Oaxaca Old Fashioned

ABV 30% / 2.4 alcoholic units

Primary spirit: Tequila

A Brief History of the Oaxaca Old Fashioned

Rooted in the vibrant traditions of Oaxaca and the craft cocktail movement, the Oaxaca Old Fashioned is a modern classic with a tale that weaves through the mezcal-rich landscapes of Mexico. Inspired by the timeless elegance of the Old Fashioned, this cocktail emerged as a testament to the innovative spirit of mixologists seeking to elevate and celebrate traditional Mexican spirits.

Taste and Flavour Profile

The Oaxaca Old Fashioned is a sensory masterpiece, weaving together distinct flavours:

• Smoky Serenade: Mezcal takes centre stage, infusing the cocktail with a mesmerising smokiness that lingers on the palate, creating a sensory journey reminiscent of Oaxaca's artisanal mezcal production.

• Reposado Elegance: Reposado tequila, aged to perfection, imparts a subtle sweetness and complexity, contributing notes of vanilla, oak, and a hint of caramel that harmonise with the mezcal's bold character.

• Agave Embrace: The marriage of agave nectar serves as the sweet symphony that binds the spirits together, offering a touch of natural sweetness that enhances the overall balance.

• Bittersweet Undertones: Angostura bitters add a layer of complexity, marrying the smoky, sweet, and bitter elements into a harmonious blend that evolves with each sip.

• Orange Zest: The citrusy brightness from an orange twist adds a refreshing element, rounding off the flavors with a hint of zest.

The Oaxaca Old Fashioned is a harmonious blend of smoky, sweet, and bitter notes, creating a sipping experience that captures the essence of Oaxacan spirits.

Food Pairings:

• Mole Poblano: The intricate flavours of mole complement the smoky and sweet notes of the cocktail.

• Grilled Pineapple Salsa: The tropical sweetness of grilled pineapple enhances the mezcal and tequila blend.

• Carnitas Tacos: The richness of carnitas finds a delightful companion in the smoky depth of the Oaxaca Old Fashioned.

Bar Equipment

• Mixing glass
• Mixing spoon
• Hawthorne strainer
• Fine mesh strainer
• Rocks glass
• Jigger

Ingredients

• 45ml Reopsado Tequila
• 15ml Artensanal Mezcal
• 5ml Agave nectar
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange twist to garnish
• Ice

Method

• Place ice into mixing glass and pour in all ingredients. 
• Gently stir of 20-30 seconds
• Double strain into a chilled rocks glass with a large ice cube
• Garnish with the orange twist

What's the best Reposado Tequila and Mezcal for an Oaxaca Old Fashioned?

Choosing the "best" reposado tequila and mezcal for an Oaxaca Old Fashioned can be subjective and depends on personal preferences. However, we can recommend some well-regarded options known for their quality and flavour profiles that complement the characteristics of an Oaxaca Old Fashioned:

Reposado Tequila:

• Espolon Reposado: This tequila offers a good balance of flavors, featuring notes of cooked agave, vanilla, and a touch of spice. It has a pleasant complexity that can contribute to the overall depth of the cocktail.

• Olmeca Altos Reposado: This tequila is known for its agave-forward flavor with hints of citrus and vanilla. It's a versatile reposado that can work well in cocktails, including the Oaxaca Old Fashioned.

• Herradura Reposado: With its slightly sweet and oaky profile, Herradura Reposado adds a layer of complexity to the Oaxaca Old Fashioned. The aging process in oak barrels imparts a smooth and rich character to the tequila.

Mezcal:

• Siete Misterios Doba-yei: The Doba-Yej is bright and floral with beautifully balanced citrus notes and smokiness. As an artisanal mezcal the pinas are cooked in a traditional earth oven using local wood and river stones and double distilled in copper pot stills. 

• Montelobos Espadín Mezcal: Montelobos Espadín is known for its earthy and herbal notes, complemented by a subtle smokiness. It brings a complexity that pairs well with the añejo tequila, creating a well-rounded Oaxaca Old Fashioned.

When selecting spirits for your Oaxaca Old Fashioned, consider your personal preferences, budget, and the flavor profiles you enjoy. These recommendations offer a balance of quality and character, enhancing the overall experience of the cocktail. Experimentation is encouraged, as the world of tequila and mezcal is vast and filled with unique expressions waiting to be discovered.