Why You’ll Love This Tequila Old Fashioned
If you’re a fan of classic cocktails but crave something with a bold, modern twist, this Tequila Old Fashioned is your new go-to drink. Combining the smooth richness of tequila with the smoky depth of mezcal, this cocktail is a flavor explosion that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a party or winding down after a long day, this drink is guaranteed to impress.
Plus, it’s ready in just 5 minutes—no fancy bartending skills required!
What Makes a Tequila Old Fashioned Special?
The Old Fashioned is a timeless cocktail, traditionally made with whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus. But swapping whiskey for tequila adds a whole new dimension of flavor. Tequila brings a bright, earthy sweetness, while mezcal (optional but highly recommended) adds a smoky complexity that elevates the drink to a whole new level.
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves tequila-based cocktails like a Margarita or a Paloma, but wants to try something a little more sophisticated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Tequila Old Fashioned:
- 2 oz reposado tequila (for a smooth, slightly oaky flavor)
- 0.5 oz mezcal (for a smoky kick—optional but recommended)
- 1 tsp agave syrup (or simple syrup for a touch of sweetness)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters (for depth and balance)
- 1 orange peel (for garnish and a burst of citrus aroma)
- Ice cubes (preferably large for slow dilution)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing glass
- Bar spoon
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Strainer
- Old Fashioned glass
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Glass: Start by placing a large ice cube in your Old Fashioned glass. This helps keep your drink chilled without watering it down too quickly.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing glass, combine the tequila, mezcal, agave syrup, and bitters. Add a handful of ice cubes and stir gently for about 30 seconds. This chills the mixture and allows the flavors to meld together.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into your prepared Old Fashioned glass over the large ice cube.
- Garnish: Twist an orange peel over the glass to release its oils, then drop it into the drink for a beautiful, aromatic finish.
- Enjoy: Sip slowly and savor the smoky, citrusy, and slightly sweet flavors of your Tequila Old Fashioned!
Tips and Variations
- No Mezcal? No Problem! If you don’t have mezcal, you can skip it and use all tequila. The drink will still be delicious, just less smoky.
- Experiment with Bitters: Try orange or chocolate bitters for a unique twist.
- Sweeten to Taste: Adjust the amount of agave syrup based on your preference.
- Smoky Ice Cube: For an extra touch, freeze a bit of mezcal in an ice cube tray and use it in your drink.
Why Tequila Works in an Old Fashioned
Tequila, especially reposado, has a natural sweetness and complexity that pairs beautifully with the bitters and citrus in an Old Fashioned. The agave syrup enhances the tequila’s inherent flavors, while the orange peel adds a bright, zesty finish.
If you’re a fan of tequila cocktails like the Bacardi Rum Vanilla Syrup Cocktail or the Thug Passion Cocktail, you’ll love how this recipe highlights tequila’s versatility.
Pairing Suggestions
This Tequila Old Fashioned pairs wonderfully with:
- Savory Appetizers: Try it with Garlic Butter Shrimp or Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joe.
- Desserts: Complement the smoky notes with a slice of Invisible Apple Cake or Pumpkin Mug Cake.
Ready to shake up your cocktail game? Give this Tequila Old Fashioned a try and let us know what you think in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and tag us on social media. Cheers!
Tequila Old Fashioned Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing glass
- Bar spoon
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Strainer
- Old Fashioned glass
Ingredients
- 2 oz reposado tequila
- 0.5 oz mezcal
- 1 tsp agave syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 orange peel
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Place a large ice cube in an Old Fashioned glass.
- In a mixing glass, combine tequila, mezcal, agave syrup, and bitters. Add ice and stir for 30 seconds.
- Strain into the prepared glass.
- Garnish with an orange peel and enjoy!