Mezcal Mixology 101: 5 Easy To Use Mezcal Mixers
If there is one topic that both purists and cocktail aficionados will agree upon, it's that Mezcal is best enjoyed sipped and savored. While purists will swear that sipping your Mezcal neat will bring pure delight, mixologists will come up with intricate recipes releasing fireworks of tastes in your mouth and a whole new range of sensations.
Mixing cocktails is like cooking. You don't have to be a renowned Chef to prepare a delicious meal; all you need is a dependable starting point and a selection of the best Mezcal mixers.
We've detailed several of the easiest mixers to use below, including Ginger Beer, Grapefruit Soda, Seltzer, Beer, and Apple Cider. And for the ultimate mixology experience, be sure to pick up a bottle of Mezcal El Silencio Espadin for the best Mezcal cocktail results!
5 Mezcal Cocktail Mixers
Ginger Beer
Ginger Beer is used in a Moscow Mule, but it's better in a Mezcal (or Mexican) Mule! With virtually no effort at all –apart from opening the bottle of ginger beer and the bottle of Espadín and pouring a more or less equal amount of the two in a glass– you will create a smoky, earthy, herbaceous, and pungently spicy cocktail. The next step on this one includes adding fresh lime juice and a sprig of mint.
Grapefruit Soda
Grapefruit soda, when found in glass bottles, is usually made with real sugar. This “Paloma” is a summer cocktail with bright, citrusy, subtly bitter, refreshing grapefruit. To produce a classic Paloma, replace the soda with grapefruit juice and a squeezed lime, agave nectar, and flavorless soda. Don't forget a lime wedge (or slice) for the best results!
Seltzer
Seltzer and Mezcal lovers in Texas call a mix of seltzer and Mezcal "Ranch Water," and it may well be your grand entry into mixology. Depending on the type of seltzer (and Mezcal) you use, it could dramatically alter the overall flavor of the cocktail. Hard seltzer is a very popular option, but we suggest starting with regular seltzer water before experimenting, which could drastically alter the cocktail’s overall flavor.
Beer
Beer and Mezcal, a mix seemingly born in some dive bar lost in the middle of nowhere, supplies a surprising combination for your taste buds. A light beer like a Lager can elevate the brighter, fruitier notes in an Espadín Mezcal while the beer's yeasty maltiness softens Mezcal's savory notes and slightly subdues its smokiness. If you're feeling adventurous, add a wedge of orange, lime, or grapefruit to give the drink an extra tropical summer vibe.
Apple Cider
Traditionally, apple cider is paired with dark spirits such as rum and bourbon. Pairing it with Mezcal is definitely a road less traveled but adding an equal part of Espadín in the shaker alongside apple cider will wrap its natural cool and crispiness into a blanket of extra smoky coziness. Add a fresh rosemary sprig and pour over a nice cube of ice for an all-season effect.
Mezcal Mixer Tips
Don't Forget the Salt
Not your average kitchen salt, though. In many places, Mezcal neat is often served with a side of orange slices and Sal de Gusano. If Sal de Gusano is not for you just yet, start with a higher quality salt like Maldon Sea Salt to further enhance the Mezcal's natural smokiness. If you really want to experiment, a mixture of ground chili and salt might be just the thing for a little extra kick.
Shaken or Stirred?
Last but not least, a mixed drink is either shaken or stirred. Citrus drinks are shaken while boozy beverages are stirred. Shaking opens up the sugar and citrus. Stirring creates a vortex allowing the elements of the mix to "breathe." Remember, though, less is more. You want your drink to breathe, not be diluted.
It's Not a Party Without Ice
Regular cubes, full cubes, half cubes, nugget ice, flake ice, crescent ice, gourmet ice, crushed, shaven…the list goes on. While you may be able to sip Mezcal at room temperature, a cocktail just wouldn't be correct without the right serving of ice.
We think you’ll find that the simplest recipes are often the most surprising. A variety of mixers are at your disposal, with no shortage of flavors. Using any of these types of mixers with Mezcal El Silencio will surprise any guest – you might even surprise yourself.