Oaxacan Sunset

Oaxacan Sunset

The Oaxacan Sunset is a hibiscus margarita with a smoky mezcal backbone, and it looks like golden hour in a glass. SWOL Añejo and a splash of mezcal give it agave depth and a whisper of smoke, fresh lime keeps it bright, and a slow pour of ruby hibiscus syrup sinks to the bottom for a sunset gradient. It is shaken, then layered, so the color does the work with no fancy tools. Make the hibiscus syrup ahead or use grenadine in a pinch. Here is the full recipe, the layering trick, and how to build the syrup from dried hibiscus.

INGREDIENTS
  • 1.5 oz SWOL Añejo Tequila, the aged agave base that carries the drink
  • 0.5 oz mezcal, for a gentle smoke that defines the Oaxacan character
  • 0.75 oz hibiscus syrup, for tart-sweet flavor and the sunset color (grenadine works in a pinch)
  • 0.75 oz fresh lime juice, for brightness and balance
  • Ice, for shaking and for the glass
  • Dried hibiscus flower or lime wheel, as garnish
HOW TO PREPARE
  1. Shake the SWOL Añejo, mezcal and lime juice with ice until cold
  2. Strain over fresh ice in a rocks glass
  3. Slowly pour the hibiscus syrup down the back of a bar spoon so it settles at the bottom
  4. Garnish with a dried hibiscus flower or lime wheel and serve unstirred
Style of Glass to use
  • Rocks Glass
Garnishes
  • Lime

How to make hibiscus syrup (ingredient explainer)

  • Steep a cup of dried hibiscus flowers (jamaica) in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes, then strain
  • Stir the ruby tea with an equal amount of sugar until dissolved, then cool
  • It keeps refrigerated for about two weeks; grenadine is a quick substitute

The sunset layering trick (technique)

  • Denser syrup sinks below the lighter shaken drink, creating the gradient
  • Pour slowly down the back of a spoon just above the surface
  • Do not stir; let guests swirl it themselves

Tequila and mezcal ratio, and swaps (variations)

  • Smokier: shift to 1 oz añejo and 1 oz mezcal
  • Rim it: a Tajín or chili-salt rim adds heat and contrast
  • Non-alcoholic: build hibiscus syrup, lime and soda for an agua de jamaica spritz

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Oaxacan Sunset?

A hibiscus margarita made with SWOL Añejo, mezcal, hibiscus syrup and lime, layered for a sunset gradient.

How do I get the sunset effect?

Pour the hibiscus syrup slowly down the back of a spoon so it settles below the shaken drink.

Can I use grenadine instead of hibiscus syrup?

Yes, grenadine gives similar color and sweetness, though hibiscus is more tart and floral.

Why add mezcal to a margarita?

A small amount of mezcal adds smoke and Oaxacan character without overpowering the tequila.

Is it shaken or stirred?

Shaken with the spirits and lime, then the syrup is layered in unstirred.

How do I make hibiscus syrup?

Steep dried hibiscus flowers in hot water, strain, and stir in an equal part of sugar.

Can I make it non-alcoholic?

Yes, combine hibiscus syrup, lime and soda water for a jamaica spritz.

Oaxacan Sunset TIPS

Pour Slow for the Perfect Sunset

To create that layered “sunset” effect, pour the hibiscus syrup slowly down the back of a spoon so it gently settles at the bottom without mixing. It not only looks beautiful but creates a flavor journey — tart, floral, smoky, and citrusy in every sip. Bonus: rim your glass with hibiscus salt or Tajín for a spicy-sour edge that pops against the sweetness.

MADE WITH

SWOL Anejo Tequila Limited Release (750Ml)

750 ML

$89.99

$109.99

Sale

SWOL Anejo Tequila Limited Release is an extremely limited edition; a special release of just 10,000 bottles. Each hand-numbered bottle has a peel-off iron patch which is designed by Los Angeles-based artist Rise Work.

Combining ancient and modern techniques and a deep love and passion for Authentic Tequila, SWOL Tequila comes from Mexico. When two friends journeyed to Mexico...

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