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Cocktail Maestro

Oaxaca Old Fashioned

The Oaxaca Old Fashioned is a smoky, sultry riff on the classic Old Fashioned, blending the rich depth of reposado tequila with the subtle, smoky intrigue of mezcal. This modern classic brings together Mexican spirits and traditional American cocktail technique, creating a drink that's both familiar and delightfully new. Each sip offers a harmonious balance of agave sweetness, citrusy bitters, and a whisper of smoke, making it an unforgettable experience for adventurous palates.

4 minutesMedium1 serving
Oaxaca Old Fashioned
Featured
Ingredients
1 serving
  • Reposado Tequila
    45 ml (1.5 oz)
    Choose a quality reposado for depth and smoothness.
  • Mezcal
    15 ml (0.5 oz)
    Opt for a balanced mezcal with gentle smoke.
  • Agave Syrup
    1 tsp
    Or substitute with simple syrup if needed.
  • Angostura Bitters
    2 dashes
    Classic bitters for balance.
  • Orange Bitters
    1 dash
    Adds a bright, citrusy note.
Tools Needed
  • Mixing glass
  • Bar spoon
  • Jigger
  • Strainer
  • Old Fashioned glass
  • Peeler
Instructions
  1. Add the tequila, mezcal, agave syrup, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters to a mixing glass filled with ice.

  2. Stir gently for about 20-30 seconds until well chilled and diluted.

  3. Strain into an Old Fashioned glass over a large ice cube.

  4. Express an orange peel over the drink to release its oils, then use it as a garnish.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail
  • Smoky complexity from mezcal makes every sip intriguing.
  • The agave spirits offer a unique twist on a beloved classic.
  • Perfect balance of sweetness, bitterness, and smoke.
  • Easy to customize—adjust the spirits for more or less smoke.
  • The orange twist garnish adds a bright aromatic finish.
History & Origin

The Oaxaca Old Fashioned was crafted in 2007 by Phil Ward at New York City's famed Death & Co cocktail bar. Ward wanted to pay homage to the beloved Old Fashioned while showcasing the bold flavors of Mexico. By splitting the base between reposado tequila and mezcal, he introduced a new generation of drinkers to the world of agave spirits. The drink quickly became a modern classic, celebrated for its simplicity and the way it bridges two rich cocktail traditions.

Garnish

Expressed orange peel—twisted over the drink to release aromatic oils, then placed in the glass. It brightens the nose and complements the agave and smoke.

Nutrition Info

Roughly 160 calories per serving. Contains minimal fat and protein. Carbohydrates primarily from agave syrup (about 4g).

Frequently Asked Questions

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