That’s right, it’s Tequila Day around the world, and if you were looking for an excuse to enjoy a little agave love, there’s never been a better rationale to try one of these classic tequila cocktails.
It’s the spirit that you either love or get the dry heaves from the very mention of. However, tequila is probably one of your bartender’s favourite tipples – mixologists love the spirit for its complexity, its flexibility, and in part, its fearsome reputation – and these classic tequila cocktails not only beat the heat but capture the spirit to perfection. Happy Tequila Day!
Margarita
Probably the most iconic of the tequila cocktails, the margarita has it all, booze, salt, citrus and ice. Not only is it elegant as hell, but it also lends itself to variations that run the gamut from cranberry margaritas to mangoritas, served up, on the rocks or frozen. Simply combine tequila, triple sec, lime juice and ice in a shaker or blender and rim the glass with salt. Try using aged tequila to get a more complex and mellow flavour profile or even be so bold as to replace tequila with mezcal – we won’t tell.
Paloma
A cocktail that’s enjoyed a real renaissance, this classy and refreshing concoction balances tequila with pink grapefruit and lime juice to give a zesty kick. Traditionally made with a grapefruit-flavoured soda, the best palomas are made with the real juice – red or white – and a dash of soda water. Don’t forget to rim the glass with salt.
Tequila Sunrise
A great drink for easing your way into tequila, this cruise ship staple is said to have been created at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel in the 1930s, where bartender Gene Sulit blended tequila, crème de cassis, lime juice and soda water. The more contemporary mix of tequila, orange juice and grenadine was pioneered by Bobby Lozoff and Billy Rice in the 1970s and became an instant hit.
Chilano Special
Sweet, zesty and heady all at once, the Chilano Special is a classic tequila cocktail that’s ideal for a long summer night. Combine a healthy dash of white tequila (approx. 3oz) with a touch of crème de cassis, lemon and lime juice, and half a teaspoon of simple syrup and you have a drink that not only tastes great but also looks the part.
Bloody Maria
As well suited to getting you through the night as it is for the morning after, this Mexican take on the Bloody Mary can be a lifesaver. Combine good quality tomato juice with tequila, a hint of Tabasco sauce, a sprinkling of celery salt and a dash of lemon juice, over plenty of cold, dry ice. Garnish with a celery stalk and a lemon wedge – the perfect breakfast pre-cursor if you find yourself entertaining the next morning.
El Diablo
Named for a deity we’re sure loves his tequila, the El Diablo is far more refreshing than anything they probably serve in hell. Shake tequila, crème de cassis and lime juice over ice and serve in a high ball before topping with ginger ale. The ginger ale adds a drier, more refined element to the drink, making it a summer essential.
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