The Full Monte: A Smoky Mezcal Cocktail Recipe
Sep 17, 2025
Discover the ultimate smoky mezcal cocktail with our 'Full Monte' recipe. This unique and bold drink perfectly balances the rich, smoky flavors of mezcal with hints of agave and bitter notes, making it an unforgettable experience. This recipe was created by Kat Whyte for The Basement Bar in Edinburgh, Scotland, and is a fantastic way to enjoy a sophisticated smoky mezcal cocktail.
The Full Monte Cocktail Recipe
This recipe makes one cocktail.
Ingredients
- 1.25 oz mezcal (Kat used Montelobos)
- .5 oz tequila (Kat used Tequila Cabeza)
- .33 oz Campari
- .33 oz agave
- 2 dashes El Guapo™ Fuego Bitters
- Flamed orange twist, for garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine the mezcal, tequila, Campari, agave, and El Guapo™ Fuego Bitters.
- Stir the mixture until it is well chilled.
- Strain the liquid into a lowball glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a flamed orange twist and serve immediately.
Flavor Profile: Bold and Complex
This smoky mezcal cocktail is a masterpiece of layered flavors. The mezcal provides a powerful and earthy smoky base, which is softened by the subtle sweetness of the agave and the bright, herbal notes of the tequila. The Campari adds a perfect touch of bitterness that creates balance, while the El Guapo™ Fuego Bitters introduce a spicy kick. The flamed orange twist releases aromatic oils that complement the smoky flavor, making this a truly complex and delicious drink.
Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between tequila and mezcal?
Tequila and mezcal are both spirits made from the agave plant. Tequila is specifically made from blue agave in the Jalisco region of Mexico. Mezcal can be made from over 30 different types of agave in various regions, and it gets its signature smoky flavor from the process of roasting the agave piñas in earthen pits.
What is a smoky mezcal cocktail?
A smoky mezcal cocktail is any mixed drink that uses mezcal as its primary spirit. The mezcal's distinct smoky flavor becomes the dominant characteristic of the drink, often balanced with other ingredients like citrus, sweeteners, or bitters to create a complex profile.
Can I make The Full Monte without Campari?
While Campari is a key component for the bitter balance, you could substitute it with another bitter liqueur like Aperol for a sweeter, less intense flavor.
What is a flamed orange twist?
A flamed orange twist is a garnish made by expressing the oils
