Watermelon Mezcal Cooler

The Watermelon Mezcal Cooler is a cocktail that embodies the essence of summer with its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors. This unique drink combines the smoky depth of mezcal with the bright, tangy notes of lime, the bittersweet complexity of Aperol and orange bitters, and the sweet juiciness of watermelon, all enhanced by a hint of spice from Tajin seasoning. It’s a delightful fusion that perfectly balances sweet, smoky, tangy, and spicy elements, making it an ideal choice for any occasion, especially during the warmer months.

The journey to creating this cocktail begins with preparing fresh watermelon cubes. Watermelon, a quintessential summer fruit, provides a refreshing and hydrating base for the cocktail. By cutting the watermelon into cubes and freezing them, you not only preserve their natural sweetness but also create a frosty texture that eliminates the need for additional ice. This step ensures that the drink remains undiluted, maintaining the intensity of its flavors.

Mezcal, the star of this cocktail, adds a distinctive smoky flavor that sets it apart from other summer beverages. Derived from the agave plant and traditionally produced in Mexico, mezcal’s complex profile brings a depth of character to the drink. Its smoky notes pair beautifully with the sweetness of the watermelon, creating a harmonious blend that is both intriguing and satisfying.

Aperol, an Italian aperitif known for its bittersweet taste, introduces a layer of complexity to the Watermelon Mezcal Cooler. Its subtle bitterness complements the sweetness of the watermelon and the smokiness of the mezcal, adding a sophisticated edge to the cocktail. Freshly squeezed lime juice provides the necessary acidity, brightening the overall flavor and balancing the sweetness and smokiness with a zesty punch.

Agave syrup, a natural sweetener derived from the agave plant, enhances the drink’s sweetness without overpowering it. Its smooth consistency and mild flavor make it an excellent addition, seamlessly blending with the other ingredients. Orange bitters add a final touch of complexity, bringing a subtle citrus aroma and a hint of bitterness that rounds out the flavor profile.

The preparation of the Watermelon Mezcal Cooler is simple yet effective. Blending the frozen watermelon cubes with mezcal, Aperol, lime juice, agave syrup, and orange bitters results in a smooth, frosty concoction that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The final touch is the garnish: a sprinkle of Tajin seasoning over the top of the cocktail adds a spicy, tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the watermelon. A lime wedge and a watermelon cube complete the presentation, adding a touch of elegance and freshness.

Each sip of this cocktail offers a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate, making it a perfect choice for sipping by the pool, enjoying a barbecue, or simply relaxing on a warm evening. The Watermelon Mezcal Cooler is a testament to the beauty of combining diverse ingredients to create a harmonious and refreshing beverage. Whether you’re a fan of mezcal or new to its unique flavor, this cocktail is sure to impress and delight.

Watermelon Mezcal Cooler

Recipe by Kyle Taylor

5.0 from 2 votes

Course: CocktailsCuisine: FusionDifficulty: Easy

Servings

1

servings

Total time

4

hours 

The Watermelon Mezcal Cooler is a refreshing cocktail that blends smoky mezcal, bittersweet Aperol, tangy lime, and sweet watermelon, finished with a hint of Tajin spice.

Ingredients

• 2 cups watermelon, cut into cubes

• 2 ounces mezcal

• 1 ounce aperol

• 1 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed

• 1 ounce agave syrup

• 2 dashes of orange bitters

• for garnish, tajin

Directions

• Prepare and Freeze the Watermelon:
  Cut fresh watermelon into cubes, removing the rind and any seeds. Place the watermelon cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the watermelon cubes for 4 to 6 hours, preferably overnight, until solid.
• Blend the Cocktail:
  In a blender, combine the frozen watermelon cubes, mezcal, Aperol, fresh lime juice, agave syrup, and orange bitters. Blend until smooth.
• Serve:
  Pour the blended cocktail into a glass. Sprinkle Tajin seasoning over the top of the finished cocktail. Garnish with a lime wedge and a watermelon cube.
  

If you want a dish that complements this cocktail, try Chicken Mole with Sautéed Peas and Mushrooms. The rich, complex mole sauce and savory chicken pair wonderfully with the Watermelon Mezcal Cooler’s refreshing sweetness and smoky mezcal notes. The crisp watermelon and earthy mushrooms create a balanced, satisfying dining experience, making this pairing perfect for any occasion.