A new-school spin on an old classic – the Oaxacan Old Fashioned.
Death & Co. Oaxacan Old Fashioned
You are almost always guaranteed to find an Old Fashioned on any drink menu you come across. Some keep it traditional – Bourbon, Angostura bitters, orange peel. Some add a twist. Maybe they smoke the cocktail with cherry wood or hickory. Maybe they use an infused blood orange or grapefruit bitters. Today’s bartenders and mixologists are constantly reimagining classic recipes. The result is a new generation of craft cocktails that continue to expand into broader and broader flavor profiles.
The Oaxacan Old Fashioned is an innovative new look at the traditional Old Fashioned, swapping out the whiskey for a mix of smoky mezcal and smooth reposado tequila. The cocktail was created in 2007 by Phil Ward for the iconic East Village cocktail bar, Death & Co. Since its introduction, the cocktail has become a “modern classic” with variations showing up on drink menus around the globe.
How to Make an Oaxacan Old Fashioned
- 1½ ounces Reposado Tequila
- ½ ounce mezcal
- 1 teaspoon agave nectar
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Garnish: 1 orange twist
Combine all the ingredients with ice and stir. Strain into an old-fashioned glass over one large ice cube. Toast an orange twist over the drink and then drop it into the drink.
Mezcal and Tequila Recommendations
Vintegrity’s portfolio features dozens of authentic agave spirits from some of the top producers in the world, following centuries-old traditions and methods. Check out a few picks from Vintegrity to consider when crafting your own version of the Oaxacan Old Fashioned.
MEZCALS
Mezcal Vago Espadín by Joel
Profile is fruit-forward with notes of honey, caramelized banana, grilled pineapple, and lime.
Lucy Pistolas Salmiana-Cupreata
Defined by notes of tropical fruits, minerals, and roasted agave with a silky smooth mouthfeel.
5 Sentidos Jabalí
Unique combination of orange rind, pine resin, salted cod, and sandalwood aromas with notes of mango, dried red fruit, peppercorn, and smoke on the palate.
TEQUILAS
Tequila Ocho Reposado
Beautifully balanced notes of sweet cooked agave, spice, cinnamon, vanilla, and butterscotch.
Lagrimas del Valle La Sabina Reposado
Showcases a sweet, round profile with hints of toasted marshmallow, pumpkin pie filling, rich custard, citrus, and cream soda.
Siembra Valles Reposado
Harmonious fusion of cooked agave, light oak, citrus, mint, and baking spice aromas with flavors of vanilla, caramelized agave, citrus, butter, and cinnamon with a lingering peppery warmth.
