Grapefruit Mezcal Margaritas

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This cocktail takes is a unique twist on a smoky mezcal margarita (AKA a mezcalita) with the flavors of grapefruit, orange and the kick of ginger and has a festive pink color that makes it perfect for any day spring.

Why you should make these

I’ve been a mezcal lover for YEARS but when I go out to restaurants, I feel like most mezcal margaritas use very similar flavors (lime, jalapeño, sometimes mango). It’s entirely possible that I’m going to the wrong places for mezcal cocktails, but in the meantime I wanted to create a cocktail that merged my fave citrus flavor, grapefruit, with some of my other fave things (like ginger and orange), and in honor of Valentine’s Day, the original impetus for this recipe, I’ve named it Love on the Rocks. Here are a few reasons you should make this:

• It’s light, bright and refreshing: Thanks to the grapefruit juice and orange juice.
• It’s got a slightly spicy kick: The fresh ginger brings an unexpectedly spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor.
• The pink color is *chef’s kiss”: perfectly festive for Galentine’s Day, Valentine’s Day or any day, really.
• It’s so easy: Pour a bunch of liquids in a cocktail shaker and you’re done!

What ingredients do I need to make grapefruit mezcal margaritas

• Mezcal—white mezcal is better than gold
• Grapefruit juice—fresh squeezed is best
• Orange Marnier
• Orange bitters
• Fresh ginger
• Ice
• Lime wedges for serving

How to Make grapefruit mezcal margaritas

1. Place 1 cup of ice in a cocktail shaker.
2. Pour in 1 ½ ounces of mezcal over ice, then add the 2 ounces of grapefruit juice, ½ teaspoon of ginger, ½ Grand Marnier and 2 dashes of orange bitters.
3. Place crushed ice into two rocks glasses.
4. Secure lid and cover on top of the cocktail shaker and close and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds.
5. Pour the cocktail over the ice, garnish with lime wedges (optional) and serve!