El Mayor Añejo Recipe

Prepare glass

Chill a rocks glass by placing it in the freezer for a few minutes or filling it with ice water while you prepare the cocktail.

Measure and combine

In a mixing glass or cocktail shaker without the lid, add 2 oz añejo tequila, 0.5 oz fresh lime juice, 0.25 oz fresh lemon juice, 0.5 oz agave syrup, 0.5 oz orange curaçao, and 2 dashes Angostura bitters.

Add ice and stir

Fill the mixing glass with large ice (enough to nearly fill). Stir gently but thoroughly for 20–30 seconds (about 20–30 full turns) until the mixture is well chilled and slightly diluted — this smooths the high-proof spirit and brings the flavors together.

Prepare serving glass

Discard the ice water from the chilled rocks glass (if used). Fill the chilled glass with fresh pebble ice or a large clear ice cube, depending on preference.

Strain and serve

Double-strain the mixed cocktail into the prepared rocks glass over the serving ice to catch any small shards from stirring. If you used a shaker with a built-in strainer, use a fine mesh for a cleaner pour.

Garnish and finish

Express an orange twist over the drink by holding it peel-side down and giving it a firm twist to release oils, then rub it around the rim and drop it into the glass. Optionally float a lime wheel on top. Serve immediately.

Tasting notes

The añejo tequila provides oak, caramel, and vanilla notes; citrus and curaçao add brightness and orange complexity; agave syrup softens and rounds the drink while bitters add depth. Adjust sweetener or citrus by 0.25 oz to taste.