Mezcal Old Fashioned: A Rich, Earthy Reinvention of a Classic
Flavor Profile: Earthy, Rich, Vibrant
Walking the line between tropical vibrance and layered depth, our Mezcal Old Fashioned showcases the Fósforo Ensamble's earthy elegance with pineapple syrup, crème de cacao, and a spiced blend of mole and orange bitters.
How to Make a Mezcal Old Fashioned:
2 oz. Fósforo Mezcal Ensamble
1 tsp. Tempus Fugit Crème de Cacao
½ oz. Pineapple Syrup
2 Dashes Mole Bitters
1 Dash Orange Bitters
Stir all ingredients with ice in a mixing glass until well chilled. Strain into an old fashioned glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with the peel of an orange.
The Mezcal Old Fashioned takes a timeless cocktail and reimagines it through the lens of smoky agave, tropical fruit, and spiced nuance. Built on the backbone of Fósforo Mezcal Ensamble, this version replaces the traditional sugar cube with pineapple syrup, and adds layers of depth through mole bitters, orange bitters, and a touch of crème de cacao. It’s a cocktail that honors its roots while leaning into vibrant, modern flair.
Discover how our mezcal is crafted in Puebla using artesanal techniques on our process page.
Why Fósforo for an Old Fashioned?
Fósforo Ensamble is mezcal from Puebla, made from Espadilla and Tobalá agave. Its earthy richness and subtly smoky profile make it a bold, nuanced base for spirit-forward cocktails. The Ensamble’s natural complexity – featuring notes of papaya, white pepper, and roasted agave – pairs beautifully with pineapple’s tropical brightness and the subtle warmth of chocolate and spice.
This is not your typical Old Fashioned. It’s a mezcal cocktail designed for those who appreciate tradition – but aren't afraid to break the mold.
The History of the Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Old Fashioned is widely considered one of the earliest cocktail recipes on record, dating back to the early 1800s. Traditionally made with whiskey, sugar, and bitters, the Old Fashioned has long been a symbol of simplicity and sophistication. In recent years, bartenders have explored riffs using aged rum, tequila, and – most notably – mezcal.
The Mezcal Old Fashioned brings new dimension to the classic by building on the rich flavor of mezcal from Puebla with pineapple syrup and mole bitters, this variation pays tribute to the Old Fashioned’s history while offering something utterly original.
Flavor Tips & Modifications
More Bitter? Add an extra dash of mole bitters to increase the spice and cocoa profile.
Sweeter Variation? Adjust the amount of pineapple syrup for a fruit-forward balance.
No Crème de Cacao? Substitute with a small amount of chocolate bitters or a cacao liqueur alternative.
FAQ: Mezcal Old Fashioned with Fósforo Ensamble
Q: What makes this Mezcal Old Fashioned different from the classic?
A: This variation uses mezcal instead of whiskey and features pineapple syrup, crème de cacao, and mole bitters for a vibrant, layered flavor with smoky, tropical, and spiced elements.
Q: Can I make this without crème de cacao?
A: Yes. While crème de cacao adds richness, you can substitute with chocolate bitters or omit it for a drier profile.
Q: Is this mezcal cocktail sweet?
A: It’s subtly sweet from the pineapple syrup and liqueur, but balanced by the mezcal’s smokiness and the complexity of the bitters.
Q: What’s the best type of ice for this cocktail?
A: A large single cube or sphere helps keep the drink cold without diluting the spirit-forward balance too quickly.
Q: Can I batch this for a party?
A: Yes! Pre-mix the ingredients (without ice), chill in advance, and stir with ice before serving to maintain texture and balance.
