Mezcal is known as tequila’s cousin. Both are made with agave. However, mezcal can be made with any type of agave plant whereas tequila has to be made from majority blue agave. Another major distinction in mezcal is how the agave is first cooked, which gives it its smoky flavor. Given this flavor profile, it is important to consider the other flavors mixed with it. Let the smoky flavor shine through and avoid a bad flavor combination.

This recipe was inspired by a recipe created by bartender Drew Pompa. The tropical flavors of pine- apple and coconut create a great combination with mezcal. The creamy coconut cream mellows the smoky mezcal, yet the measurements still allow its smoke flavor to take center stage.

ingredients (for 2)

3.0 oz. Gem & Bolt mezcal
1.0 oz. lemon juice
1.5 oz. pineapple juice
4.0 oz. coconut cream
8 packets demerara sugar

Directions:
Make the coconut syrup: combine coconut cream with sugar in a small pan. Bring to a boil. Simmer on medium heat for 1 minute. Let cool.

In a shaker, combine pineapple juice, mezcal, lemon juice and 1 oz. of the coconut syrup mixture. Add ice. Shake for 20 seconds to combine. Strain among two coupe glasses.