I’ve experimented with flavors and this cocktail excites me like no other. Mezcal paired with fresh lime juice and a dash of orange bitters sets the foundation, while Lapsang Souchong tea syrup and agave nectar add perfect balance. I consider it one of the best Delicious Cocktail Recipes I’ve crafted.

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Have you ever wondered what a cocktail that truly challenges expectations tastes like? I’ve been experimenting in my kitchen with a drink I call Smoke on the Water, and it’s quickly become one of my favorites.

This recipe brings together a smoky mezcal base and a generous squeeze of fresh lime juice, adding that perfect tang. I mix in a dash of Lapsang Souchong tea syrup for an extra layer of smokiness that really surprises you with every sip.

A touch of agave nectar gives the drink just enough sweetness and one dash of orange bitters brightens up the flavors. I also like to rim the glass with smoked salt for that final gourmet twist.

This unique cocktail is fun to make and even more fun to share, blending ingredients that make it feel both special and a little adventurous. Give it a try if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary!

Why I Like this Recipe

I love this recipe so much because it gives me that deep, smoky flavor that feels both edgy and comforting. The mezcal and Lapsang Souchong tea syrup blend really makes it special, like it’s got this secret kick that sets it apart from your regular drinks. I also really enjoy using fresh lime juice ’cause it cuts through the smokiness and adds a nice, tangy brightness to the whole mix. Plus, rimming the glass with smoked salt is a fun little ritual that makes the drink even cooler, like I’m treating myself to something extra special every time I make it. And I gotta say, mixing in the agave nectar and orange bitters just rounds it all out perfectly so that every sip is balanced and super tasty.

Ingredients

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Mezcal: Smoky spirit with depth, mostly alcohol offering a bold, adventurous flavor.
Fresh lime juice: Citrusy, sour burst with vitamin C and a zesty tang.
Lapsang Souchong tea syrup: Infuses extra smoky sweetness and deep, aromatic flavor from tea leaves.
Agave nectar: Natural sweetener delivering smooth, mild sweetness and a touch of energy.
Orange bitters: Adds bright, citrus notes to balance the smokiness with a hint of spice.
Smoked salt: Provides a savory rim, intensifying the drink’s rich, smoky profile.
Lime twist: Elegant garnish adding color and a touch of citrus aroma.

Ingredient Quantities

2 oz mezcal (gives it that smoky kick)

1 oz fresh lime juice (squeeze it real good)

3/4 oz Lapsang Souchong tea syrup (adds extra smoky flavor)

1/2 oz agave nectar (for a little sweetness)

1 dash orange bitters (brightens it up)

Smoked salt (for rimming the glass, if you’re into that)

Lime twist (for garnish)

How to Make this

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1. First, rim your glass with smoked salt by rubbing a lime wedge around the edge then dipping it into the salt.

2. Next, in a cocktail shaker add 2 oz of mezcal, 1 oz fresh lime juice, 3/4 oz Lapsang Souchong tea syrup, 1/2 oz agave nectar, and 1 dash of orange bitters.

3. Fill the shaker with ice.

4. Shake everything thoroughly for about 15 seconds so it’s well chilled.

5. Strain the mix into the prepped glass; you can add fresh ice if you like it extra cool.

6. Finish by garnishing with a lime twist.

7. Enjoy your Smoke on the Water cocktail!

Equipment Needed

1. A cocktail glass (your serving glass for the finished drink)
2. A small plate or dish to hold the smoked salt for rimming the glass
3. A knife and a cutting board (for cutting the lime wedge and twist)
4. A citrus juicer (or you can squeeze manually if you prefer)
5. A cocktail shaker (for mixing and chilling the ingredients)
6. A jigger or measuring cup (to measure the mezcal, lime juice, tea syrup, and agave nectar)
7. A fine mesh strainer (to strain the mix into your glass)
8. An ice bucket or bowl (to keep ice handy for shaking and serving)

FAQ

What gives this cocktail its signature flavor?

The mezcal brings that smokey kick, while the Lapsang Souchong tea syrup adds even more smoky flavor. It’s a combo that really makes the drink pop.

Can I use something else if I can't find Lapsang Souchong tea syrup?

You can try making your own syrup by brewing the tea strong and mixing in some sugar. Its not exactly the same, but it'll still give you a nice smokey-ish vibe.

Do I have to use fresh lime juice?

Fresh lime juice really makes a difference. If you use bottled lime juice, it might not give you that bright, tangy kick we need for the drink.

How do I adjust the sweetness?

If you like your drink a bit sweeter or less sweet, just change the amount of agave nectar. It’s all about finding that perfect balance for your taste.

Is rimming the glass with smoked salt necessary?

It isn’t required, but if you like a little extra kick and a professional touch, go ahead and rim your glass with smoked salt.

Smoke On The Water Recipe Substitutions and Variations

If you cant find mezcal, try using a smoky tequila or a chipotle-infused tequila for that kick.
Fresh lime juice can be swapped with lemon juice, just keep in mind it might be a little tart-er than lime.
Lapsang Souchong tea syrup can be made by steeping Lapsang Souchong tea in a simple syrup if your local store doesn’t carry it.
If you dont have agave nectar, use a bit of honey or maple syrup thinned with water to match the consistency.
For orange bitters, a couple of dashes of Angostura bitters with a tiny bit of orange zest works pretty well.

Pro Tips

1. When you making your tea syrup, let it brew a bit longer than you normally would if you want a more robust flavor but be careful not to let it get too bitter
2. Always use fresh lime juice; bottled stuff just doesn’t cut it – squeezing by hand really makes a big differance in the final taste
3. When rimming the glass with smoked salt, try dipping it a couple of times to get that extra kick of flavor on the edge
4. Don’t be scared to adjust the ice and shake time; a longer, more vigorous shake can help meld all the flavors together better, even if it means a bit too much chill sometimes

Smoke On The Water Recipe

Recipe by Sam Ecclestone

0.0 from 0 votes

I've experimented with flavors and this cocktail excites me like no other. Mezcal paired with fresh lime juice and a dash of orange bitters sets the foundation, while Lapsang Souchong tea syrup and agave nectar add perfect balance. I consider it one of the best Delicious Cocktail Recipes I've crafted.

Servings

servings

Calories

230

kcal

Equipment: 1. A cocktail glass (your serving glass for the finished drink)
2. A small plate or dish to hold the smoked salt for rimming the glass
3. A knife and a cutting board (for cutting the lime wedge and twist)
4. A citrus juicer (or you can squeeze manually if you prefer)
5. A cocktail shaker (for mixing and chilling the ingredients)
6. A jigger or measuring cup (to measure the mezcal, lime juice, tea syrup, and agave nectar)
7. A fine mesh strainer (to strain the mix into your glass)
8. An ice bucket or bowl (to keep ice handy for shaking and serving)

Ingredients

2 oz mezcal (gives it that smoky kick)
1 oz fresh lime juice (squeeze it real good)
3/4 oz Lapsang Souchong tea syrup (adds extra smoky flavor)
1/2 oz agave nectar (for a little sweetness)
1 dash orange bitters (brightens it up)
Smoked salt (for rimming the glass, if you're into that)
Lime twist (for garnish)

Directions

First, rim your glass with smoked salt by rubbing a lime wedge around the edge then dipping it into the salt.
Next, in a cocktail shaker add 2 oz of mezcal, 1 oz fresh lime juice, 3/4 oz Lapsang Souchong tea syrup, 1/2 oz agave nectar, and 1 dash of orange bitters.
Fill the shaker with ice.
Shake everything thoroughly for about 15 seconds so it's well chilled.
Strain the mix into the prepped glass; you can add fresh ice if you like it extra cool.
Finish by garnishing with a lime twist.
Enjoy your Smoke on the Water cocktail!

Notes

Below you’ll find my best estimate of this recipe’s nutrition facts. Treat the numbers as a guide rather than a rule—great food should nourish both body and spirit. Figures are approximate, and the website owner assumes no liability for any inaccuracies in this recipe.