These Tequila Cocktails bring a fun and festive energy to this traditional agave-based liquor. Whether they’re fruity, spicy or somewhere in between, they all offer their own unique flavor profile to help highlight the vibrant base notes of this versatile spirit.
What Mixes Well With Tequila?
Since it originally hails from Mexico, a lot of popular Latin American flavors pair really well with tequila. You’ll see lime and chili peppers as common add-ins and garnishes. Many fruits also complement tequila, especially tropical fruits with stronger flavors that can hold their own against the boldness of the spirit.
Types of Tequila and When to Use Which
There are five different types of tequila that get their names based on how long they age. The one you choose for your drinks and recipes mostly depends on personal preference. Younger tequilas will have a stronger agave flavor, which gives them an earthy and slightly sweet taste. Tequilas that have spent more time aging take on an oaky, caramelized flavor.
The slightly fruity undertones of blanco tequilas make them great for fruity mixed drinks, while the caramelized notes in the more aged varieties help them pair well with deeper and richer flavors. But don’t be afraid to experiment with your recipes to see what works best for you!
What Is the Most Popular Brand of Tequila?
Jose Cuervo holds the title of best-selling tequila brand, but look out! Not all of Jose Cuervo’s labels use 100% blue agave, which can cause this famously low-calorie spirit to lose some of its health benefits. Jose also has some stiff competition from brands like Patrón and Don Julio.
Storage Tips
Many people keep their spirits in the fridge or the freezer, but that’s not actually the best place for tequila. This liquor does best when it’s kept in a cool, dry place in a well-sealed container. This will slow down evaporation and keep the flavor locked in.
20 Must-Make Tequila Cocktails
Tequila can be used in so many different ways. The margarita is just the tip of the iceberg, and this list will help you dive into all the possibilities underneath.
The bubbles from the seltzer and a garnish of fresh lime slices make this drink so light and refreshing. It's a great drink to hold you over on hot days.
This drink brings the perfect mix of sweetness and spice, plus a swift kick of tequila to help kick off happy hour. It might look delicate and light, but it's boozy enough to pack a punch.
The cool hint of fresh mint and a burst of real citrus flavor make this drink the perfect thing to cool you off on a hot day. Enjoy it out on the porch or in a chair by the pool.
This sweet little shot is stronger than it looks. Inspired by the piña colada, this shot has a fruity tropical flavor that makes it taste like you're on vacation no matter where you are.
For a spicy twist on the pickleback shot, jalapeño brine makes such a great chaser for this classic Mexican spirit. It really packs a wallop, making it the perfect drink for people who follow the motto "go big or go home."
With a gorgeous deep red hue and a beautiful sprig of fresh rosemary for garnish, this cocktail is as nice to look at as it is to drink! Whip these up when you want an easy way to feel sophisticated.
Red white and blue aren't just for the Fourth of July! Although tequila comes from Mexico, you can still celebrate your patriotic spirit any time of year with this cool and fruity cocktail.
Just like its name suggests, the bold fruity flavors help this vitamin-rich mixed drink pack a pretty powerful punch. It's so nice to throw together when you want a fun way to give yourself an energy boost.
With a dash of Kahlua and a garnish of real toasted walnuts, everyone will surely go nuts for this rich and creamy mixed drink. Plus, the Bailey's adds a whole new layer of flavor.
Add a little adult fun to your brunch plans with this bright hued and boldly flavored orange juice with a kick. But really, it tastes just as great any time of day.
Nothing screams summer like fresh watermelon. These shots are perfect for your next pool party or trip to the beach.
The ultimate pick-me-up, this energizing mixed drink brings together two beverages that are sure to get everybody on their feet. Enjoy it any time you need a second wind.
These delightfully tart tequila shots go down quick and smooth, sending a buzz to your taste buds as well as your head! This one makes a great option when you want something quick but tasty.
This sweet and tart cocktail brings classic fall flavor together with a warm shot of tequila. It makes the perfect treat to keep the grown-ups feeling toasty.
Warm cinnamon tequila gives this drink the caramelized flavor of a grilled pineapple. It makes the ideal between-seasons drink for the first cooler days as summer fades into fall.
Perfectly balancing the sweet and the spicy, this cocktail offers a boozy kick to bring you the best of both worlds. Lean to the spicy side with a fresh slice of jalapeño for garnish, or to the sweet side with a fresh peach wedge.
This creamy cocktail is perfect for people who want some extra vitamins and minerals but aren't big fans of fruity drinks. The savory flavor of the avocado is the perfect thing to cool down the kick of the liquor.
A little chili powder around the rim makes the spicy kick of this margarita completely customizable! Go with a little extra to ramp up the heat, or a little less to make things milder.
This sweet and sour mixed drink busts with fresh fruit flavor. Plus, it packs in some vitamins and minerals to help you serve up a healthy dose of fun.
This spiked lemonade brings you fresh and nostalgic summer flavor, with an adult sophistication coming through in the smoky hints and boozy kick. If only they had 21+ lemonade stands!
