If you’re looking for a drink that’s smoky, citrusy, and perfectly balanced, the Refreshing Mexican Mezcal Cocktail is just what you need. Mezcal has been a traditional spirit in Mexico for centuries, and it’s gaining international popularity for its bold, earthy flavor with hints of smoke.
This cocktail combines fresh lime juice, young mezcal, and light agave syrup, resulting in a drink that is both refreshing and complex. A few dashes of Angostura bitters and a lime twist garnish elevate it into a true bartender-worthy creation you can make at home.
Whether you’re hosting friends for a weekend gathering or simply winding down after a long day, this mezcal cocktail delivers the perfect sip of Mexico-inspired refreshment.
Ingredients
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1 lime (for garnish & twist)
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1 orange (optional, for zest or garnish)
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1 ½ ounces fresh lime juice
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1 ½ ounces young mezcal
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½ ounce light agave syrup
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Ice cubes
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A few dashes of Angostura bitters (for garnish)
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Lime twist (for serving)
Instructions
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Prepare the citrus
Cut the lime and orange. Use a vegetable peeler to create a fresh lime twist. -
Mix the cocktail
In a cocktail shaker, combine fresh lime juice, young mezcal, and agave syrup. -
Shake it well
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled. -
Strain & serve
Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice cubes. -
Garnish & enjoy
Add a lime twist and a few drops of Angostura bitters for a finishing touch. Serve immediately.
Recipe Details
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 0 minutes
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Total Time: 10 minutes
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Category: Drinks, Cocktails
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Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
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Servings: 1 cocktail
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Calories: ~170 kcal (estimate)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: ~170 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 10 g
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Sugar: 9 g
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Alcohol: 14 g
Tips for the Perfect Mezcal Cocktail
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Choose the right mezcal: Young (joven) mezcals are ideal for cocktails. They’re smoother and less intense than aged varieties.
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Balance the sweetness: Adjust agave syrup to your preference—use less for a tarter drink or more for a rounder sweetness.
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Chill your glass: Place your glass in the freezer 5–10 minutes before serving for an extra refreshing experience.
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Bitters as a garnish: A few dashes of Angostura bitters add complexity, but don’t overdo it—the smoky mezcal should remain the star.
Variations
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Smoky-Spicy Mezcal Cocktail: Add a slice of jalapeño to the shaker for a spicy kick.
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Citrus Mezcal Twist: Use fresh orange juice instead of lime juice for a sweeter, less tart drink.
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Mezcal Paloma Style: Add grapefruit juice and top with soda water for a fizzy variation.
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Frozen Mezcal Margarita: Blend with ice for a slushy-style cocktail perfect for summer.
Why You’ll Love This Cocktail
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Quick and easy to prepare in under 10 minutes
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Balanced flavors of smoky, tart, and sweet
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A creative twist on classic Mexican-inspired cocktails
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Perfect for summer evenings, dinner parties, or cocktail hour

Refreshing Mexican Mezcal Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lime
- 1 orange
- 1 ½ ounces fresh lime juice
- 1 ½ ounces young mezcal
- ½ ounce light agave syrup
- Ice cubes
- A few dashes of Angostura bitters for garnish
- Lime twist for serving
Instructions
- Cut the lime and orange, and prepare a fresh lime twist with a vegetable peeler.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine lime juice, mezcal, and agave syrup.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a lime twist and a few drops of bitters. Serve immediately.