The Blueberry Mezcal Smash is a refreshing and vibrant cocktail that combines the smoky and earthy notes of mezcal with the sweetness of fresh blueberries. It is a delightful twist on the classic smash cocktail, featuring the unique flavor profile of mezcal and the bright burst of blueberries.
To craft a Blueberry Mezcal Smash, fresh blueberries are muddled to release their juicy flavors. The muddled blueberries are then combined with mezcal that imparts a distinctive smoky taste. The mixture is sweetened with a touch of agave nectar to balance the flavors.
To further enhance the complexity and depth of the cocktail a splash of lime juice is added. The lime brightens the drink, adding a zesty element that complements the sweetness of the blueberries.
It’s served over ice, topped with sparkling water, and garnished with blueberries. A small handful of blueberries will accompany most all the way through the drink. Biting into a blueberry after taking a sip adds another dimension. It offers a sudden burst of concentrated sweetness to squash the lingering smoke of the mezcal.
A Blueberry Mezcal Smash is perfect for those who enjoy complex and well-balanced libations. It offers a refreshing and slightly smoky twist on a traditional fruity cocktail, making it a delightful choice for summer gatherings or any occasion where you want to indulge in an equally creative and flavorful drink.
What is mezcal?
The history of mezcal dates back thousands of years and is deeply intertwined with the cultural heritage of Mexico. Mezcal is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant, specifically the varieties within the Agave genus.
The production of mezcal can be traced back to pre-Columbian times when indigenous communities in Mexico discovered and cultivated agave plants. The process of making mezcal has been handed down through generations, preserving traditional techniques and knowledge.
The origin of mezcal production is believed to be in the state of Oaxaca, although it is now produced in several regions across Mexico. The Zapotec and Mixtec cultures in Oaxaca were among the earliest civilizations to cultivate and ferment agave plants for alcoholic beverages. Mezcal played a significant role in their rituals, ceremonies, and daily life.
The Spanish conquest of Mexico in the 16th century brought about the introduction of European distillation techniques, which influenced the production of mezcal. The production methods evolved, incorporating copper stills and other advancements, but the traditional production process of mezcal, known as artisanal or ancestral, has been preserved in many regions.
One crucial aspect of mezcal production is the harvesting and cooking of the agave piñas (hearts). The piñas are traditionally roasted in underground pits lined with volcanic rocks, giving mezcal its distinctive smoky flavor. After roasting, the piñas are crushed and the juices are fermented before being distilled.
Read more about mezcal and it’s explosive growth below.
Blueberry Mezcal Smash
Course: CocktailsCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes5
minutes15
minutesThe Blueberry Mezcal Smash is a refreshing and vibrant cocktail that combines the smoky and earthy notes of mezcal with the sweetness of fresh blueberries.
Ingredients
1/2 cup 1/2 fresh blueberries
2 ounces 2 mezcal artesanal
1 ounce 1 agave syrup
1 ounce 1 lime juice, freshly squeezed
2-6 ounces 2-6 sparkling water (depending on how strong you like it)
blueberries for garnish
ice cubes
Directions
- Add the blueberries, lime juice, and agave to a cocktail shaker. Muddle thoroughly, releasing as much juice from the blueberries as possible.
- Add the mezcal, and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass filled halfway with ice. Top with sparkling water, and gently stir.
- Garnish with blueberries.