Smoky Gland
A modern and assertive variation of the classic Monkey Gland cocktail, where mezcal substitutes gin to create a complex, smoky, and earthy experience that bridges pre-Prohibition sensibilities with contemporary agave appreciation.
29%
ABV
medium
Difficulty
coupe
Glass
Flavor Profile
History & Heritage
“The Smoky Gland is a contemporary reinterpretation of Harry MacElhone's 1920s Monkey Gland cocktail, created during the craft cocktail renaissance of the 21st century. By substituting smoky mezcal for gin, this modern variation transforms the bright, citrusy original into a complex, earthy experience that showcases mezcal's distinctive character while honoring the classic's balanced template.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a coupe or Nick & Nora glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes
Juice fresh oranges and strain to remove pulp
Combine mezcal, fresh orange juice, and grenadine in a cocktail shaker
Fill shaker three-quarters full with large, dense ice cubes
Shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds until shaker is well-frosted
Add absinthe to chilled glass and swirl to coat interior surface
Discard any excess absinthe
Double strain the cocktail into the absinthe-rinsed glass using both Hawthorne and fine-mesh strainers
Express oils from fresh orange peel over the drink's surface
Garnish with the expressed orange peel
Glassware
Served up in a chilled coupe glass
Garnish
Express oils over drink surface
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use Espadín mezcal for balanced smokiness without overwhelming other flavors
Fresh orange juice is non-negotiable for superior brightness and aroma
The absinthe rinse should be subtle—discard excess for aromatic complexity, not dominance
Double strain for silky-smooth texture free of ice shards and pulp
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Smoky Gland.
1:1 Ratio
Equal parts mezcal and orange juice for a more fruit-forward, approachable drink.
Changes
Tobalá Expression
Uses wild Tobalá mezcal for more floral and complex character.
Changes
Smoky Scotch Version
Peated Islay Scotch creates a different smoky profile with brine and medicinal notes.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Monkey Gland
Harry MacElhone's cheeky 1920s concoction—dry gin and fresh orange lit up with grenadine and a whisper of absinthe.
Tequila Sunrise
Blanco tequila with fresh orange juice and a grenadine sink for the iconic sunrise gradient—simple, bright, and refreshing.
Ward 8
Boston's most significant contribution to classic cocktail canon - a robust whiskey sour elevated by orange juice and the sweet, ruby kiss of grenadine. Born from 19th-century political machinations, it's both refreshingly tart and subtly complex.