When the weather turns cold, reach for this cocktail to warm you back up. For those of you who don’t know, Mezcal, like tequila, is made of agave and can be found in the tequila section of the LCBO. Though I’ve never really cared for the taste of tequila, I do enjoy imbibing a well composed mezcal cocktail on occasion.

This cocktail is unlike any other, it has a clean, refreshing taste that doesn't linger, followed by a sensation of heat that swells and dissipates like an ocean wave cashing upon the beach on a hot day. It's a perfect way to stay warm as we head into a few chilly months.

Jalapeno Mezcal Cocktail

2 oz mezcal

1 oz simple syrup

1 oz fresh lime juice

½ a jalapeño

Cut half a jalapeño into rounds and muddle in the bottom of a cocktail shaker, add the syrup, mezcal, lime, and a handful of ice cubes. Shake your little heart out, and strain into a chilled glass full of fresh ice. Top with a thin slice of jalapeno and a rasp of lime zest.