Crafting the Oaxaca Old Fashioned: Insights from Death & Co's Phil Ward

Ever swirl a drink and feel like you're holding a masterpiece in your hand? Well, the Oaxaca Old Fashioned may just give you that sensation. Born from the creative genius of Phil Ward at the iconic cocktail bar, Death & Co, this drink marries the familiar with the exotic, the smoky with the smooth. Let’s take a spirited journey into this cocktail’s creation and uncover a few trade secrets along the way.

What's in a Name?

The name "Oaxaca Old Fashioned" is as much a nod to its roots as it is a play on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. Oaxaca, a region in Mexico, is famed for its rich culinary traditions and, perhaps more importantly, its distinctive mezcal production. Mezcal, with its signature smoky flavor, is at the heart of this cocktail.

Why It Matters

The Oaxaca Old Fashioned isn’t just any drink—it’s an homage to tradition infused with modern flair. For cocktail enthusiasts, exploring mezcal through this creation is an intriguing venture into complex flavors and cultural appreciation.

The Phil Ward Approach

Phil Ward, renowned for his craft and creativity, didn’t just wake up one day and pencil out this recipe; it's the result of careful experimentation and a profound understanding of balance in cocktails. His approach? Keep it simple but let each element shine.

Ingredients:

• 45 ml of reposado tequila
• 15 ml of mezcal
• A dash of Angostura bitters
• 7.5 ml of agave nectar

Crafting the Perfect Oaxaca Old Fashioned

1. The Spirit Base: Combine 45 ml of reposado tequila with 15 ml of mezcal in a mixing glass. The reposado offers a smooth complexity with a touch of oak aging, while the mezcal lends its smoky essence.
2. Balance with Bitters: Add a dash of Angostura bitters. Just enough to round out the flavors without overwhelming the spirit.
3. Sweeten the Deal: Stir in 7.5 ml of agave nectar. It's less processed than regular sugar, and its caramel-like flavor complements the spirits beautifully.
4. Mix and Chill: Add ice to your concoction and stir for about 30 seconds. The goal here is to chill without watering down the complexity.
5. Serve with a Twist: Strain into an Old Fashioned glass over a single large ice cube and garnish with an orange twist. The citrus oils will enhance the drink’s aromas as you sip.

Tips from the Master

• Ice Matters: Phil always advises using a single, large ice cube. It melts slowly, ensuring your drink stays cool and diluted at the perfect pace.
• Stay True to Proportions: The balance of ingredients is key. Too much mezcal, and it's overpowering; not enough, and you miss the smoky charm.
• Quality Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality spirits. Your cocktail is only as good as what goes into it.

Savor the Taste of Oaxaca

For the adventurous palate or even the casual drinker searching for something new, the Oaxaca Old Fashioned is a ticket to both complexity and comfort. It’s a cocktail that tells a story—of a time, a place, and a legendary bartender’s quest for perfection.

So next time you find yourself reaching for a cocktail shaker, why not channel a bit of Phil Ward's magic? Mix, stir, sip, and savor the taste of Oaxaca, one artfully crafted drink at a time. Cheers to exploring unique flavors and celebrating the marriage of tradition and innovation!