The 10 Best Tequila, Mezcal, and Sotol-Based Cocktails

Introduction

Welcome to Dirty D! I'm Manny Vides Jr., founder and co-owner and I've been mixing drinks for long than I'd like to admit (I've also tasted a few - yes "just a few").

Today, I’m excited to share with you some of my go-to easy and best cocktails made with tequila, mezcal, and sotol.

Discover cocktails that highlight the unique flavors of these Mexican spirits and are perfect for any occasion, but most importantly are easy to make with ingredients you can buy anywhere, so don't expect to see any of our crazy Dirty Cocktail recipes in here!

Let’s dive in and explore these delicious recipes!

Tequila-Based Cocktails

Margarita

The classic Margarita is a timeless favorite. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz tequila
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1 oz triple sec
• Salt for rimming the glass
• Ice
• Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rim a glass with lime juice and dip in salt.
2. Fill a shaker with ice and add tequila, lime juice, and triple sec.
3. Shake well and strain into the prepared glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve.

Tequila Sunrise

The Tequila Sunrise is a visually stunning and refreshing drink. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz tequila
• 4 oz orange juice
• 1/2 oz grenadine
• Ice
• Orange slice and cherry for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice and add tequila and orange juice.
2. Slowly pour grenadine over the back of a spoon to create a sunrise effect.
3. Garnish with an orange slice and cherry and serve.

Paloma

The Paloma is a light and refreshing cocktail perfect for warm days. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz tequila
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• 2 oz grapefruit soda
• Salt for rimming the glass
• Ice
• Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rim a glass with lime juice and dip in salt.
2. Fill the glass with ice and add tequila and lime juice.
3. Top with grapefruit soda and stir gently.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve.

Mezcal-Based Cocktails

Mezcal Margarita

A smoky twist on the classic Margarita. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz mezcal
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1 oz triple sec
• Salt for rimming the glass
• Ice
• Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rim a glass with lime juice and dip in salt.
2. Fill a shaker with ice and add mezcal, lime juice, and triple sec.
3. Shake well and strain into the prepared glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve.

Smoky Paloma

This cocktail combines the refreshing taste of a Paloma with the smoky flavor of mezcal. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz mezcal
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• 2 oz grapefruit soda
• Salt for rimming the glass
• Ice
• Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rim a glass with lime juice and dip in salt.
2. Fill the glass with ice and add mezcal and lime juice.
3. Top with grapefruit soda and stir gently.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve.

Mezcal Negroni

A bold and smoky version of the classic Negroni. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 oz mezcal
• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• Ice
• Orange twist for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice and add mezcal, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
2. Stir until well chilled and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
3. Garnish with an orange twist and serve.

Sotol-Based Cocktails

Sotol Sour

A unique take on the classic Whiskey Sour, using sotol. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz sotol
• 3/4 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Ice
• Lemon twist for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a shaker with ice and add sotol, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Shake well and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
3. Garnish with a lemon twist and serve.

Sotol Old Fashioned

A southwestern twist on the classic Old Fashioned. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz sotol
• 1 sugar cube
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
• Ice
• Orange twist for garnish

Instructions:

1. Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass and add bitters.
2. Muddle until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Add ice and sotol and stir well.
4. Garnish with an orange twist and serve.

Sotol Mule

A refreshing take on the classic Moscow Mule, using sotol. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz sotol
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• 4 oz ginger beer
• Ice
• Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a copper mug or glass with ice and add sotol and lime juice.
2. Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
3. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve.

Bonus Cocktail Recipes

Tequila Espresso Martini

A caffeinated twist on the classic Espresso Martini using tequila. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 oz tequila
• 1 oz coffee liqueur
• 1 oz freshly brewed espresso
• Ice
• Coffee beans for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a shaker with ice and add tequila, coffee liqueur, and espresso.
2. Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass.
3. Garnish with coffee beans and serve.

Mezcal Mule

A smoky version of the Moscow Mule, using mezcal. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz mezcal
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• 4 oz ginger beer
• Ice
• Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a copper mug or glass with ice and add mezcal and lime juice.
2. Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
3. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve.

FAQ About Mixing Cocktails

What are the basic tools needed for mixing cocktails?

To mix cocktails at home, you'll need a few basic tools: a cocktail shaker, a jigger (for measuring), a strainer, a muddler, a bar spoon, and a mixing glass. These tools will help you measure, mix, and serve your drinks properly.

What is the difference between shaking and stirring a cocktail?

Shaking a cocktail is done with a cocktail shaker and is typically used for drinks containing fruit juices, dairy, or egg whites. It helps to mix the ingredients thoroughly and chill the drink quickly. Stirring a cocktail is done with a bar spoon in a mixing glass and is usually reserved for spirit-forward drinks like martinis and old fashioneds. Stirring gently blends the ingredients without diluting the drink too much.

How do I properly measure ingredients for cocktails?

Using a jigger is the most accurate way to measure ingredients for cocktails. A jigger is a small, hourglass-shaped tool with different measurements on each side. Pour the ingredient into the jigger up to the desired measurement line and then add it to your cocktail.

What are some tips for making a balanced cocktail?

To make a balanced cocktail, consider the following tips:

• Follow the recipe closely, especially when you're starting out.
• Use fresh ingredients, such as freshly squeezed juices and high-quality spirits.
• Pay attention to the balance of sweet, sour, and bitter flavors.
• Taste your cocktail as you go and adjust as needed.
• Chill your glassware before serving to keep your cocktails cold longer.

How do I garnish a cocktail properly?

Garnishing a cocktail adds a visual appeal and can enhance the flavor. Use fresh, vibrant ingredients for garnishes. Common garnishes include citrus twists, fruit slices, herbs, and edible flowers. Always garnish just before serving to ensure the freshest presentation.

Can I make cocktails in advance for a party?

Yes, you can make certain cocktails in advance, especially those that don't contain perishable ingredients like fresh juice or dairy. Batch cocktails like sangria, punch, and certain spirit-forward drinks can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Add any carbonated mixers or garnishes just before serving.

What are some easy-to-make cocktails for beginners?

For beginners, start with simple cocktails that require few ingredients and basic techniques. Some easy-to-make cocktails include:

• Gin and Tonic
• Vodka Soda
• Whiskey Sour
• Margarita
• Mojito
• Rum and Coke

How do I make a non-alcoholic version of a cocktail?

To make a non-alcoholic version of a cocktail, substitute the alcoholic ingredients with non-alcoholic alternatives or flavored syrups. For example, use sparkling water instead of spirits, or create mocktails using fresh juices, herbs, and flavored sodas. Many classic cocktails have delicious non-alcoholic counterparts, known as mocktails.

What is the best way to chill a cocktail glass?

To chill a cocktail glass, place it in the freezer for 15-30 minutes before serving. Alternatively, you can fill the glass with ice and cold water while you prepare the cocktail. Just before serving, dump out the ice water and strain the cocktail into the chilled glass.