputation as a serious spirit for mixology.

Garnish

A grapefruit twist, expressed over the drink and then added, highlights the cocktail’s citrus notes and adds an enticing aroma.

Nutrition Info

Approximate per serving: 160 calories, 0g fat, 6g carbohydrates, 0g protein. Contains alcohol and natural sugars from liqueurs and citrus.

Frequently Asked Questions

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