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© 2026 Cezzis.com | All rights reserved.
The Oaxaca Old Fashioned represents a brilliant reimagining of one of the world's most beloved cocktails—a sophisticated blend of mezcal, reposado tequila, agave nectar, and bitters that transforms the classic Old Fashioned into a celebration of Mexican spirits and flavors. Created by Phil Ward at Death & Co. in New York, this innovative cocktail has become a modern classic.
The Oaxaca Old Fashioned was developed in the late 2000s at Death & Co., a venue that has become synonymous with the modern craft cocktail movement. Phil Ward, inspired by the rich tradition of Mexican spirits and the classic Old Fashioned structure, created this cocktail as a way to showcase mezcal's complexity while honoring the original's elegant simplicity.
Mezcal, the star ingredient, has a rich history dating back centuries in Oaxaca, Mexico. Made from roasted agave hearts, mezcal is known for its distinctive smoky character and complex flavor profile. The Oaxaca Old Fashioned cleverly uses mezcal's smokiness as a foundation, building upon it with reposado tequila to create a drink that's both traditional and innovative.
The Oaxaca Old Fashioned maintains the classic Old Fashioned structure—spirit, sweetener, and bitters—while replacing bourbon with a blend of mezcal and tequila. This approach demonstrates how modern bartenders can honor classic cocktails while introducing new ingredients and flavors. The result is a drink that feels both familiar and excitingly new.
What makes the Oaxaca Old Fashioned particularly compelling is its ability to showcase the diversity and quality of Mexican spirits. By combining mezcal's smokiness with tequila's smoothness, the cocktail creates a complex flavor profile that honors both spirits while creating something entirely new. This approach has helped introduce many drinkers to the world of premium Mexican spirits.
The Oaxaca Old Fashioned arrived during a pivotal moment when agave spirits were gaining recognition among cocktail enthusiasts. The cocktail's success helped establish mezcal as a legitimate cocktail ingredient, demonstrating that the spirit could be used in sophisticated drinks that appealed to discerning palates.
Since its creation, the Oaxaca Old Fashioned has gained popularity worldwide, appearing on menus from New York to London to Tokyo. Its appeal transcends cultural boundaries, making it a favorite among both professional bartenders and home enthusiasts. The cocktail's success has helped establish Mexican spirits as essential ingredients in modern mixology.
The Oaxaca Old Fashioned stands as a testament to the creativity and innovation of the modern cocktail renaissance. By combining traditional Mexican spirits with classic cocktail structure, it creates a drink that honors both traditions while creating something entirely new and exciting.
The Oaxaca Old Fashioned's enduring popularity lies in its perfect balance of tradition and innovation—it honors the classic Old Fashioned while celebrating the rich tradition of Mexican spirits. Whether enjoyed in a sophisticated cocktail bar or recreated at home, it serves as a reminder that the best modern cocktails often bridge different cultures and traditions. 🍹🌵🇲🇽