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Oaxacan Old Fashioned
Posted: July 21, 2026
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About
The Oaxacan Old Fashioned is one of the most influential cocktails of the modern era, created by Phil Ward at Death & Co in New York City in 2007. A bold riff on the classic Old Fashioned, it swaps bourbon for a combination of reposado tequila and mezcal, sweetened with agave nectar instead of sugar and accented with Angostura bitters. The result is smoky, earthy, and deeply complex — the tequila brings agave sweetness and warmth while the mezcal adds a captivating smokiness that lingers on the finish. This drink is widely credited with introducing mezcal to a generation of cocktail drinkers and remains a must-order at serious cocktail bars worldwide.
Instructions
- Combine reposado tequila, mezcal, agave nectar, and Angostura bitters in a mixing glass.
- Add ice and stir for about 30 seconds until well chilled and properly diluted.
- Strain over a large single ice cube in a rocks glass.
- Express an orange peel over the surface of the drink to release the oils, run it around the rim, then place it in the glass as garnish.