Oaxaca Old Fashioned
A smoky Mexican twist on the classic Old Fashioned that combines the earthy complexity of mezcal with the warmth of aged tequila. This sophisticated cocktail balances agave spirits with agave nectar and aromatic bitters for a deeply satisfying sip.
The Oaxaca Old Fashioned represents a perfect marriage of Mexican tradition and American cocktail craftsmanship. This isn't just another mezcal cocktailβit's a sophisticated reimagining of the world's most beloved whiskey drink that showcases the incredible depth and complexity that agave spirits can bring to classic recipes. With its haunting smoke, gentle sweetness, and warming spice, this cocktail transports you from the bustling cantinas of Oaxaca to the refined cocktail lounges of New York City in a single sip.

AI-Crafted Recipe
This recipe was created by our AI mixologist. It may not be a traditional recipe but should be a delicious interpretation.
π Ingredients
- 1 oz Mezcalπ Amazon
- 0.25 oz Agave Nectarπ Amazon
- 2 dash Angostura Bittersπ Amazon
- 1 piece Orange Peelπ Amazon
Garnish: Orange peel and flamed orange twist
π¨βπ³ Instructions
Add mezcal, reposado tequila, agave nectar, and Angostura bitters to a mixing glass filled with ice.
Stir gently for 20-30 seconds until well chilled and properly diluted.
Strain into a chilled rocks glass over one large ice cube.
Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink and rim the glass.
Optionally, flame the orange peel for added aromatic intensity, then drop into the glass as garnish.
Flavor Profile
Tools Needed
Jigger
View on Amazon βMixing Glass
View on Amazon βBar Spoon
View on Amazon βOXO SteeL Cocktail Strainer (Hawthorne)
View on Amazon βIce Molds (Large Cube)
View on Amazon βChannel Knife/Peeler
View on Amazon βRocks Glass Set
View on Amazon βπ‘ Pro Tips
- 1
Use a high-quality mezcal with balanced smokeβoverly smoky mezcals can overwhelm the drink
- 2
Reposado tequila is essential for its oak aging and vanilla notes that complement the mezcal
- 3
Express orange peel oils over the drink and rim the glass for maximum aromatic impact
- 4
Agave nectar dissolves better than agave syrup and provides cleaner sweetness
- 5
Chill your rocks glass beforehand and use one large ice cube to minimize dilution
π History & Origin
Created in 2007 by Phil Ward at Death & Co in New York City, the Oaxaca Old Fashioned emerged during the early days of the mezcal renaissance in American craft cocktails. Ward, inspired by a trip to Oaxaca and the region's incredible mezcal tradition, sought to create a drink that would introduce American palates to the complex, smoky spirit in a familiar format. The cocktail combines equal parts mezcal and reposado tequila, creating a more approachable entry point for those intimidated by mezcal's intensity while still showcasing its distinctive character. The drink quickly became a signature at Death & Co and helped launch mezcal into the mainstream American cocktail scene. Today, it's considered a modern classic and has inspired countless variations, proving that innovation in cocktails often comes from respectful reinterpretation of timeless recipes. The Oaxaca Old Fashioned demonstrates how traditional spirits from different cultures can be harmoniously blended to create something entirely new yet deeply rooted in history.





