Mezcal-Tequila Margarita Recipe (2024)

FAQs

Is mezcal tequila good for margaritas? ›

Although mezcal is known for its small scale beginnings, it has emerged as a popular spirit all over the U.S. So you can get that vacation flavor at your local liquor store. Can you use mezcal in a margarita? You can absolutely make a margarita with mezcal.

We'll just tell you upfront: The secret to a tasty margarita is freshly squeezed lime juice (not the bottled stuff) and—here's the real secret—a splash of fresh OJ. That's right. Fresh-squeezed juice from an actual orange (not an orange-flavored liqueur) will produce a cleaner-tasting, more refreshing margarita.

The difference between a classic margarita and the Smartblend Mezcal margarita is the smokiness that the addition of Mezcal adds. It focuses more on a balance of smoke and sour as opposed to the sweet and sour.

The traditional margarita recipe is made with a ratio of 2:1:1, which means: 2 parts tequila or 2 oz. 1 part triple sec or 1 oz. 1 part lime juice or 1 oz.

The thing is, Mezcal and tequila often have the same alcohol content. So technically, you'll get your buzz on just the same no matter which of these spirits you're sipping on.

Mezcal can be either clear (white) or dark (amber) depending on how long it has been aged in oak barrels. Like tequila, mezcal can be either blanco or reposado; however, it's typically not aged for as long as tequila because of its stronger flavor profile and higher proof (up to 55%).

You'll notice that this particular margarita recipe is missing one ingredient that's crucial to a classic margarita. Orange liqueur (often Cointreau or another triple sec) typically brings sweetness to this drink, balancing the tart lime and tequila.

A splash of fruit juice can also add some more flavor to your margaritas. Grapefruit juice will give a tart, slightly sour flavor, while pineapple juice creates a more tropical-tasting drink. "Citrus-based juices are essential for balancing out the sweetness of a margarita," David Alan told Insider.

While it's delicious on its own, we also love to pair mezcal with fresh citrus (or pineapple!) or savory vegetables. It's lovely in a spicy drink and in a stirred, brooding one.

While other beverages are converted into monosaccharide sugars that our liver must process and eliminate, producing that unpleasant effect known as hangover; mezcal is transformed into a polysaccharide sugar, which, as soon as it comes in contact with the mouth, begins to disintegrate, making its transformation in the ...

Which is healthier mezcal or tequila? ›

Mezcal is also made through fermentation, which means it can promote healthy digestion because it introduces more good bacteria into your gut. While mezcal is legally required to be 100% agave, up to 49% of a bottle of tequila can contain fillers like corn, grain, sulfates, and artificial colors and flavors.

An easy way to remember how to mix a classic margarita is to memorize the ratio 3-2-1: three parts tequila, two parts good triple sec (like Luxardo Triplum, Cointreau, or Combier), and one part lime juice. Serve it on the rocks with salt, as pictured, or serve it up in a chilled glass.

The formula for the perfect margarita:

The key to making the best margarita is all in the ratio and balance of the ingredients. This recipe is doubled to make two margs, but for one perfectly balanced margarita, we use 2 oz. of tequila, 1 oz. of triple sec, and 3/4 oz. lime juice.

Great tequila makes great Margaritas. The average person prefers a Blanco tequila in a Margarita, some may seek a Reposado. If you like light Margaritas and are on a budget, try Arette Blanco. If you like cigars and whiskey, try Adictivo Reposado.

A blanco will offer the purest and freshest agave flavors in your co*cktail. As you get into the aged tequilas (reposado and añejo, not to mention extra añejo), the resulting Margarita will taste less fresh and zingy, but there will be an undeniable increase in the smoothness and richness of your drink.

Los Vecinos Espadín Mezcal

Leyenda's house Margaritas are made with Los Vecinos Espadín. Mix praises this mezcal's affordability, higher proof than other “mixing mezcals” and “nice amount of smoke, but not too much.” Roasted pepper notes in the spirit lead with spice, followed by fruitier flavors.

“Mezcal and tequila can be used interchangeably in certain co*cktails, thanks to their similar production processes,” shares Hedges. “Mezcal can add an outstanding twist to classic tequila co*cktails, offering a smoky and robust flavor.