15 Must-Try Mezcal Cocktails

If you love bold, smoky flavors in your drinks, you’re in for a treat with this collection of mezcal cocktails. Mezcal brings a rich, earthy depth that instantly elevates any cocktail—think of it as tequila’s cooler, moodier cousin.

From fresh citrusy sippers to fruity twists and a little heat here and there, these mezcal cocktails are perfect for happy hour, weekend get-togethers, or whenever you’re craving something a little different. They’re easy to make at home and guaranteed to impress—no fancy bar tools required.

What is Mezcal?

Mezcal is a distilled spirit made from the agave plant, and it’s been part of Mexican tradition for centuries—long before it became a bar menu favorite. While tequila is the most well-known version (made only from blue agave), mezcal can be made from many different agave varieties. That means the flavor can vary a lot depending on the type of agave used, where it’s grown, and how it’s made. Most mezcal still comes from Oaxaca, where small, family-run distilleries (called palenques) stick to traditional methods that go back generations—like roasting agave hearts in underground pits and distilling in clay or copper pots.

Even though mezcal has deep roots in Mexican culture, its official definition is a bit more recent. For a bottle to be legally labeled as mezcal, it has to be made in one of a handful of designated Mexican states and certified by a regulatory organization. But don’t let labels fool you—true mezcal is about process and tradition. The best bottles aren’t just smoky and complex, they also tell a story of the land and the people who made them. It’s a spirit that’s meant to be sipped slowly and shared—preferably with good company.