Los Altos Cocktail: the perfect Tequila and Mezcal balance

The Los Altos Cocktail is a refreshing, bold drink that brings together the rich, smoky complexity of mezcal and the smooth, balanced finish of tequila.

This cocktail, inspired by the flavors of Mexico’s highlands, offers a perfect harmony of earthiness, citrus, and sweetness.

Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to craft this vibrant cocktail and travel together to the field of Jalisco and Oaxaca.

Ingredients for the perfect Los Altos Cocktail

To prepare the Better and Better cocktail you will need:

• 1/2 oz Mezcal (Del Maguey Vida Clásico)
• 1 1/2 oz Tequila (Altos Plata Tequila)
• 1 1/2 oz Pineapple Juice 
• 1/2 oz Simple Syrup 
• 1/2 oz Lime Juice 
• Lime wheel or a twist of lime zest (for garnish)

Step by Step to make Los Altos Cocktail

Follow these steps to make the perfect Los Altos Cocktail:

• Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
• Pour in the Mezcal, the tequila, the pineapple juice, the simple syrup and the lime juice.
• Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds or when the shaker feels quite cold.
• Strain the cocktail into a rocks or a tall glass filled with fresh ice.
• Garnish with a lime wheel or a twist of lime zest to add a fresh, citrus aroma.
• Optional: Express the lime twist over the drink to release those citrus oils before droping it.

Variations of the Los Altos Cocktail

The Los Altos cocktail is versatile and can be adapted to suit different flavors. You can explore with this variations:

Smoky Los Altos

For an even smokier twist, increase the mezcal portion to 1.5 oz and reduce the tequila to 0.5 oz. This variation will appeal to mezcal lovers who want the taste of the smokiness to shine.

Spicy Los Altos Cocktail

 Add a slice of jalapeño or muddle a small piece of chili pepper in the shaker before adding the other ingredients for a spicy kick.

Choosing the Best Mezcal for Los Altos Cocktail

For the Los Altos Cocktail, we recommend using Del Maguey Vida Clásico . This particular mezcal offers a balanced flavor profile that works beautifully in cocktails and it’s a nice entrance to the beautiful world of Mezcal.

Vida Clásico brings a soft smokiness complemented by hints of tropical fruit, cinnamon, and vanilla. Its approachable character doesn’t overpower the other ingredients, allowing the highland tequila to shine through while adding depth and complexity to the cocktail.