Burnt Sage Mezcal Cocktail Recipe

Quick infusion

Lightly bruise the 8 fresh sage leaves between your fingers to release oils. In a clean jar, combine 6 oz mezcal and the bruised sage leaves with 0.5 oz simple syrup. Seal and let sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes, swirling the jar gently every 5 minutes. Taste after 15 minutes — you want a bright herbal note without becoming soapy. Once it reaches the desired intensity, strain the mezcal through a fine mesh strainer (or cheesecloth) into a clean container, discarding the leaves. Keep the infused mezcal at room temperature until ready to build the cocktail.

Prepare glass and optional rim

If using smoked sea salt, rub the lime wheel around the glass rim and dip lightly into the smoked sea salt to coat. Set the glass aside. If not using a rim, chill the glass in the freezer for a few minutes.

Build and chill

Fill a cocktail shaker with large ice. Add 2.5 oz of the sage-infused mezcal (see yield note), 0.75 oz fresh lime juice, and 0.5 oz orange liqueur. Shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds until well chilled and slightly diluted.

Burn the sage sprig

Hold the single sage sprig by the stem with tongs or between fingers and carefully ignite the tip with a lighter or match. Let it flame for 2–3 seconds, then gently blow out the flame so the sage is smoldering and releasing smoke. (Do this over a small metal dish or sink to catch any ash.) Immediately place the burning sage briefly inside the chilled glass and then remove so the smoke lingers in the glass.

Strain and finish

Strain the shaken cocktail into the prepared glass over a large ice cube or sphere. Gently wave the smoldering sage sprig across the top of the drink to impart additional smoky aromatics, then rest it on the rim or place it as a garnish on the ice. Optionally add a lime wheel on the rim. Serve immediately so the smoky aroma is prominent.

If any ash falls into the drink while flaming the sage, fish it out with a spoon or discard and re-make the drink — appearance is important. Advise guests to gently blow out the sage before sipping to avoid inhaling embers. For a stronger burnt note, briefly torch the rimmed sage leaf with a kitchen torch until it chars slightly, then present alongside the cocktail.