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This grapefruit and Mezcal cocktail adds the perfect hint of sweetness with a pop of fizz for the ultimate sip-worthy drink!
Grapefruit Mezcal Cocktail
If you're a Mezcal Paloma fan like I am, this simpler and fizzier grapefruit and Mezcal cocktail recipe will hit the spot every time.
As the designated bartender among my friends, it's always a toss-up whether we'll be mixing up a mezcal cocktail or one of these popular tequila cocktails; and when I proposed this drink to test out a new Mezcal, we had a clear winner!
What does a Mezcal & Grapefruit Cocktail Taste Like
Since Mezcal tequila has a smoky flavor to it and grapefruit offers a natural citrus sweetness, this drink tastes a little sweet with bubbly hints of smokiness; but ultimately, it's the kind of citrusy and refreshing cocktail that will have you wanting more.
Ingredients
The amounts to this refreshing grapefruit and Mezcal cocktail are in the recipe card below, but before you make any swaps, here is why each ingredient is used:
- Mezcal: use your favorite brand; if you don't have one, I recommend some great options down below! If all you have is classic tequila, try this Grapefruit Margarita instead.
- Grapefruit juice: freshly squeezed is worth it for this recipe, store-bought works just as well.
- Sparkling mixer: adds volume to this drink and gives it a light, bubbly fizz.
- Garnishes: salt (optional) for rimming, grapefruit, lime and orange wedges.
Using Citrus Soda
I recommend using citrus-flavored sodas like Fresca or citrus-flavored sparkling water, such as Topo Chico, for this cocktail. Highly sweetened citrus sodas like Fanta will overpower this drink and lose most of its authentic flavor.
How to Make a Grapefruit and Mezcal Cocktail
Grab your Mezcal, and let's get stirring! The detailed steps for making this cocktail are in the recipe card below; here are some additional tips in each to ensure the perfect drink:
- Prep the glass:
Salted or unsalted, you'll want to start by rimming your highball glass so it's ready to enjoy right after making your drink. - Make the cocktail:
To your glass filled with ice, combine all required ingredients, making sure to give everything a good stir with a cocktail spoon. Top with the bubbly finish to make this drink taller. - Garnish:
I like squeezing citrus wedges directly into my glass for added flavor. Enjoy!
When to Serve Grapefruit Mezcal Cocktails
This grapefruit and Mezcal cocktail is perfect for enjoying any time of the day, from early afternoons with friends or alone at home after a long day of work.
Looking to turn your happy hour into a whole fiesta? Pair this cocktail with my taco lettuce wraps, rotisserie chicken tacos, or these epic street tacos!
Mezcals to try in this Cocktail
New to the world of Mezcal or need to switch things up? Here are a few recommendations for various price ranges to expand your collection:
More Mezcal Cocktails
If smoky Mezcal cocktails are your happy hour go-to, you'll love this Mezcal Margarita, a Mezcal sunrise, Mezcal bloody Maria, or to keep things light, my skinny Mezcal Margarita!
Grapefruit and Mezcal Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 ounces Mezcal
- 4 ounces fresh grapefruit juice
- 2 ounces sparkling water or citrus soda
- Citrus wedge, for garnish
- Margarita salt, optional
Instructions
Prep:
- If you enjoy a salted glass, prep the rim of your highball glass by rubbing a lime wedge along the rim. Dip in tequila salt, and set aside.
Make the cocktail:
- To the highball glass filled with ice, add Mezcal and grapefruit juice. Mix well with a cocktail spoon before topping off with sparkling water or citrus soda to make this drink taller.
Garnish:
- Garnish with grapefruit, lime, or lemon wedges. Enjoy!
