Choose a large rocks glass or a margarita glass that will hold about 12–14 oz. Pour a little coarse kosher or smoked salt onto a small plate. Run the lime wedge around the glass rim to moisten, then dip the rim into the salt to create an even salted rim. Set the glass aside.

Mix Cocktail Base

Shake

In a cocktail shaker, add 2 oz reposado tequila, 1 oz orange liqueur, 1 oz fresh lime juice, 0.5 oz agave syrup, and a handful of ice. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until well chilled and slightly diluted.

Fill the prepared glass about two-thirds full with fresh ice cubes. Strain the shaken margarita base into the glass over the ice.

Add Beer & Mezcal

Slowly pour 6 oz cold Budweiser into the glass by tilting the glass slightly and pouring gently to preserve carbonation and create a layered look. Leave a small gap at the top.

Using the back of a bar spoon (or pour very gently), float 0.25 oz smoked mezcal on top of the drink. This will add a subtle smoke aroma without overpowering the Budweiser or margarita flavors.

Garnish & Serve

Garnish with a thin lime wheel on the rim or floated on top. Optionally squeeze the reserved lime wedge over the drink for extra brightness, then drop it in. Serve immediately with a short straw so the drinker can experience the mezcal float aroma first.