National Mezcal Day: 3 reasons to discover the Mexican agave spirit

On National Mezcal Day, the Mexican agave spirit deserves to be discovered.

While many people happily sip tequila, National Mezcal Day is the perfect excuse to try this other Mexican spirit for the food holiday. Considered the fasted growing spirit category in the U.S., the agave spirit offers a varied flavor. From smoky notes to bright flavors, mezcal could become your new signature spirit.

While tequila is made strictly from the blue agave, the mezcal is made from the palm of the agave plant. As this spirit become more popular, brands are starting to vary the flavors in this traditional Mexican spirit.

For example, Vamonos Riendo skips the smoky notes for a fresh, vibrant flavor profile. With notes of honey and brightness from fresh fruit, this mezcal has limitless possibilities.

While the flavor delivers, Vamonos Riendo looks to support its local community. From partnering with local chefs and artists to supporting the land, this brand appreciates its history.

Cari Hah created a martini using the Vamonos Riendo. Named The Optimistic Martini, this cocktail shows how a mezcal adds a new layer to the classic cocktail. Ready for a taste?

The Optimistic Martini

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Vamonos Riendo Mezcal
• ¾ oz. Dry Vermouth
• ½ oz. Benedictine
• Grapefruit Bitters

Method:

• Stir with ice and strain into coupe.
• Garnish with grapefruit oils expressed.

With a focus on sustainable, Ojo de Tigre looks to redefine the mezcal experience. Created by Luis Gerardo Mendez, this mezcal features two types of sustainably cultivated agave.

By blending these two ingredients, the flavor features note of green apple, lemongrass and even cocoa. While enjoyable straight, this cocktail, Tahiti Pearl cocktail highlights the delicate flavor.

Tahiti Pearl

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Mezcal Ojo de Tigre
• 8-10 Mint Leaves
• 1 oz Simple Syrup
• 2 Dashes Lemon Bitters
• 3 Drops Olive Oil

Method:

• Place all ingredients except olive oil in a shaker with plenty of ice and give it a good shake.
• Serve in a cold coupe glass and use a fine strainer to catch stray pieces of leaves.
• Finish with 3 drops of olive oil on top and decorate with a mint leaf.

Recuerdo Mezcal takes a traditional approach to its production. Cooked with certified wood over river rocks, there is a silky texture to the mezcal. This spirit is meant to be savored, never rushed.

If you are ready to sip and enjoy the moment, this cocktail is a delightful choice.

Viejo Recuerdo

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Recuerdo Mezcal Joen
• 1 oz Grand Marnier
• 2 Tablespoons pumpkin puree
• 1 oz cinnamon syrup (1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, 1-2 sticks cinnamon – break apart the cinnamon sticks and heat alongside the water and sugar to a gentle boil and reduce to a simmer for 1-2 minutes while stirring. Pull off the heat and allow to sit 30-60 minutes to infuse the cinnamon. Cool and strain the cinnamon.)

Instructions:

• Mix all ingredients in a shaker with ice then double strain into a chilled old-fashioned glass with ice.
• Garnish with a roasted pumpkin slice.

Whether you try one of these mezcals on National Mezcal Day or another option, it is time to explore this Mexican agave spirit. Time to sip, savor and salud to the good life.

Do you have a signature cocktail?