Spicy Grapefruit & Mezcal Cocktail
Tequila's grown-up, more sophisticated relative, mezcal adds some serious oomph to any cocktail. Pairing with serrano chile and citrus results in the perfect blend of spice and heat without overpowering. Can we also just take a moment to admire the vibrancy of this drink? Gorgeous and delicious, just like a spring/summer cocktail should be. Cheers!
Takes: 5 minutes
Serves 1 (makes one 5 oz cocktail)
1.5 oz mezcal (VIDA de San Luis Del Rio is a good one for mixing and available at most liquor stores)
1.5 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice (about 1 juicy grapefruit)
1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice (about 1 juicy lime)
1 oz freshly squeezed orange juice (about half - 1 full orange)
Serrano chile, thinly sliced
Desert Provisions Sonoran Sea Salt
Cut all citrus in half and juice. Mix first four ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice. Mix vigorously. Using half of one lime, rub on rim of glass to coat. Rim glass with Sonoran Sea Salt. Add one or two large ice cubes to glass. Pour shaken cocktail through strainer into glass. Garnish with thinly sliced pieces of serrano chile. Sip and enjoy!
Cook's notes: Serrano peppers are our favorite pepper for this cocktail, but feel free to substitute jalapeño if that’s your preference. They are readily available at most grocery stores and share the same fresh, bright taste.
Not into mezcal? This drink is also just as delicious made with reposado tequila.
Interested to know a little more about the similarities and differences between mezcal and tequila? Check out this great overview by Food & Wine.
