M&M: A Stirred, Spice-Forward Mezcal & Amaro Classic

A Fósforo Mezcal M&M in a Rocks Glass with an Orange Peel Garnish

Flavor Profile: Herbal, Floral, Spice-forward

A "stirred & strong" rendition of the bartender's handshake, our M&M marries the vibrant Ensamble with the herbaceousness and spice of a classic Italian amaro.

Learn how Fósforo is made in Puebla on our mezcal production page.

How to Make the M&M Cocktail

1 ½ oz. Fósforo Mezcal Ensamble 
½ oz. Amaro Montenegro
1 Dash Chocolate Bitters (Optional)

Measure ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well chilled and strain into a chilled old fashioned glass with ice. Garnish with the peel of an orange.

Why Use Fósforo Mezcal in the M&M?

Fósforo Mezcal Ensamble, crafted from Espadilla and Tobalá agave, is refined, expressive, and ideal for stirred cocktails. With notes of papaya, white pepper, and dry earth, it harmonizes beautifully with the orange blossom, coriander, and spice notes found in Amaro Montenegro.

This mezcal and Montenegro cocktail is spirit-forward and herbal, delivering a balanced blend of smoke, floral sweetness, and subtle bitterness with just two (or three) ingredients.

The Bartender’s Handshake, Reimagined

The bartender’s handshake is a long-standing tradition in the industry – often a small, thoughtful pour shared among colleagues. The M&M channels this spirit with a stirred, no-frills build that’s all about ingredients in harmony.

By pairing mezcal with amaro, this cocktail speaks to modern bar culture: adventurous, global, and grounded in respect for both tradition and innovation.

Tips for Serving the M&M

  • Use a large ice cube to chill without diluting too quickly.

  • Optional bitters add a cocoa-rich base note that complements both spirits.

  • Want a twist? Try a lemon peel instead of orange for a brighter aromatic finish.

FAQ: M&M with Fósforo Mezcal and Amaro Montenegro

Q: What kind of cocktail is the M&M?
A: It’s a “stirred & strong” cocktail with just mezcal, amaro, and optional bitters – ideal for slow sipping and spirit-forward fans.

Q: What does Amaro Montenegro taste like?
A: It’s an Italian amaro with soft orange, vanilla, clove, and floral spice notes. It balances the smoke and minerality of mezcal beautifully.

Q: Can I substitute the amaro?
A: You can try other medium-sweet, citrus-forward amaros like Averna or Lucano, though the flavor will shift.

Q: Is this drink very smoky?
A: Fósforo Mezcal has a clean, nuanced smoke – less intense than many mezcals – making it ideal for pairing with botanicals and bitters.

Q: What glassware should I use?
A: A chilled old fashioned glass with a large cube is ideal.

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