Don Julio Anejo Recipe

1. Chill glass

Place an old-fashioned glass (rocks glass) in the freezer for 5–10 minutes or fill it with ice water while you prepare the drink to ensure the cocktail stays cold.

2. Combine ingredients

In a mixing glass or shaker filled halfway with ice, pour 2 oz Don Julio Añejo tequila, 0.5 oz fresh lime juice, 0.25 oz agave nectar, 0.25 oz orange liqueur and add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters.

3. Stir (preferred) or shake

Stir the mixture for 20–30 seconds with a bar spoon if you want a silky, slightly diluted result. If you prefer a brighter, more aerated texture, shake vigorously for 8–10 seconds. Stirring is recommended for Añejo to preserve texture and clarity.

4. Prepare glass

Remove the chilled glass from the freezer or discard the ice water and add 2–3 large ice cubes to the glass.

5. Strain

Strain the mixed cocktail from the mixing glass into the prepared old-fashioned glass over the large ice cubes using a hawthorne strainer or julep strainer.

6. Garnish

Express the oils from the orange twist over the surface of the cocktail by holding the twist skin-side down about 3–4 inches above the glass and giving it a firm fold to spray the oils, then rub the rim with the peel and drop it into the drink. Add a lime wheel or wedge to the rim or float it on top.

7. Optional flamed orange peel

For a smoky aromatic finish, hold the orange peel over the drink with the skin side facing a lit match or lighter. Quickly squeeze the peel to release a burst of oils through the flame toward the surface of the cocktail (exercise caution). Drop the peel into the glass.

8. Serve immediately with a short stirring spoon on the side so the drinker may re-stir as the ice gently melts.