Unveiling the Oaxaca Old Fashioned: A Spirited Journey into Mexican Mixology

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Explore the captivating world of mixology with the Oaxaca Old Fashioned, a mezcal-infused twist on the classic cocktail. Uncover its rich history, master the art of crafting it with essential barware, and embark on a flavorful journey through classic variations and alternative mezcal cocktails. Elevate your drinking experience with the smoky allure of Oaxacan spirits. Cheers to tradition, innovation, and the perfect pour!

History of the Oaxaca Old Fashioned

The Oaxaca Old Fashioned emerged as a contemporary variation of the classic Old Fashioned, taking inspiration from the vast and diverse world of mezcal. Mezcal, a distilled alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant, particularly the espadin variety, hails from the Oaxaca region of Mexico. The cocktail is believed to have originated in the early 2000s, as mixologists sought to introduce the bold flavors of mezcal into well-loved classics.

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Ingredients

To craft the Oaxaca Old Fashioned, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 oz Mezcal (preferably joven or reposado)
1/2 oz Agave nectar
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Orange twist (for garnish)

Essential Barware

To prepare this enticing libation, you’ll require the following essential barware:

Mixing glass
Bar spoon
Jigger
Strainer
Large ice cube mold
Old Fashioned glass

How to Make a Oaxaca Old Fashioned

Begin by chilling the Old Fashioned glass with ice water.
In a mixing glass, combine the mezcal, agave nectar, and Angostura bitters.
Add ice to the mixing glass and stir the ingredients gently to chill the mixture.
Discard the ice water from the Old Fashioned glass and place a large ice cube in it.
Strain the mixed ingredients over the ice cube in the Old Fashioned glass.
Express the oils from an orange twist over the cocktail and drop it into the glass as a garnish.

Variations

While the traditional Oaxaca Old Fashioned remains a cherished favorite, there are subtle variations that showcase the creativity of mixologists. Some common twists include:

Mole Bitters: Adding a few dashes of mole bitters enhances the complexity with chocolate and spice notes.
Smoked Salt Rim: Rim the glass with smoked salt for an extra layer of smokiness and a touch of salinity.

Alternatives

If you’re in the mood to explore further, consider trying these alternative cocktails with a mezcal twist:

Mezcal Negroni: Experience the bold allure of the Mezcal Negroni, a spirited twist on the classic Negroni cocktail. Blending the smoky depth of mezcal with the bitter complexity of Campari and the sweet vermouth, this concoction is garnished with an orange twist for a harmonious balance of flavors that captivates the senses.
Mezcal Paloma: Indulge in the vibrant and refreshing Mezcal Paloma, a mezcal-infused variation of the classic Paloma cocktail. This delightful mix combines the robust notes of mezcal with the citrusy brightness of grapefruit juice and the subtle sweetness of agave syrup. Topped with soda water and garnished with a wedge of grapefruit, it’s a lively and invigorating sip that transports you to sun-soaked landscapes.

Last Call

The Oaxaca Old Fashioned is a testament to the evolving landscape of mixology, blending the classic with the contemporary and showcasing the incredible versatility of mezcal. Whether you savor the traditional recipe or venture into variations and alternatives, the Oaxaca Old Fashioned promises a sensory journey through the vibrant and robust flavors of Mexican spirits. Cheers to the spirited innovation that continues to shape the world of cocktails!