The idea for the Mezquito was my girlfriend's. We were sitting at the bar of an upscale Mexican restaurant and she commented on how great she thought a Mojito would be with mezcal. Really, I just came up with the name. If you don't have a lot of experience with mezcal, this is a great cocktail to get acquainted with it, the mezcal is much more present in the drink than silver rum is in the traditional Mojito but the other flavors in the drink soften some of the smokiness.

Mezquito (Evian Andrews, 2015)

Mezcal 2 oz
Fresh Lime Juice ¾ oz
1:1 Agave Simple Syrup ½ oz
Mint 12 leaves
Soda Water top off

Muddle mint, with agave syrup, in Collins glass. Add fresh lime juice, ice cubes, and a small amount of crushed ice. Stir to incorporate lime and to distribute mint evenly around the glass. Top with soda water. Garnish with a large sprig of mint.