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The Mexican alcoholic drink of tequila, made by fermenting the blue agave plant juice, is a phenomenal type of alcohol to use in cocktail making. Available in three broad types – namely Blanco (unaged), Reposado (briefly aged), and Anejo (longer aged), each one has its own unique flavour profile and complexity. Admired around the world for its distinctively earthy and at times, smoky flavour notes, tequila is often consumed neat or mixed into a cocktail. While the classic margarita infused with lime is one of the most legendary by-products of how to use tequila, having a bottle that can be put to use in creative ways can elevate your cocktail experience by manifold.
Tomato Juice
No matter how well you take care of yourself, there are going to be days when you need a little pick-me-up. It's a good idea to mix tequila with tomato juice whenever you need a drink to unwind, or want to throw a birthday brunch. Try substituting tequila for the vodka in your Bloody Mary recipe for a ‘Bloody Maria.’ The heat from the hot sauce is amplified by the addition of tequila, or simply make a quick Bloody Maria by mixing store-bought bloody Mary mix with tequila.
Grapefruit Juice
Quality tequila can offer subtle earthiness or a hint of sweetness, while good grapefruit juice packs a pleasing tartness. Combining these two creates a delightful pairing, especially if you prefer drinks on the less sweet side. Notably rich in vitamin C, grapefruit juice not only complements tequila for a weekend sip but also provides a refreshing zesty flavour to your cocktail. The Paloma – Mexico’s national drink, takes use of this mashup by combining tequila, grapefruit soda or juice, seltzer and a squeeze of lime for a light and mildly spicy summer treat that is traditionally served with a rim of chilli salt.
Coconut Water
If you enjoy a touch of the tropics, you’re probably familiar with coconut water in cocktails. Its nutty sweetness elevated by a splash of tequila is great when having a coconut water margarita without standing the risk of a hangover. If you want to drink tequila with coconut water, make sure it is freshly extracted and doesn't have any added sugars or preservatives.
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Pineapple Juice
Tequila and pineapple juice make a delightful pairing, with the pineapple's inherent sweetness balancing the earthy notes of tequila. A dash of lime enhances the flavors. Pineapple juice is rich in vitamins A, C, and B, along with vital minerals like manganese and copper. It's also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to bromelain, an enzyme that aids in reducing swelling and alleviating pain.
Ginger Ale/Ginger Beer
Spicy ginger beer and ginger ale complement tequila wonderfully. Beyond their delicious carbonation, these beverages offer a depth of flavour and warm heat. Ginger beer is spicier and bolder due to its brewed and fermented nature, featuring ginger, sugar, yeast and water. Ginger ale tends to be sweeter, while ginger beer has a drier profile. Whether you crave a robust ginger flavour or a milder one, both pair excellently with tequila.
Apple Juice
Whether your preference leans towards apple juice or apple cider, both make delightful companions for tequila. The distinction lies in the production process as apple cider is typically bottled without filtration or pasteurization, resulting in a shorter shelf life, less sugar content, and a slightly cloudy appearance. In contrast, apple juice tends to be sweeter with added sugar, pasteurization and filtration for the familiar clear texture. While apple juice often pairs well with bourbon, substituting it with quality aged reposado tequila introduces warm spice and roasted agave notes. Mix one part tequila with two parts apple juice, add ice and a lime squeeze, or create an autumnal hot toddy by warming fresh apple cider with tequila, garnished with an orange slice and a cinnamon stick.
