Taste of Derek

Taste of Derek is a stately and sophisticated margarita that artfully showcases the versatility of Mestiza Negra Mezcal. Created by Ryan Nord of The Grand in Sacramento, CA, this cocktail builds a complex, balanced base by shaking 1 oz of Mestiza Negra Mezcal, 1 oz of house-infused tequila (caramelized pineapple and blistered jalapeño), 0.25 oz of Cointreau, 0.5 oz of lemon-jalapeño shrub, and 0.75 oz of lime juice with ice. The mixture is double-strained into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice and topped with a splash of soda water. It is finished with a garnish of a skewered roasted-pineapple chunk, creating a seamless, "no rough edges" experience where the flavors of the drink and the garnish perfectly mirror one another.

Ingredients:

  • 1 oz Mestiza Negra Mezcal

  • 1 oz Tequila infused with caramelised pineapple and blistered jalapeño

  • .25 ozCointreau

  • .5 ozLemon-jalapeño shrub

  • .75 oz Lime juice

  • Touch soda water

Instructions:

  • Shake and double-strain into a rocks glass with ice cubes.

  • Garnish with a skewered roasted-pineapple chunk.

Attribution:
Recipe: Ryan Nord, The Grand, Sacramento, CA
Photo & Origin: Mestiza Negra

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