Today, we're diving into the vibrant world of Mexican cocktails. Mexico, a land rich in culture and tradition, offers a wide array of drinks that reflect its spirited history. From the iconic Margarita to the refreshing Paloma, each sip is a celebration of Mexican heritage. So, grab your cocktail shaker and get ready to explore Mexico, one sip at a time!
➐ Charro Negro
The Charro Negro is more than just a cocktail; it's a drink steeped in Mexican folklore. This distinctive creation combines cultural history with a refreshing taste.
The name "Charro Negro" translates to "Dark Cowboy" and is linked to a legendary figure in Mexican culture - a mysterious cowboy who appears at dusk, offering gold coins or a ride to the underworld. Often associated with the Day of the Dead, this cocktail holds a deeper cultural significance beyond its ingredients.
To make this iconic drink, we use Grand Centenario, Mexico's number one tequila. Founded in 1857 by Lazaro Gallardo, the brand represents the first official tequila master distiller. The label, established in 1895, showcases the Angel of Independence Monument, a symbol engraved in Mexican centenario gold coins.
Ingredients:
- ¾ oz Sugarcane Kola Syrup
- 1 ½ oz Gran Centenario Plata
- ¼ oz lime juice
- 3 oz mineral water
Instructions:
- Pour ¾ oz of Sugarcane Kola Syrup into a highball glass filled with ice
- Add 1 ½ of Gran Centenario tequila and ¼ oz of lime juice
- Top with 3 oz of mineral water
- Garnish with a lime wedge
➏ Cantarito
The Cantarito traces its roots back to the Mexican Revolution in Jalisco, aimed at refreshing soldiers after victorious battles.
Named after the Spanish word "cántaro," meaning pitcher, it is traditionally served in clay cups that help keep the beverage cool. This drink is a testament to the resourcefulness and spirit of the Mexican people.
Using Espolòn Blanco tequila, known for its bright, floral notes, this cocktail pairs beautifully with citrus juices. Espolòn Blanco is a highland tequila, offering a fruity, lighter profile.
Ingredients:
- ¾ oz Rio Red Grapefruit Cordial
- 2 oz Espolòn Blanco tequila
- ¾ oz orange juice
- ½ oz lime juice
- 2-3 oz grapefruit soda (Squirt)
Instructions:
- Add 2 oz Espolòn Blanco tequila to a shaker tin
- Mix in ¾ oz of grapefruit cordial, ¾ oz of orange juice, and juice from half a lime
- Shake with ice, rim a glass with salt, and pour the contents in
- Top with grapefruit soda and garnish with an orange wedge
➎ Michelada
The Michelada is a beloved Mexican cocktail that combines beer with various spices and sauces to create a refreshing, spicy drink. Its name, likely derived from "mi chela helada" (my cold beer), speaks to its purpose: enhancing the taste of beer for a more flavorful, refreshing experience.
Some attribute its creation to Don Augusto Michel during the Mexican Revolution, who mixed beer with lime and hot sauce for a unique twist. Today, it's known for its red color and spiciness, often enjoyed as a hangover remedy or a creative beverage.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Blood Orange Cordial
- 4 oz lager beer
- 1 oz tomato juice
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 2 oz lime juice
- Tajin or other chili/lime/salt mix to taste
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice
- Stir 20 seconds and strain into a chilled pilsner glass with chili salted rim
- Garnish with lime wheel
➍ Vampiro
The Vampiro, a cocktail with a playful name and bright red hue, was created by Oscar Hernandez, a cucumber salesman from San Luis Soyatlán.
Initially made for personal enjoyment, the drink's popularity soared as customers took notice. Its name, meaning "vampire," likens sipping the drink to drawing blood, a nod to its vibrant color.
Using Cimarron Blanco tequila, known for its notes of sweet agave and earthy undertones, the Vampiro is a refreshing cocktail perfect for any occasion
Ingredients:
- ¾ oz Rio Red Grapefruit Cordial
- 2 oz Cimarron Blanco Tequila
- 4 oz sangrita mix
- 1 oz lime juice
- 3-4 of mineral water
Instructions
- Rim a highball glass with Tajín and add ice
- Add ¾ oz of Rio Red grapefruit cordial and 2 oz of Cimarron Blanco tequila
- Mix in 4 oz of Sangrita mix and 1 oz of lime juice
- Top with mineral water and enjoy
➌ Carajillo
The Carajillo, a cocktail that fuses coffee with Licor 43, has become a popular choice in Mexico City since the 2000s. Originally brought to Mexico by settlers, this drink is often enjoyed as a post-meal or pre-party beverage.
With its simple yet delightful preparation, the Carajillo is a must-try for coffee enthusiasts.
Instructions
- Combine Licor 43 with espresso in a cocktail shaker
- Shake for 10 to 15 seconds and double strain into a rocks glass filled with ice
- Garnish with coffee beans and enjoy
➋ Paloma
The Paloma cocktail, often attributed to Don Javier Delgado Corona, is a refreshing blend of tequila and grapefruit soda. Known for its citrus-infused taste, the Paloma is a favorite during hotter seasons and offers a straightforward recipe that invites creativity.
Using Don Julio Blanco tequila, a premium choice known for its sweet, earthy notes, this cocktail is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Rio Red Grapefruit Cordial
- 2 oz Don Julio Blanco tequila
- ¼ oz lime juice
- 4 oz club soda
Instructions
- Stir all in a highball filled with ice.
- Garnish with a grapefruit wedge.
➊ Margarita
The Margarita is the quintessential tequila-based cocktail, combining tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur. Its origins are debated, with one popular story crediting Carlos "Danny" Herrera with its creation in 1938. Regardless of its beginnings, the Margarita is a beloved classic worldwide.
Using Corralejo Blanco tequila, known for its semi-sweet, floral notes, this cocktail is a must-try for any tequila lover.
Ingredients:
- ¾ oz Classic Gum Syrup
- 2 oz tequila blanco
- 1 oz lime juice
- ½ orange liqueur
Instructions
- Add 2 oz of Corralejo Blanco tequila to a shaker tin
- Add 1 oz of lime juice, ¾ oz Classic Gum Syrup, and 1/2 oz of orange liqueur
- Shake with ice, salt the rim of a rocks glass, and fill with ice
- Strain the cocktail into the glass, garnish with a lime wedge
As we journey through the vibrant history of Mexican cocktails, we discover a world of flavors waiting to be explored. Whether you prefer the classic Margarita, the refreshing Paloma, or the unique Vampiro, there's a Mexican cocktail for everyone.
Remember, the world of cocktails is vast and diverse, so don't be afraid to experiment and find your perfect drink. Until our next cocktail adventure, Salud!
Want to see how these cocktails come together? Check out our video to watch the process in action!
