Charred Sage & Smokey Mezcal Margarita

A smokey mezcal margarita made with a simple syrup infused with charred sage and a zesty lime and sage salt rim. Need anyone say more??!!

I love a margarita and I see no reason why chilly weather means that these get put on hold until I’m wearing a t-shirt again. Luckily, this versatile cocktail gets even better with the addition of an unexpected herb from the fall garden. Enter sage…!

This charred sage and smoky mezcal margarita is the perfect cocktail for cozy fall evenings when you still also want to pretend that you’re on the beach in Mexico. It combines the earthy warmth of charred sage, the bright tang of fresh lime, and the smooth, smoky depth of mezcal. A sage-infused simple syrup adds a subtle herbal sweetness, while a herbed citrus salt rim takes it to the next level.

After one cocktail, I’m ready to put on my puffy coat and head back outside to do some work in the garden before it gets too dark.

Ingredients

• Fresh sage leaves

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup water

• 2 tbsp Maldon salt

• 1 tsp lime zest

• 3 oz mezcal

• 2 oz Cointreau (or other orange liqueur)

• 1 oz lime juice (freshly squeezed)

• Lime wedge
  

Instructions

1. Char the Sage Leaves: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Place sage leaves directly on the skillet. Press gently with tongs or the back of a spoon. Cook for 15–30 seconds per side until lightly charred and crisp. Avoid burning. Transfer to a plate lined with a paper towel to cool.

2. Make the Infused Simple Syrup: Combine 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water in a small saucepan. Add charred sage leaves and bring to a simmer. Steep for 10 minutes, then strain out the leaves.

3. Optional: Herbed Citrus Salt for the Rim: Crumble a charred sage leaf into a powder. Mix 2 tbsp Maldon salt, 1 tsp lime zest, and 1/2 tsp sage powder. Spread on a plate, run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, and dip into the salt.

4. Make the Cocktail: Fill a shaker with ice, 2 oz mezcal, 1 oz lime juice, 1 oz Cointreau, and 1/2 oz infused syrup. Shake well. Rim your glass with Herbed Citrus Salt, then pour in the cocktail (with or without ice). Garnish with a charred sage leaf. Cheers! 🌿🍹