Discover our mezcales, shipping to select U.S. states.

Mezcal Manhattan Cocktail Recipe

Mezcal Manhattan Cocktail Recipe

Twist on a Classic

Del Maguey reimagines the classic Manhattan with a smoky mezcal twist. This Mezcal Manhattan blends timeless elegance with the distinctive, smoky character of Oaxaca’s finest spirits.

Date
April 10, 2024

Ingredients

60 mlDel Maguey Vida Puebla
30 mlSweet Vermouth
2 dashesof Angostura Bitters
A cherry or an orange twist for garnish
Servings

Instructions

  1. Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to preparing a Mezcal Manhattan cocktail to remember:
  2. Chill your cocktail glass in the freezer.
  3. In a mixing glass, combine the mezcal, sweet vermouth, and bitters with ice.
  4. Stir well until the mixture is chilled.
  5. Strain into the chilled glass.
  6. Garnish with a cherry or an orange twist.
Top view of a smoky Mezcal Manhattan cocktail garnished with fresh orange peel. A bold twist on the classic Manhattan recipe.

Mezcal Manhattan cocktail variations to explore

The Mezcal Manhattan goes beyond being merely a cocktail; it’s an invitation to explore and discover new flavors. Let’s dive into how the classic Manhattan gets a new twist with mezcal, creating different versions of the drink for all tastes and occasions.

The Oaxacan Manhattan

This variation pays homage to the vibrant flavors of Oaxaca, substituting sweet vermouth with a dash of agave syrup to complement the mezcal’s smoky notes. A twist of orange peel adds a citrusy aroma, making the Oaxacan Manhattan a lighter, more refreshing version of its classic counterpart. Perfect for those seeking a sweet yet smoky cocktail experience.

The Spicy Mezcal Manhattan

For those who enjoy a bit of heat in their cocktails, the Spicy Mezcal Manhattan adds a slice of jalapeño to the mix, introducing a gentle warmth that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the vermouth and the deep smokiness of the mezcal.

And if spicy cocktails are your thing, you can also explore Del Maguey’s Spicy Mezcalita, a bold variation that highlights how chilli heat and mezcal’s smoky character come together in perfect balance.

The Manhattan Mezcal Sour

Combining the rich flavors of the Mezcal Manhattan with the smooth feel of a sour, this variation features a splash of lime juice and a bit of egg white. The acidity from the lime cuts through the smokiness of the mezcal, while the egg white gives the drink a creamy foam, creating a balanced cocktail with layers of flavor and texture.

Each of these variations on the Manhattan cocktail showcases the versatility of mezcal, inviting you to explore beyond the traditional boundaries of cocktail making. Whether you’re drawn to the refreshing zest of the Oaxacan Manhattan, the bold spiciness of the Spicy Mezcal Manhattan, or the balanced complexity of the Manhattan Mezcal Sour, there’s a Mezcal Manhattan variation waiting to be discovered and savored.

Selecting the best mezcal for your Manhattan

The key to a superb Mezcal Manhattan lies in the choice of mezcal. Del Maguey’s Vida Puebla mezcal offers a range of flavors that can transform your cocktail experience. From the subtly smoky to the robustly peaty, select a mezcal that best complements your cocktail’s profile.

Story and facts behind the Mezcal Manhattan

While the classic Manhattan has roots in New York City’s bar scene of the late 1800s, the Mezcal Manhattan is a contemporary twist that reflects the global appreciation for mezcal. This cocktail shows how flexible the spirit is and how easily it fits into well-loved classics.

Conclusion: Mastering the Mezcal Manhattan drink

Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or new to the world of cocktails, the Mezcal Manhattan offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich flavors of mezcal while enjoying the classic structure of a Manhattan. Dive into the world of Del Maguey, and let your creativity lead the way to mastering this smoky, sophisticated cocktail. We encourage you to try either the classic cocktail and the different Manhattan cocktail recipes variations or explore other Mezcal cocktail recipes.

Products we recommend

Classic Mezcal Manhattan cocktail served in elegant coupe glasses with a citrus twist. A smoky and sophisticated variation of the traditional Manhattan.

What Is Mezcal Manhattan?

Dive into the world of artisanal cocktails with Del Maguey, where we redefine the classic Manhattan by introducing the smoky touch of mezcal. The following recipe will take you through the creation of a Mezcal Manhattan, a cocktail that marries the timeless allure of a Manhattan with the distinct, smoky flavors of Oaxaca’s finest mezcal.

Similar cocktails

Thoughtful cocktails that let mezcal speak for itself.

Browse Cocktails
Oaxacana Old Fashioned Oaxacana Old Fashioned

The Oaxacana Old Fashioned is a refined twist on the classic, showcasing the smoky depth o…

Mezcal Manhattan Cocktail Recipe 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.