The Best Mezcal Margarita Cocktail Recipe

Make an unforgettable Mezcal Margarita with a hint of smokiness! Includes instructions for both ONE serving, and a PITCHER of delicious margaritas made with Mezcal.

I love a good margarita! To me, margaritas have a perfect balance of flavors; they’re a bit tart, a bit sweet and a bit salty! But have you tried Mezcal? I LOVE it! It’s like tequila, but has a much smokier flavor, which makes it an excellent addition to cocktails like this Mezcal Margarita recipe! Mezcal cocktails like this one take your classic margarita recipe and give it a smoky spin! 

I believe that you’ll love this recipe whether you just want one margarita or a whole pitcher, because I include instructions for both! For this recipe, I use fresh fruit juices, Mezcal (of course), Grand Marnier (orange liqueur), and simple syrup for a touch of sweetness. A fresh margarita is SO much better than a margarita mix! It’s hard to put in words how much tastier it is. You’ll just have to try it out for yourself!

What is Mezcal?

Mezcal is a distinctive Mexican liquor made from agave plants, the same plant used to make tequila. Where the two liquors differ is that mezcal is made from agave plants that have been roasted first, giving the Mezcal a smoky, earthy flavor. 

Mezcal is made using agave hearts. This meaty piece of agave is trimmed and roasted underground in a pit with rocks and wood. Once roasted, they’re crushed to extract their juices. 

The juices will then ferment over the course of weeks, allowing their unique flavors to develop. After fermenting, the juice is distilled and aged to allow it’s signature smokiness to deepen and smooth out. 

Mezcal makers pass the secrets of their craftsmanship down through generations, making mezcal a uniquely Mexican spirit! 

If you don’t have Mezcal, you can certainly use tequila for this margarita recipe! just substitute your favorite brand. I love using anejo style tequila, which has been aged and tends to be a bit smoother. It has a LOT less bite!

Recipe Substitutions 

This refreshing cocktail is versatile and has plenty of substitutions! I have plenty of suggestions, below: 

• Mezcal: You’ll love the smoky flavor of Mezcal style tequila. You can substitute with tequila if you prefer.
• Lime Juice: Use fresh citrus juice for the best flavor. Substitute lemon juice if needed!
• Orange Juice: Use freshly squeezed juice for best flavor. Substitute grapefruit juice for an extra tart twist. 
• Grand Marnier: This orange liquor is what is used in traditional top shelf margaritas. However, you can substitute with Cointreau or Triple Sec. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, making your own orange liqueur using this Triple Sec recipe.
• Simple Syrup: I used regular simple syrup for this cocktail recipe because it’s the most accessible option. However, you can substitute any variety of sweet syrups, even maple syrup! Or try agave syrup for extra agave goodness!
• Kosher Salt or Sea Salt: This is an optional garnish you can use to make a salted rim. Just dip the rim of your glass in water, then in the salt. You can also buy pre-made margarita salt. This option will often have dehydrated lime in it for extra flavor! 
• Ice
• Lime wedges/slices: For garnish, optional

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, making your own orange liqueur using this Triple Sec recipe.

If you don’t have Mezcal, you can certainly use tequila for this margarita recipe! just substitute your favorite brand. I love using anejo style tequila, which has been aged and tends to be a bit smoother. It has a LOT less bite!

Recipe Additions

Spicy Rim: Add a pinch of chili powder to the salt for the rim for a spicy salt rim. 

Spicy Mezcal Margarita: If you prefer a spicy margarita, add 1-2 slices of jalapeño pepper to each glass. Allow the drink to rest for 1-2 minutes before serving to allow the pepper to infuse the liquid. You can also add a splash of the liquid from canned jalapenos. 

Serving Suggestions

This Mezcal Margarita recipe is perfect served with Baked Fish Tacos, Flank Steak Tacos or Shrimp Tacos! Add a side of Cilantro Lime Slaw or Esquites.

Or, keep it simple and serve this margarita with chips and salsa or queso dip!