Whether you fancy 100 percent agave añejos or are just fine with Jose Cuervo, there are more ways to enjoy your tequila than the traditional day-glo margarita. While there’s a time and a place for this salt-rimmed cocktail – ubiquitous in every Mexican restaurant and cantina — here are eight new ways to enjoy the wonderful nuances of this underrated liquor while quenching your thirst.
Tequila Neat
A no frills option for a well-aged tequila that can be slowly sipped and savored pre-dinner – much like you would a fine scotch or brandy. Best sipped at room temperature. Look for these premium añejos: Pueblo Viejo Orgullo Añejo Tequila, Tributo, Tequila Añejo and Partida Añejo.
Paloma
This refreshing tequila cocktail is citrusy and full of bright flavors. To make, simply mix:
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup quality tequila
- 1/4 cup club soda
- 1 tsp. sugar
Gingerita
This heavenly concoction soothes the soul on a hot day. Mix up equal parts of fresh lime juice and silver tequila and add a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger. Stir in a teaspoon of agave syrup or cane sugar.
Cinnamon Tamarind Margarita
Slightly earthy and slightly spicy, this margarita recipe tastes best with a quality reposado or 100 agave tequila. In a mixing glass, add
- 2 ounces agave tequila
- 1 1/4 ounce fresh lime juice
- 1/2 ounce lemon juice
- 1/4 ounce Cointreau or orange liquor
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- 3/4 ounce tamarind juice or concentrate
Fill with ice, shake and strain into a glass. Run wedge of lime over the rim of the glass and dip in a mixture of cayenne pepper, salt and cinnamon.
Tequila-pineapple lemonade
This new twist on an old favorite promises a tangy yet sweet sensation, and it’s a snap to make. In a large pitcher, whisk together a half cup of simple syrup, 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 cup of pineapple juice and 1 cup of your favorite tequila.
Spicy chili margarita
Take the poolside margarita to a whole new level with this piquant recipe. In a shaker, add ½ part simple syrup, ½ part fresh lime juice, ¾ part orange liquor, 2 parts aged tequila and 3 slices of muddled red peppers. Shake well and pour over ice. Add a sprig of cilantro for added flavor!
Tequila Sunrise Mimosa
This brunch-friendly cocktail will dazzle your friends, and may become your go-to drink of choice. Only five ingredients are needed: 1 part tequila, 1 part dry champagne, 2 parts orange juice (blood oranges are even better!) and a splash of grenadine. Garnish with a lemon or orange wedge.
Strawberry & Orange Tequila Fizz
This refreshing drink will transport your senses to the tropical beaches of Mexico and makes for a perfect Cinco de Mayo cocktail! Muddle four fresh strawberries and a half teaspoon of sugar together in a glass jar. Stir in the juice of a half a lemon, half a lime and one orange. Mix in half teaspoon of agave syrup and then strain the mixture over a tall glass filled with ice. Add 1 ½ ounces of good tequila and splash of sparkling water.
Additional Tequila Cocktail Resources:
- Spoon University, 13 Grown Up Ways to Drink Tequila https://spoonuniversity.com/lifestyle/fourteen-grown-up-ways-to-drink-tequila
- BuzzFeed, 24 Glorious Ways To Drink More Tequila https://www.buzzfeed.com/melissaharrison/feisty-tequila-cocktails?utm_term=.dwDe6G4oV#.rjpvJQ3nD]
- Liquor.com, TEQUILA DRINKS GUIDE http://www.liquor.com/mosaic/tequila-cocktail-recipes/#gs.W6EWh_Q
