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Smoke on the Water Mezcal Cocktail

Mezcal with maple syrup, lemon juice, and bitter chocolate bitters for a smoky, sweet and sour flavor.

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History of the Smoke on the Water Mezcal Cocktail

The “Smoke on the Water” mezcal cocktail is a relatively new and modern cocktail that has gained popularity in the recent years. The cocktail is named after the classic rock song by Deep Purple, and it is often served in bars and restaurants that specialize in mezcal or smoky cocktails. The cocktail is made by combining mezcal with maple syrup, lemon juice, and bitter chocolate bitters for a smoky, sweet and sour flavor. The recipe for this drink is not well-documented and it is not known who first created it, but it is thought to have originated in the United States, likely in a city with a vibrant cocktail culture like New York or San Francisco.

Mezcal has been gaining popularity in recent years and is becoming more common in cocktails. This has led to the creation of new and unique drinks like the Smoke on the Water, which is a perfect combination of the smoky flavor of mezcal with the sweetness of maple syrup and the acidity of lemon juice. The use of bitter chocolate bitters give a depth to the flavor and make this cocktail into a one of a kind experience.

It is a common drink among Mezcal enthusiasts, and can be found on the menu of many bars and restaurants that specialize in mezcal and other smoky cocktails. The popularity of the Smoke on the Water mezcal cocktail is expected to continue to rise as more and more people discover the unique and delicious flavors of mezcal.

How to Make a Smoke on the Water Mezcal Cocktail

Ingredients:

2 oz mezcal
1 oz lemon juice
1/2 oz maple syrup
2 dashes chocolate bitters
Lemon twist or rosemary sprig for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine the mezcal, lemon juice, maple syrup and chocolate bitters.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Garnish with a lemon twist or rosemary sprig, if desired.
Enjoy and savor the smoky and sweet flavors of the Smoke on the Water mezcal cocktail.

Note: You can adjust the amount of maple syrup and lemon juice to taste and you can also add a splash of simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter drink. Some recipes also include a small amount of absinthe to give it a hint of anise and herbal flavors. You can try experimenting with different bitters as well to achieve different flavors.

Possible Health Benefits of Mezcal

Mezcal, like other alcoholic beverages, should be consumed in moderation. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a variety of health problems. However, some research suggests that moderate consumption of mezcal may have potential health benefits.

Heart health: The high levels of antioxidants found in mezcal may help to protect the heart from damage and lower the risk of heart disease.
Anti-inflammatory effects: Mezcal has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
Cognitive function: A study found that moderate alcohol consumption, including mezcal, may be associated with better cognitive function in older adults.
Bone health: Mezcal contains a moderate amount of silicon, which is important for bone health.
Digestive health: The agave plant used to make mezcal has been traditionally used to aid digestion and relieve constipation.

It’s important to note that these potential benefits are associated with moderate drinking. The World Health Organization defines moderate drinking as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men. And it’s also important to keep in mind that the benefits of moderate drinking must be weighed against the risks, especially for people with certain health conditions or who are at high risk of developing alcohol-related problems.

Highest-Rated Mezcals

Mezcal is a traditional Mexican spirit that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is made from the agave plant, which is native to Mexico, and is known for its unique smoky flavor. There are many high-quality mezcals available on the market, each with its own unique flavor profile. Here are some examples of some of the highest-rated mezcals you may want to try:

Del Maguey Vida: This mezcal is made with 100% Espadin agave and is known for its smoky, earthy flavor with a hint of sweetness. The agave is cooked in underground pits and then distilled in copper pot stills. It is a versatile mezcal that can be enjoyed neat or in a cocktail.
Ilegal Mezcal Reposado: This mezcal is aged for six months in oak barrels, which gives it a smooth, woody flavor with notes of vanilla and caramel. The agave is cooked in underground pits and then distilled in copper pot stills. It is a great option for those who want to try a mezcal with a little bit of aged flavor.
Mezcalosfera Pechuga: This mezcal is made using a unique distillation process that involves adding a turkey breast to the still, which imparts a unique, rich flavor. This process adds a special touch to the final product, it is a very unique and special mezcal.
El Jolgorio Espadin: This mezcal is made with 100% Espadin agave and is known for its smoky, herbaceous flavor with notes of citrus and pepper. The agave is cooked in underground pits and then distilled in copper pot stills. It is a great option for those who want to try a mezcal with a little bit of aged flavor.
Alipus San Andres: This mezcal is made with 100% Espadin agave and is known for its smoky, earthy flavor with a hint of sweetness. It is a versatile mezcal that can be enjoyed neat or in a cocktail. This mezcal is made by a small family-run distillery, it is a great option for those who want to try a small batch mezcal.
Siete Misterios Doba-Yej: This mezcal is made with 100% Doba-Yej agave and is known for its smoky, earthy flavor with a hint of sweetness. The agave is cooked in underground pits and then distilled in copper pot stills. It is a versatile mezcal that can be enjoyed neat or in a cocktail.
Real Minero Pechuga: This mezcal is made using a unique distillation process that involves adding a turkey breast to the still, which imparts a unique, rich flavor. This process adds a special touch to the final product, it is a very unique and special mezcal.
Los Danzantes Joven: This mezcal is made with 100% Espadin agave and is known for its smooth, woody flavor with notes of vanilla and caramel. The agave is cooked in underground pits and then distilled in copper pot stills. It is a great option for those who want to try a mezcal with a little bit of aged flavor.

These are just a few examples of some of the highest-rated mezcals available. The best mezcal for you will depend on your personal taste preferences and budget.

How Mezcal Is Made

Mezcal is a traditional spirit that is made from the fermented and distilled juice of the agave plant, which is native to Mexico. The process of making mezcal is very similar to that of tequila, but with some key differences.

First, the agave plants are harvested by hand, typically when they are around 8-12 years old. The leaves of the agave are then removed, leaving the heart or “piña” of the plant, which can weigh up to 200 pounds. The piñas are then cooked, typically in underground pits that are lined with volcanic rock. The cooking process can take anywhere from 24 to 72 hours and is what gives mezcal its distinct smoky flavor.

Once the piñas are cooked, they are mashed and fermented. The fermentation process can take anywhere from 3 to 15 days, depending on the desired flavor profile of the mezcal. After fermentation, the liquid is distilled, usually in copper or clay stills. The distillation process can happen one or more times, depending on the desired alcohol content.

After distillation, the mezcal is aged in oak barrels for various periods of time, depending on the desired final product. Some mezcals are aged for several months, while others are aged for several years. The aging process gives the mezcal its unique color, aroma, and flavor.

Finally, the mezcal is bottled and sold. Mezcal can be aged for several months to several years. The alcohol content of the final product can range from 35% to 55%.