Mezcal Mint Julep
Mezcal Mint Julep is a crisp, highly refreshing twist on the Southern classic that brilliantly swaps traditional bourbon for the earthy, artisanal smoke of Del Maguey mezcal. Gently muddled with fresh mint and sweet simple syrup, this beautifully balanced cooler is built over a mountain of crushed ice and elegantly finished with an aromatic mint sprig.
Ingredients:
10–12 fresh mint leaves
15 ml simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water)
Crushed ice (enough to fill and mound the glass)
1–2 dashes aromatic or citrus bitters (optional)
A small pinch of salt (optional)
Fresh mint sprig for garnish
Instructions:
Add the fresh mint leaves and simple syrup to the bottom of a sturdy rocks glass or julep cup.
Gently muddle the mint, pressing just enough to release its oils without shredding the leaves.
Pour in Del Maguey’s Vida Clásico and give a brief stir to combine with the mint and syrup.
Fill the glass with crushed ice, mounding it slightly above the rim.
Stir the cocktail from the bottom up until the outside of the glass starts to frost and the drink is well chilled.
Top with a little more crushed ice if needed to maintain the mound.
Add 1–2 dashes of bitters and a small pinch of salt, if using, and give a gentle final stir.
Garnish with a fresh mint sprig near the rim, lightly slapping it between your hands first to wake up the aroma, and serve immediately.
Attribution:
Recipe: Carlos Andrés Ramírez
Origin: Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal
Photo: Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal