Oaxacan Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

The Oaxacan Old Fashioned is a modern twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, created by renowned bartender Phil Ward at the famous Death & Co. bar in New York City. This cocktail is a perfect blend of Mexican and American spirits, combining the smoky flavors of mezcal with the sweetness of agave syrup and the bitterness of Angostura bitters. It's a favorite among adventurous drinkers and those who appreciate the unique flavors of mezcal.

The Oaxacan Old Fashioned is a complex, smoky, and slightly sweet cocktail with a rich, velvety texture. The mezcal provides an earthy, smoky backbone, while the agave syrup adds a touch of sweetness and the Angostura bitters bring a subtle bitterness to balance the flavors.

• The Oaxacan Old Fashioned was created by Phil Ward, a renowned bartender at Death & Co., one of the most influential cocktail bars in the world.
• Mezcal, the primary spirit in this cocktail, is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant, native to Mexico.
• The name 'Oaxacan' comes from the region of Oaxaca in Mexico, which is known for producing some of the finest mezcal in the world.

1. In a mixing glass, combine the mezcal, reposado tequila, agave syrup, and Angostura bitters.
2. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir the cocktail until well chilled.
3. Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with a large ice cube.
4. Express the orange peel over the cocktail, then discard the peel.
5. Garnish the cocktail with a Luxardo Maraschino cherry.

• Use a high-quality mezcal for the best flavor. The smokiness of the mezcal is a key component of this cocktail.
• Stir the cocktail well to ensure all the ingredients are fully combined and the cocktail is properly chilled.
• Express the orange peel over the cocktail to release the oils and add a subtle citrus aroma.

Savory Snacks

• Grilled Steak Tacos: The smokiness of mezcal and reposado tequila complements the charred flavors of grilled meat.
• Chips and Guacamole: The creamy texture of the avocado balances the bite of the bitters and the citrus notes from the orange peel.

Spicy Dishes

• Spicy Tuna Roll: The heat from the wasabi and sriracha sauce in a spicy tuna roll is mellowed by the sweet agave syrup and cherry garnish.
• Chile Rellenos: The Oaxacan Old Fashioned's complexity stands up to the robust flavors of stuffed and fried poblano peppers.

Sweet Treats

• Dark Chocolate: A piece of high-quality dark chocolate brings out the depths of the mezcal and reposado tequila while contrasting with the brightness of the orange.

• If you don't have mezcal, you can use a smoky Scotch as a substitute.
• If you don't have reposado tequila, you can use blanco tequila instead, but the flavor will be slightly different.
• If you don't have agave syrup, you can use simple syrup or honey as a substitute.

Smoky Spice Old Fashioned

• Ingredients: Replace 2oz of mezcal with 2oz of smoky Scotch and the Angostura bitters with chipotle bitters.
• Recipe: Similar to the original, replacing the key ingredients with the above.
• Taste: A deep dive into a peaty affair, with a hint of chipotle to warm your palette.
• Why make it?: Smoked spice lovers, unite! It's a drink that bites back.

Agave Old Fashioned Deluxe

• Ingredients: Double the agave syrup and add a pinch of smoked salt.
• Recipe: Follow the original recipe, but stir in the smoked salt before adding ice.
• Taste: Sweeter with a surprising salty twang that brings out a new side of mezcal.
• Why make it?: For those with a sweet tooth who like to walk the salty side of the street.

Citrus Burst Old Fashioned

• Ingredients: Add a splash of fresh orange juice and use blood orange bitters instead of Angostura.
• Recipe: Mix as usual, adding the orange juice to your spirit base before stirring.
• Taste: A brighter, fruitier take that sends citrus vibrations through your taste buds.
• Why make it?: If you're feeling zesty and longing for a citrusy twist, this is your jam.