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With fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, and that bold mezcal flavor, this cocktail is everything you love about a margarita with a smoky twist.
Is Mezcal Tequila Good for Margaritas
Absolutely! While classic margaritas are made with tequila, mezcal makes a seriously good swap-especially if you're in the mood for something smoky and bold. I first tried it thanks to my cousin Bradley, who brought over a bottle as a gift. I had no clue what to expect… but one margarita later, I was hooked!
Both spirits come from the agave plant, but mezcal is made by roasting the hearts of the plant in underground pits, which gives it that signature smoky flavor. For simple mezcal cocktails, I like using a lighter mezcal (not as smoky) so the citrus can shine through. But if you're mixing with juice, a smokier one totally works.
What is a Margarita with Mezcal Called
On a trip to Mexico City back in the 2000s, I learned that a Margarita made with Mezcal is called a "Mezcalita." Mezcalitas are a blend of sweet liquor, fresh lime juice, and the smoky kick from Mezcal.
Watching your calories? You'll love my skinny mezcal margarita. It has all the smoky magic and is a lighter sip.
How to Make a Mezcalita
The detailed steps for making this cocktail are written in detail in the recipe card; here are some additional tips in each to ensure the best drink:
- Prep the Glass
Salted or unsalted rims are up to you but do this so your glass is ready! - Shake it Up
Shake, shake, shake is the the name of the game when it comes to mixing cocktails. Use a cocktail shaker or a mason jar to get the job done. - Pour and Garnish
Add a wedge of lime on the side or squeeze it into your cocktail and enjoy.
First time making this Mezcalita? Watch this quick video to see how it's done!
Is Mezcal Stronger than Tequila
Both Mezcal and Tequila range from 38% to 55% ABV so it depends on which one you use and how much of it you pour to make a cocktail. Personally, I find that Mezcal's smoky taste makes it feel richer, not stronger than Tequila's classic peppery taste.
More Mezcal Cocktails
It took me a while to get used to making Mezcal cocktails since I feel it's an acquired taste. If you enjoy its rich and smoky taste, try a Mezcal Paloma, this incredibly Spicy Mezcale Cocktail, a fruity Mezcal and Grapefruit Cocktail, this refreshing Mango Mezcalita, or my famous Mezcal Bloody Maria.
How to Serve a Mezcal Margarita
My favorite way to enjoy a Mezcalita is by topping it off with a few extra lime wedges, or if I am feeling fancy, I will skewer the lime wedges through a cocktail pick to add an extra flare of fun!
Hungry or entertaining? Pair it with my Blackened Fish Tacos with Tilapia or my Slow Cooker Tequila and Lime Pulled Pork Tacos.
Mezcal Margarita
Watch How It's Made
Ingredients
- 1 ½ ounces mezcal
- 1 ¼ ounce lime juice, about 1 lime
- 1 ½ ounce Cointreau or triple sec
- ½ ounce simple syrup
- Salt, optional
- Lime wedge, for garnish
Instructions
- If you enjoy a salted glass, prep the rim of your glass by rubbing a lime wedge along the rim. Dip in tequila salt, and set aside.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add mezcal, lime juice, Cointreau or triple sec, and simple syrup. Shake until the sides are fully frosted.
- Pour, with the ice or over fresh ice, into the prepared glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.
Carla says
Great mezcalita!