Tequila Smash

Photo by Michael Piazza / Styled by Catrine Kelty

I was inspired by the Oaxacan Old Fashioned (published in the Death & Co. Cocktail Book) and blended the reposado tequila–mezcal combination from that drink in the style of a Whiskey Smash. Knowing that sage complements agave spirits, I began serving this libation in summer 2017 using fresh sage from the restaurant’s herb garden. The format works just as well with mezcal or a 2-1 ratio blend of the two spirits.

Makes 1 drink

½ lime, cut into wedges
2–4 leaves sage, depending on size
2 ounces blanco tequila (see variations below)
½ ounce agave syrup

Muddle the lime wedges and sage. Add the tequila and agave syrup, shake with ice and double strain into a double Old Fashioned or similar tumbler-style glass. Fill with crushed ice, garnish with a sage sprig and add a straw. 

(Note: Agave syrup is equal parts agave nectar and hot water whisked together until uniform; simple syrup will work here in a pinch. For variations, mezcal in place of the tequila makes a great smoky Smash; for the Oaxacan Smash, utilize 1½ ounces reposado tequila and ½ ounce mezcal.)

This recipe appeared in the Summer 2022 issue as part of a larger story, Make This Summer a Smash.