Best Tequila Cocktails of 2024

Last Updated on: 17th May 2024, 10:45 pm

J Highland

J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as an agave spirits distiller.

Upgrade your happy hour with these 15 customer-tested Tequila cocktails chosen by Tequila expert Neil Coleman perfect for any occasion including foolproof recipes!

About the Best Tequila Cocktails

• Variety of Tequila Cocktails: Features recipes like Mango Margarita, Blood Orange Margarita, Pineapple Jalapeno Margarita, Tequila Sunrise, Paloma, Mexican Mule, Mexican Martini, and Tequila Sour.
• Importance of Tequila Choice: Emphasizes selecting specific Tequila brands for optimal taste.
• Fresh Ingredients Key: Recommends using natural ingredients for enhanced flavors.
• Cocktail Crafting Tips: Offers guidance on how to effectively mix and serve these drinks.
• Selection Criteria: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as an agave spirits distiller. I assess cocktails using customer feedback, expert opinions from Neil Coleman.

Written by: J Highland

1. Margarita

For a fantastic Margarita, opt for premium, natural ingredients such as freshly squeezed lime juice.

Steer clear of bottled lime juice or mixers, as they often contain artificial additives that can compromise the flavor and add unnecessary calories.

Contrary to popular belief, an expensive Tequila isn't necessary for a great Margarita.

In fact, a peppery and bold Blanco Tequila excels in mixing and adds an extra dimension of flavor to your cocktail.

Margarita Ingredients:

• 2 oz Tequila
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz Cointreau or Triple Sec
• Salt for rimming (optional)

Margarita Preparation Method:

1. Rim the edge of a glass with salt (optional).
2. Fill a shaker with ice.
3. Add Tequila, lime juice, and Cointreau or Triple Sec.
4. Shake until chilled.
5. Strain into the prepared glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy!

Recommended Tequila: Espolon Blanco

2. Mango Margarita

Looking to elevate your Margarita experience?

Introduce the delightful flavor of mango for a sweeter and fruitier twist.

This tropical fruit harmonizes beautifully with lime juice and Tequila, offering a refreshing and vibrant variation.

While mangoes may not be the most affordable option in the United States, opting for natural and authentic mangoes will make a noticeable difference in taste and quality.

Mango Margarita Ingredients:

• 2 oz Tequila
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1 oz triple sec
• 1/2 cup fresh mango, chopped
• 1/2 cup ice

Mango Margarita Preparation Method:

1. Add the chopped mango to a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Add Tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and ice to the blender.
3. Blend until smooth and pour into a salt-rimmed glass.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy!

Recommended Tequila: Altos Plata

3. Blood Orange Margarita

If mangoes aren't your preference, consider experimenting with blood oranges as an alternative for your Margarita.

For an even more exciting experience, why not try both mango and blood orange and determine which flavor you prefer?

To achieve the best results, use fresh blood oranges rather than pre-made alternatives to ensure the desired taste and quality.

Blood Orange Ingredients:

• 2 oz Tequila
• 1 oz blood orange juice
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1/2 oz triple sec
• Salt
• Ice
• Blood orange slice for garnish

Blood Orange Preparation Method:

1. Rim a glass with salt by rubbing a lime wedge around the edge of the glass and dipping it into a shallow dish of salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, blood orange juice, lime juice, and triple sec.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
4. Strain the mixture into the salt-rimmed glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a slice of blood orange.
6. Sip and enjoy your Blood Orange Margarita!

Recommended Tequila: 1800 Silver

4. Pineapple Jalapeno Margarita

If mangoes or blood oranges aren't to your liking, don't worry!

There's another alternative to elevate your Margarita experience.

Give pineapple juice a try and add a jalapeño for a spicy twist that adds a whole new level of flavor and excitement.

It's a unique combination that will surely make your Margarita more interesting and flavorful.

Pineapple Jalapeno Margarita Ingredients:

• 2 oz Tequila
• 1 oz pineapple juice
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1/2 oz triple sec
• 1 jalapeno pepper
• Salt
• Ice
• Pineapple wedge for garnish

Pineapple Jalapeno Margarita Preparation Method:

1. Rim a glass with salt by rubbing a lime wedge around the edge of the glass and dipping it into a shallow dish of salt.
2. Slice the jalapeno pepper and add it to the cocktail shaker.
3. Add Tequila, pineapple juice, lime juice, and triple sec to the shaker.
4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
5. Strain the mixture into the salt-rimmed glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a pineapple wedge.
7. Sip and enjoy your Pineapple Jalapeno Margarita!

Recommended Tequila: Herradura Silver

5. Tequila Sunrise

The Tequila Sunrise holds a special place in my heart as it brings back memories of the Eagles, one of my all-time favorite bands.

While it's often associated with warm summer days, this cocktail can be enjoyed on any occasion, bringing a touch of nostalgia and delight to your glass.

Tequila Sunrise Ingredients:

• 2 oz Tequila
• 4 oz orange juice
• 3/4 oz grenadine
• Ice
• Orange slice and cherry for garnish

Tequila Sunrise Preparation Method:

1. Top glass with ice.
2. Add Tequila and orange juice to the glass and stir.
3. Slowly pour in the grenadine, allowing it to sink to the bottom of the glass.
4. Garnish with an orange slice and cherry.
5. Serve and enjoy!

Recommended Tequila: Jose Cuervo Silver

6. Paloma

Palomas have gained immense popularity in Mexico, surpassing even the demand for Margaritas at my pub.

The key to making a great Paloma is using natural grapefruit juice instead of soda, which elevates the flavor and authenticity of this refreshing cocktail.

Paloma Ingredients:

• 2 oz Tequila
• 4 oz Grapefruit juice or Soda
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• Salt for rimming (optional)
• Grapefruit wedge for garnish

Paloma Preparation Method:

1. Rim the edge of a glass with salt (optional).
2. Fill the glass with ice.
3. Add tequila and lime juice to the glass and stir.
4. Top with grapefruit soda and stir gently.
5. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge.
6. Sip and enjoy your refreshing Paloma!

Recommended Tequila: Jimador Blanco

7. Spicy Paloma

Looking to elevate the traditional Paloma?

Enhance the flavor by adding jalapeño, chili powder, and a bold Tequila, creating a spicier and more vibrant experience.

Though it requires a bit more effort, the resulting taste is well worth the extra steps.

Spicy Paloma Ingredients:

• 2 oz Tequila
• 3 oz grapefruit juice
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1/2 oz agave nectar
• 1 slice of jalapeño pepper
• Ice
• Salt and chili powder for rimming
• Grapefruit wedge for garnish

Spicy Paloma Preparation Method:

1. Rim the edge of a glass with a mixture of salt and chili powder.
2. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the jalapeño slice.
3. Add tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave nectar to the shaker.
4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
5. Strain the mixture into the salt and chili powder-rimmed glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge.
7. Enjoy!

Recommended Tequila: Exotico Blanco

8. Tequila Ranch Water

Ranch Water, a refreshing cocktail, is best enjoyed during the upcoming warmer months.

This easy-to-make drink is enhanced by the addition of a peppery Blanco Tequila, adding a delightful flavor profile.

For an authentic experience, use Topo Chico, Mexico's beloved sparkling water.

Ranch Water Ingredients:

• 2 oz Tequila
• 1 oz lime juice
• Topo Chico or other sparkling water
• Ice
• Lime wedge for garnish

Ranch Water Preparation Method:

1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Add Tequila and lime juice to the glass and stir.
3. Top with Topo Chico or other sparkling water.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge.
5. Sip and enjoy your refreshing Tequila Ranch Water!

Recommended Tequila: Camarena Silver

9. Mexican Mule

The Mexican Mule stands out among its counterparts, the Irish Whiskey Mule and Moscow Mule, as it offers a hangover-free experience without the risk of headaches or other discomforts.

While traditionally served in a copper mug, you can still enjoy this cocktail in any glassware of your choice, eliminating the need for an additional expense.

Mexican Mule Ingredients:

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

Mexican Mule Preparation Method:

1. Fill a copper mug (or tumbler) with ice.
2. Add Tequila and lime juice to the glass and stir.
3. Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge.
5. Enjoy!

Recommended Tequila: Dulce Vida Blanco

10. Mexican Martini

The Martini hailed as the monarch of cocktails, is often misattributed to Italy but actually traces its roots to Martinez, California.

For a unique twist, replace the traditional Gin or Vodka with Tequila (or perhaps both, à la James Bond), and savor a delightful variation of this classic cocktail.

Mexican Martini Ingredients:

• 2 oz Tequila
• 1 oz orange liqueur
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1/2 oz olive brine
• Salt for rimming
• Olive or lime wedge for garnish

Recommended Tequila: Peligroso Silver

Mexican Martini Preparation Method:

1. Rim the edge of a martini glass with salt.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add Tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and olive brine to the shaker.
4. Shake well and strain into the salt-rimmed martini glass.
5. Garnish with an olive or lime wedge.
6. Sip and enjoy!

11. Tequila Sour

While traditionally crafted with bourbon, the addition of a Reposado Tequila can elevate this cocktail to new heights of flavor and enjoyment.

However, if you adhere to a vegan lifestyle, it's advisable to omit the egg whites from the recipe or explore alternative ingredients that align with your dietary preferences.

Tequila Sour Ingredients:

• 2 oz Tequila
• 3/4 oz lemon juice
• 3/4 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
• Ice
• Lemon slice for garnish

Tequila Sour Preparation Method:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Tequila, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon slice.
6. Sip and enjoy your frothy and delicious Tequila Sour!

Recommended Tequila: Tequileño Reposado

12. Tequila Old Fashioned

Elevate the classic Old Fashioned cocktail by incorporating a sweet Añejo Tequila, providing a delightful twist to the traditional bourbon base.

Opting for an affordable yet flavorful Añejo Tequila ensures a satisfying drinking experience.

However, exercise caution when using Angostura Bitters, as they possess a pronounced bitterness that can impact the overall balance of the cocktail.

Tequila Old Fashioned Ingredients:

• 2 oz Tequila
• 1 tsp sugar or simple syrup
• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
• Ice
• Orange or lemon peel for garnish

Tequila Old Fashioned Preparation Method:

1. In an Old Fashioned glass, dissolve sugar or simple syrup in a splash of water.
2. Add a few ice cubes to the glass.
3. Add Tequila and bitters to the glass and stir until well combined.
4. Garnish with an orange or lemon peel.
5. Enjoy!

Recommended Tequila: El Mayor Añejo

13. Tequila Mojito

Tequila Mojitos offer a superior alternative to traditional rum-based Mojitos, especially for those conscious of sugar intake and seeking a lower-calorie option.

Crafted with Tequila made from agave, which is naturally low in sugar content, these Mojitos provide a refreshing and flavorful choice without the risk of post-consumption headaches often associated with sugary rums.

Tequila Mojito Ingredients:

• 2 oz Tequila
• 1 oz lime juice
• 3-4 mint leaves
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Soda water
• Ice
• Mint sprig for garnish

Tequila Mojito Preparation Method:

1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the mint leaves.
2. Add Tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top the glass with soda water.
6. Garnish with a mint sprig.
7. Enjoy!

Recommended Tequila: Tres Agaves Blanco

14. Tequila Daisy

The Tequila Daisy, although a classic cocktail that may be considered outdated, remains a refreshing option that is particularly well-suited for the summer season.

It is a simple cocktail to prepare, emphasizing the importance of using natural ingredients to enhance its taste and overall enjoyment.

Tequila Daisy Ingredients:

• 2 oz Tequila
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1/2 oz grenadine syrup
• Soda water
• Ice
• Lime wedge for garnish

Tequila Daisy Preparation Method:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine Tequila, lime juice, and grenadine syrup.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top the glass with soda water.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.
6. Enjoy!

15. Tequila Fizz

The Tequila Fizz is a delightful and sweet cocktail known for its refreshing qualities, traditionally made with Gin.

However, you have the option to substitute the simple syrup with agave nectar for a unique twist.

Tequila Fizz Ingredients:

• 2 oz Tequila
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Soda water
• Ice
• Lime wedge for garnish

Tequila Fizz Preparation Method:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine Tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top the glass with soda water.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.
6. Enjoy!

16. Tequila Smash

I have a personal fondness for this cocktail as it incorporates my favorite fruit, berries, adding a delightful sweetness to the mix.

The addition of mint leaves lends a refreshing and invigorating element, enhancing the overall experience.

If you prefer a sweeter taste, feel free to adjust the amount of simple syrup to your liking.

Tequila Smash Ingredients:

• 2 oz Tequila
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 3-4 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 3-4 fresh mint leaves
• Club soda
• Ice

Tequila Smash Preparation Method:

1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the sliced strawberries and mint leaves.
2. Add Tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda.
6. Garnish with a strawberry and a sprig of mint.
7. Enjoy!

Recommended Tequila: Milagro Silver

You can read this post in Spanish by visiting: Cócteles con Tequila!