Cocktails with Dina
National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15 until October 15, as a time to celebrate the vibrant diversity and heritage of Latinx culture. And yes, that includes Latinx booze traditions. Everyone already knows about star spirits such as tequila and rum, but for me the real star of the month is mezcal.
No other spirit showcases as much species diversity and geographical influence. No other spirit is as varied and distinct. And as National Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close (and incidentally, National Mezcal Day arrives), it feels appropriate to say that mezcal can be seen as a metaphor that mirrors the culture, vibrancy, and resilience of the Latinx world.
Mezcal, a spirit of modern-day Mexico called the “elixir of the gods,” symbolizes the strength and transcendence of the Latinx identity, grounded in heritage but adaptable to modern contexts. Similarly, Latinx heritage is a story of resilience and transformation. Latinx communities have overcome challenges throughout history, and just like mezcal, have emerged more complex and layered.
One producer who stands out and showcases the diversity of terroir is Mezcal Derrumbes. Mezcal Derrumbes is born from the painstaking process of roasting, fermenting, and distilling site-specific agave and then using distinctive production techniques to feature the unique flavors and expressions of each state. Each bottle highlights and celebrates the master distillers, craftsmanship, and traditions from the region it represents.
This October, let us celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month and the Latinx community with the drink “La Ofrenda.” This drink, which translates as “The Offering,” takes its name from the altars or ofrendas many have in their homes in remembrance of their ancestors during the Day of the Dead, Día de los Muertos. While making this cocktail, let us reflect on the generational ties that shape Latinx culture, and the threads that connect it to San Francisco’s past, present, and future.
San Francisco-based Dina Novarr enjoys sharing her passion for fine wines, spirits, non-alcoholic craft beverages, and more with others.
Ofrenda Mezcal Cocktail
(Recipe developed by mixologist Naiady Porta Oliveira)
Ingredients
2 oz mezcal
1 oz fresh lime juice
3/4 oz agave syrup (adjust to taste)
1/2 oz orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Triple Sec)
1/4 oz pomegranate juice
2 dashes of Angostura bitters
Garnish: Pomegranate seeds and a lime wheel
Instructions
Cocktails with Dina
Published on October 3, 2024
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