Name: Mexican Mule
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 1½ ounces blanco tequila; 1½ ounces ginger syrup; ½ ounce mezcal; ½ ounce lime juice , plus lime slice for garnishing; 5 ounces seltzer , chilled

Why This Recipe Works

Here we replace the neutral-flavored vodka with two agave-based spirits, as tied to Mexico as vodka (once) was to Russia: crisp blanco tequila and earthy, smoky mezcal. A 3:1 ratio of tequila to mezcal provides enough smokiness without overwhelming the drink, allowing the lime and ginger to come through for a sweet, spicy, smoky sip.

Instructions

Fill chilled mule mug halfway with ice. Add 1½ ounces blanco tequila, 1½ ounces ginger syrup, ½ ounce mezcal, and ½ ounce lime juice and stir, using bar spoon, until combined. Add 5 ounces chilled seltzer and, using spoon, gently lift tequila mixture from bottom of mug to top to combine. Top with additional ice and garnish with lime slice. Serve.