El Derby Ahumado (Basil Julep With Cucumber, Jalapeño, and Mezcal)
This cocktail is admittedly quite far from classic julep territory, but it’s as drinkable as it is atypical. The name means “the smoked derby” in Spanish, a nod to the mezcal that lends the drink its campfire aroma. Mixed with it are muddled cucumber (for thirst-quenching freshness); jalapeño (for green, vegetal spice); basil (for an herbal note); and agave syrup—which is made from the same Mexican succulent that mezcal is, though sugar would work just fine in its place. Get Recipe!


Serious Eats: Recipes