Winter is a season of crisp air, cozy sweaters, and warm drinks.
As a bartender, it's always exciting to experiment with new flavors and create cocktails that perfectly capture the essence of the season. And what better way to do that than with mezcal?
Mezcal is a smoky, complex spirit that is perfect for the colder months. It's made from the agave plant, just like tequila, but the production process is different, giving it a distinct flavor profile.
Mezcal is often associated with summer cocktails, but it's also an excellent base for winter drinks.
One of the best things about mezcal is its versatility. It can be paired with a variety of ingredients, from citrus to spices to herbs. This makes it an ideal spirit for creating winter cocktails that are both warming and refreshing.
Whether you're looking for something cozy to sip by the fireplace or a bold, spicy drink to warm you up on a chilly night out, mezcal has got you covered.
In this blog post, we'll be exploring some of the best winter mezcal cocktail recipes out there. From classic mezcal drinks with a winter twist to innovative new creations, we'll be taking a deep dive into the world of mezcal cocktails.
So sit back, grab a mezcal cocktail, and let's explore the delicious possibilities of this versatile spirit.
1. Mezcal Sunset Cocktail
The Mezcal Sunset Cocktail is a perfect winter drink that will warm you up on a cold evening. This cocktail is a twist on the classic Tequila Sunrise, but with a smoky and complex flavor of mezcal. The addition of pomegranate molasses gives it a darker, broodier tone, resembling the muted brilliance of a sunset.
The cocktail is topped with sparkling wine, which adds a festive touch to the drink. It's a perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavors that will leave you wanting more. If you're a fan of mezcal or looking for a unique winter cocktail, the Mezcal Sunset Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
2. Smokey Blackberry Mezcal Cocktail
If you're a fan of mezcal, you'll definitely want to try the Smokey Blackberry Mezcal Cocktail. This winter cocktail recipe features a sweet blackberry puree mixed with lime juice, mezcal, and angostura bitters.
The mezcal gives the drink a deliciously smokey flavor, while the blackberry adds a touch of sweetness. The cocktail can be served over blackberry ice and garnished with fresh blackberries. It's a perfect drink for those who love bold, complex flavors and want to try something new this winter season.
3. Pomegranate Mezcal Margarita
The Pomegranate Mezcal Margarita is a winter cocktail that is sure to warm you up. This twist on the classic margarita is made with smoky Mezcal, triple sec, and pomegranate juice, which adds a fruity and tangy flavor to the drink.
The smoky flavor of the Mezcal is perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the pomegranate juice, making it a unique and delicious cocktail. This drink is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting this winter season. So, if you're looking for a cocktail that is both refreshing and warming, the Pomegranate Mezcal Margarita is definitely worth a try.
4. Oaxaca Old Fashioned
The Oaxaca Old Fashioned is a modern classic cocktail that is perfect for the winter season. This mezcal-based drink is a spin on the classic Old Fashioned, featuring tequila, agave, and chocolate bitters. The smoky flavor of mezcal adds a nuanced touch to the cocktail, making it a unique and flavorful choice for those who love mezcal.
The Oaxaca Old Fashioned is a simple stirred cocktail that is easy to make, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced bartenders. If you're looking for a winter cocktail that is both classic and fresh, the Oaxaca Old Fashioned is definitely worth a try.
5. Smoky Mezcal Negroni
The Smoky Mezcal Negroni is a unique twist on the classic Negroni cocktail. Made with mezcal, Campari, sweet vermouth, and a touch of smoked simple syrup, this cocktail has a distinct smoky flavor that is perfect for winter nights.
The mezcal's smokiness comes from a slow roasting process of the agave plant's hearts, which gives it a unique and complex taste. The charred orange garnish adds a touch of elegance to the drink, making it perfect for any cocktail party. If you're looking for a winter cocktail that's sure to impress, the Smoky Mezcal Negroni is definitely worth a try.
6. Blood Orange Mezcal Margarita
The Blood Orange Mezcal Margarita is a perfect winter cocktail that will warm you up from the inside. It's a delicious blend of smoky mezcal, sweet and tangy blood orange, and a hint of lime. The Tajin rim adds a touch of spice to the drink, making it a perfect balance of flavors.
This cocktail is a great way to use up the last of the blood oranges of the season and is a refreshing change from the usual tequila-based margarita. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail to try this winter, the Blood Orange Mezcal Margarita is definitely worth a shot.
7. Frozen Paloma Cocktail
The Frozen Paloma Cocktail is a refreshing and citrusy drink that is perfect for any winter occasion. Made with grapefruit soda, grapefruit juice, and mezcal, this cocktail is served with a salty rim that perfectly balances the sweetness of the grapefruit.
What sets this cocktail apart is the addition of ice, which gives it a slushy texture that is perfect for sipping on a hot day. The Tajin rim adds a spicy kick that perfectly complements the sweetness of the grapefruit. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves citrusy cocktails and is looking for a refreshing drink to enjoy during the winter months.
8. Smoky Spiked Coconut Chai Tea Latte
The Smoky Spiked Coconut Chai Tea Latte is a unique Winter Mezcal Cocktail that combines coconut milk, chai tea, pure maple syrup, and a splash of smoky mezcal and tequila.
The smokiness of the mezcal adds a unique twist to the traditional chai tea latte, making it perfect for those who love a little bit of spice and smokiness in their cocktails. It's easy to make and perfect for snuggling up on a cold winter night.
