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Carajillo

Carajillo

Twist on a Classic

A bold mezcal and espresso pairing.

Taste
Coffee, Rich, Sweet
Skill Level
Intermediate
Prep Time
6
Date
February 19, 2026

Ingredients

45 MLVIDA Puebla or Clásico
30 MLLicor 43
60 MLEspresso
Servings

Instructions

  1. Add all ingredients into a shaker with ice.
  2. Shake thoroughly until chilled.
  3. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh crushed ice.
  4. Garnish with fresh mint and powdered sugar.

Warmth and Contrast

The Carajillo pairs mezcal’s backbone with a shot of rich espresso. Spiced vanilla liqueur oozes smooth flavor while highlighting the roasted flavors. Chilled and crisp, it delivers layered aromas and texture. Bold yet approachable, sweet without weighing you down.

The balance of coffee and agave offers a modern interpretation of a classic pairing.

After Dinner Highlight

This cocktail is well-suited to evening settings where depth and warmth are appreciated.

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Carajillo

What Is the Carajillo?

The Carajillo is a bold pairing of mezcal and rich espresso, rounded out with spiced vanilla liqueur for a smooth, layered after-dinner serve.

Built on VIDA Puebla or Clásico, it keeps the roasted coffee notes and the agave backbone in balance — chilled, crisp and aromatic, sweet without ever feeling heavy.

Three ingredients, carefully measured: it’s a modern interpretation of a classic pairing that’s easy to repeat whenever the evening calls for depth and warmth.

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Carajillo FAQ

Any expression works — the recipe lists our recommendation. Vida Clásico and Vida Puebla are approachable, versatile choices for most cocktails, while single village expressions like Chichicapa or Tobalá add more distinctive character.
Del Maguey mezcales are balanced rather than aggressively smoky. In a cocktail, the smoke softens into a warm, roasted-agave depth — citrus, sweetness, and dilution round it out, so the drink stays bright and easy to enjoy.
We recommend freshly squeezed every time. Bottled juice loses the aromatic oils and bright acidity that balance the mezcal, and the difference is easy to taste in a three- or four-ingredient recipe.
Yes. Agave syrup and simple syrup are usually interchangeable, most orange liqueurs can stand in for each other, and garnishes are flexible. Keep the mezcal, the citrus, and the proportions, and the drink will hold together.
Use the Shop Now link at the top of the page to order online, or Find Us to locate a store or bar near you that carries Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal.