Take your next cocktail for a smoky and strong spin with the Oaxaca Old Fashioned.
The classic combination of a liquor—like whiskey or bourbon—sugar, water and bitters all mixed together is known today as an Old Fashioned. And it got that name once the barkeeps in the 1800s began to experiment with the popular formula, adding other elements and ingredients to the concoction in hopes of discovering another genius mixture. Instead, drinkers all over began to send their beverages back, asking instead if they could have one that’s made “the old-fashioned way”.
Since the 1880s, the original version of tonight’s recipe began to officially be called the Old Fashioned, ensuring those who ordered one that what they were getting was indeed made the traditional way. Over the course of two centuries, the Old Fashioned inspired a number of offshoots and variants, because that’s what trendsetters do.
And in 2007, another version was born, with this one helping to usher in another era of cocktail history. New York City mixologist Phil Ward took the historic tipple and added his own spin to it, replacing the whiskey with a combination of tequila and a smoky, robust mezcal. Introducing the latter, more complex-tasting spirit to many unassuming imbibers, Ward helped contribute to mezcal’s then-burgeoning popularity.
What is the best alcohol to use in the Oaxaca Old Fashioned?
To successfully recreate the robust and full-bodied Oaxaca Old Fashioned, you’ll need two different agave-forward spirits, specifically tequila and mezcal. For the tequila, we’ll want a slightly aged and golden-colored reposado, which will be a little richer than a clear blanco that is often used to mix drinks. For the mezcal, if you’ve never had any experience with it, a bottle of Vida is recommended to start with. I’ve recently discovered Matasanta mezcal, and if you run across a bottle at your local liquor store, grab it! Smooth and with a nice bite, you can sip on it neat, and using it in tonight’s cocktail helps add the right level of complexity.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces mezcal
- 1/2 ounce tequila reposado
- 1 teaspoon agave nectar
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel for garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing glass, combine the mezcal, tequila, agave nectar, and Angostura bitters.
- Add ice cubes, and stir until chilled.
- Strain the mixture into an Old Fashioned glass filled with a large ice cube.
- Twist the orange peel over the drink, and drop it in as a garnish.
Nutrition
What glassware and garnish are used?
Serve your tipple in a rocks or Old Fashioned glass, filled with ice or a large cocktail cube. Once your drink is poured and ready, garnish with an orange twist.
Why is this cocktail called the Oaxaca Old Fashioned?
Pronounced waa-haa-kuh, Oaxaca in Mexico is responsible for producing a large amount of the mezcal that is exported around the world. Today’s recipe was named as such in honor of the city and state south of the border.
Other Old Fashioned variations worth trying
Have you been in the mood for something traditional lately? Maybe a dram of historic proportions? The Old Fashioned is definitely a cocktail that fits the bill. And if you’re also searching for the familiar, yet with a difference, then check out some of these various Old Fashioneds.
- Rum Old Fashioned – Have a tropically-tinged version of the classic with this recipe.
- Wisconsin Old-Fashioned – Here’s a trendy riff that features brandy as the base.
- Maple Old Fashioned – Sweet, strong and smooth, this take features maple syrup in place of the sugar.
- Irish Old Fashioned – Whiskey from the Emerald Isle makes this libation a buttery one.
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