Smoky Mezcal Sour Cocktail Recipe

The Smoky Mezcal Sour is a bold, flavorful cocktail that takes the classic sour template and gives it a deep, earthy twist with mezcal. Balanced with bright citrus, a touch of sweetness, and the silky texture of egg white, this drink is equal parts dramatic and delicious. It’s the perfect cocktail for mezcal lovers or anyone looking to shake things up with a smoky, sophisticated sip.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, Complex Flavor: The smokiness of mezcal shines against citrus and sweet notes.
• Velvety Smooth Texture: Egg white adds a luxurious, foamy top and mouthfeel.
• Visually Stunning: Garnish with bitters or a citrus twist for an elegant finish.
• Simple, Classic Technique: Uses the tried-and-true sour cocktail method—easy to master.
• Vegan-Friendly Option: Easily adapted using aquafaba in place of egg white.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 oz mezcal
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• ¾ oz agave syrup (or simple syrup)
• 1 egg white (or ¾ oz aquafaba for vegan version)
• Ice
• 2–3 dashes Angostura bitters (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Dry Shake (no ice):
   Add mezcal, lime juice, agave syrup, and egg white to a shaker. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to emulsify the egg white and build the foam.
2. Wet Shake (with ice):
   Add ice to the shaker and shake again for another 15–20 seconds until chilled.
3. Strain and Serve:
   Double strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass. Let the foam settle for a few seconds.
4. Garnish:
   Add a few drops of bitters on top of the foam and use a toothpick to swirl for a dramatic effect. Optionally, garnish with a lime wheel or zest.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 1 cocktail
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Mezcal Grapefruit Sour: Swap lime for fresh grapefruit juice for a citrusy twist.
• Spicy Mezcal Sour: Add a slice of muddled jalapeño before shaking for a kick.
• Pineapple Mezcal Sour: Add ½ oz pineapple juice to complement the smoke.
• Herbal Sour: Shake with a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary for a botanical edge.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Best enjoyed fresh. You can pre-mix the mezcal, syrup, and lime juice and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add egg white and shake fresh before serving.
• Reheating: Not applicable.

FAQs

What is mezcal?

Mezcal is a Mexican spirit made from agave, similar to tequila but typically roasted in underground pits, giving it a signature smoky flavor.

Can I make this without egg white?

Yes! You can use aquafaba (chickpea water) for a vegan version or omit it entirely for a lighter, non-foamy cocktail.

What kind of mezcal is best?

Choose a joven (young) mezcal with a clean, smoky profile—it’s ideal for mixing.

Is this cocktail strong?

Yes—it’s spirit-forward, but the citrus and foam smooth it out nicely.

Can I use lemon juice instead of lime?

Definitely. Lemon gives it a slightly sweeter, more mellow flavor than lime.

How do I make it sweeter?

Increase the agave syrup to 1 oz or add a splash of orange liqueur for added sweetness and complexity.

What’s the purpose of dry shaking?

Dry shaking without ice emulsifies the egg white, helping create a thick, creamy foam on top.

Should I strain the drink?

Yes, double-straining through a fine mesh sieve removes ice shards and ensures a smooth finish.

What kind of glass should I use?

A coupe glass for an elegant presentation, or a rocks glass for a more casual feel.

Can I batch this for a party?

You can pre-mix the base ingredients (excluding egg white), refrigerate, and shake each serving individually for the best foam.

Conclusion

The Smoky Mezcal Sour is a standout cocktail that blends bold, smoky flavors with the elegance of a classic sour. Whether you’re already a mezcal fan or just curious about this unique spirit, this cocktail is a sophisticated and flavorful way to enjoy it. Serve it up with a swirl of bitters and a citrus garnish, and get ready to impress.

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