Honey In The Mojave Recipe

Make sage-infused mezcal (ahead or quick)

For best aroma, make this at least 1 hour ahead. Tear 2 large sage leaves into large pieces and place into a clean 3–4 oz jar. Add 2 oz mezcal and let steep at room temperature for 1–4 hours for a bright, herbal note; for a quicker option, gently muddle a single sage leaf in the mezcal for 30–60 seconds and let sit 10–15 minutes. Strain through a fine mesh and reserve 0.5 oz per cocktail.

Make honey syrup

Combine equal parts raw honey and hot water (1:1 by volume). Stir until dissolved and cool. Measure 0.75 oz per cocktail. Store extra refrigerated up to 2 weeks.

Place the smoked or flaky salt on a small plate. Rub a lime wedge around the glass rim, then dip the rim into the salt to coat. Fill the glass with 1–2 large ice cubes to chill while you mix the drink.

In a shaker, add the 2 fresh jalapeño slices (adjust to taste — remove seeds for milder spice). Gently muddle once or twice to release oils and a hint of heat; avoid pulverizing into a paste so the cocktail remains balanced.

To the muddled jalapeño in the shaker, add 1.5 oz añejo tequila, 0.5 oz sage-infused mezcal, 0.75 oz honey syrup, 0.75 oz fresh lime juice, and 2 dashes Angostura bitters.

Add a handful of ice (about 6 large cubes), cap the shaker, and shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds until the shaker is well chilled and slightly frosted.

Dump the ice from the chilled serving glass, then double-strain the cocktail into the glass over fresh large ice (or serve neat in a chilled coupe if preferred). Double-straining removes jalapeño fragments for a clean texture.

Express a fresh sage leaf over the drink by holding it near the surface and giving a quick clap with your other hand to release essential oils; drop the leaf onto the cocktail. Float a thin jalapeño wheel (and optional lime wheel) on top for visual contrast and an extra aromatic hit.

Taste and adjust: if you want more smoke, add another 0.25 oz sage-infused mezcal; for more heat, briefly muddle an extra jalapeño slice into the shaker next time. Serve immediately.