Tequila Shots: The Ultimate Guide (All You Need to Know)

There’s no drink more fun for a party with friends or to start a long night of self-destruction than Tequila shots.

They’re perfect for getting the party started before what will surely be an unforgettable night.

Table of Contents

Types of Tequila shots:

Here are 9 variations of Tequila Shots and a complete guide on how to enjoy them to the fullest.

Cucaracha Shot

Don’t worry, the taste of this cocktail is more pleasant than its name.

Although, like most party shots, it is a strong drink, only suitable for folks that enjoy risk-taking.

But what’s really risky about this cocktail is the way it’s consumed. “Cucaracha”, also known as “Brave Bull”, is a drink that is enjoyed flaming and must be finished before the flame goes out and without melting the straw.

Without a doubt, this is a cocktail for adventurers and thrill-seekers.

Does this sound like you? Then enjoy a “Cucaracha” and challenge your friends to try it too.

Cucaracha ingredients:

1 ounce of Blanco Tequila
1 ounce of coffee liqueur (Kahlua is best)
Garnish: flaming with a lighter

Tequila Slammer

This is a strong Tequila shot variation that also comes with an interesting ritual when enjoying it

Although it is a lighter shot compared to the previous drink.

The Tequila Slammer is made up of only two ingredients, making it very easy to make.

To make it, you only need Tequila and a carbonated beverage, usually Sprite.

However, other sodas such as 7-Up, Ginger Ale, Mountain Dew can be used.

Just be aware that mixing Tequila with sugary sodas gives hangovers!

To drink it, it is recommended to give the shot glass a sharp tap on the table to awaken the effervescent effect of the Sprite.

It should be tasted in one sip before the bubbling effect ends.

Tequila Slammer ingredients:

1.5 ounces of Tequila
1.5 ounces of Sprite

If you want to minimise calorie consumption use Topo Chico which us the best sparkling water south of the border.

Banderita Shot

Banderita (Little Flag) is a cocktail presented in three Tequila glasses with different ingredients.

The first contains Tequila, the second, lemon juice, and the third, Sangrita, a non-alcoholic drink typical of Mexico that is an excellent complement to Tequila.

This Tequila shot variation represents the colours of the Mexican and is perfect to celebrate Cinco de Mayo!

Banderita is a moderately strong drink that is more enjoyable when sipped slowly.

Although it can also be consumed in one shot to make it more fun.

Banderita ingredients:

1 ounce of Blanco Tequila
1 ounce of lime juice
1 ounce of Sangrita

Apocalypse Now Shots

Apocalypse Now is a very fitting name for this cocktail, as it is a risky but interesting mix of Tequila, vermouth, and Irish cream Bailey’s promising to deliver a headache the following morning.

It owes its name to Francis Ford Coppola‘s film, which was undoubtedly a great success back in the 80s.

The conceptual risk, strength, and being a unique and unusual experience are some of the characteristics that the movie and the cocktail have in common.

Therefore, we invite you to try this strong party shot that can become the best candidate to start a long night of heavy partying or to celebrate St. Patrick’s if you are not so fond of Irish Whiskey.

Apocalypse Now ingredients:

1/2 ounce of dry vermouth
1/2 ounce of Irish cream Bailey’s
1/2 ounce of Blanco tequila

Bandera Mexicana (Mexican Flag)

Bandera Mexicana (Mexican Flag) is a Tequila shot that is often confused with the Banderita, the first on this list.

However, they are quite different from each other.

Mexican Bandera shot is served in a single Tequila glass, and the colors that the different layers that make up this cocktail are much more intense.

That’s what happens when using mint and grenadine liqueurs to represent the green and red hues, respectively; Blanco Tequila provides the white color.

Bandera Mexicana ingredients:

1/3 ounce of grenadine
1/3 ounce of green mint cream”
1/3 ounce of Blanco Tequila

Serve slowly to ensure the layered effect.

Crouching Tiger Shot

Crouching Tiger is a cocktail whose name in Spanish, Tigre Agazapado, refers to the hidden strength and surprise that this drink can bring.

Just like a crouching tiger can catch its prey off guard, this cocktail can also surprise you.

The pale pink colour from the lychee liqueur makes it seem like a light and smooth drink, when in fact it is a very strong shot.

Its taste is not overpowering, so it’s common to drink more than one Crouching Tiger without even realizing it and getting very drunk; so drink with caution!

Crouching Tiger ingredients:

0.75 ounces of reposado tequila
0.75 ounces of lychee liqueur juice

Serve chilled for a better experience!

Tequila Shot with Tabasco Sauce

If you are fond of spice, this Tequila shot variation is the best choice for you as it adds Tabasco sauce.

The powerful combination of Tequila and just a few drops of Tabasco will spice things up making your Tequila shot more rewarding.

For Mexicans, the spiciness of Tabasco sauce may not be significant and only adds an interesting touch to the drink.

However, for anyone who is not used to consuming spicy foods, this cocktail is only suitable for the bravest and most adventurous palates.

Tequila Shot with Tabasco Sauce ingredients:

1 ounce of Blanco Tequila
2 drops of Tabasco sauce (more if you like it more spicy)

El Vocho (The Beetle) Shot

The Beetle is one of the most interesting Tequila shots on this list, as it is a drink that is divided into two parts.

The first shot glass is filled with Reposado Tequila, while the second is filled with a pineapple juice accompanied by strong spices.

Its name comes from the green color of the old Beetle taxis that used to circulate in Mexico City.

It is a strong cocktail, although you may not notice its effects right away, as they tend to take some time to appear.

El Vocho ingredients:

1.5 ounces of Reposado Tequila
3 ounces of pineapple juice
10 cilantro leaves
10 mint leaves
2 small slices of jalapeño.

Flatliner Shot

The Flatliner cocktail is a very interesting Tequila shot.

It is a layered drink made up of Tequila, Tabasco sauce, and Sambuca, an Italian liqueur with an anise flavor.

The result of combining these ingredients is a strong, intense flavored cocktail that we recommend trying when you have a glass of water or lemonade at hand to use as a chaser.

The taste is so explosive that you will need to try something refreshing after this drink to feel more relieved.

This cocktail is recommended as an experience of great intensity, so don’t over do it.

Flatliner ingredients:

1 ounce of Reposado Tequila
1 ounce of Sambuca
8 drops of Tabasco sauce

How do you do a Tequila Shot?

Choose your warrior: Any Tequila works but I suggest using a mid-range Blanco Tequila as the expensive ones are better suited for tasting.
Pour 1-2 ounces of Tequila into a shot glass.
Sprinkle some salt on the back of your hand or on a plate.
Lick the salt off your hand or the plate where you sprinkled it.
Shoot down the Tequila shot in one gulp.
After shooting the Tequila, suck a lime or a lemon wedge to help cut the taste of the Tequila and cleanse your palate.

Why do you lick salt before Tequila?

Licking salt before drinking Tequila is the norm as people believe it enhances the experience of the Tequila shot.

Salt is placed on the back of the hand between the thumb and index finger.

After licking the salt, Tequila is shot down, followed by a bite into a slice of lime.

Salt is believed to enhance the flavor of the Tequila and also help to neutralize the strong taste of the alcohol.

The lime is said to help cleanse the palate and remove the aftertaste of the Tequila.

How many Tequila shots to get drunk?

For those with limited experience one shot is enough to get drunk while some folks like me need around seven to get wasted.

In general, most people get drunk around the third shot.

Marcas de Tequila strongly suggests you to drink with caution and in a safe environment surrounded by trusted people.

And please don’t drive after shooting down Tequila!

Tequila shots alcohol percentage

The vast majority of Tequilas are bottled at 80 proof (40% ABV) which is the same as vodka and most Scotch Whisky.

Things to AVOID when shooting down Tequila

Don’t overdo sugary drinks or too much juice as it can lead to a bad hangover.
Don’t take too many shots at once, as it can quickly lead to intoxication and a nasty morning.
Don’t forget to eat and hydrate as they can be harsh on an empty stomach.
Don’t forget to pace yourself and know your limits when it comes to alcohol consumption.

Recommended Tequilas

Blancos make the best shooters and these are 3 favourites.

The first is super smooth, the second is not so smooth and the third is quite punchy so you choose the one that better suits your style:

1800 Silver – Smoothest

Nose: Agave, pepper, orange, alcohol
Palate: Fruity notes, agave, pepper, orange
Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks, cocktails

1800 Silver is the best option for those who want a smooth shooter with no burn on the way down.

It is also quite cheap and works well in Tequila cocktails making it versatile.

And finally, it is 100% agave promising a hangover-free morning; as long as you show some restraint.

The nose kicks-off with a smooth agave aroma, followed by black pepper, citrus and an alcoholic note that fades as you let it breathe.

On the palate, 1800 Silver is soft, with a sweet taste, some agave flavor, a touch of orange and a dash of black pepper.

It does not have much of a finish, yet leaves a subtle sweet note behind and a bit of pepper.

Espolon Blanco – Not so smooth

Nose: Agave, black pepper, citrus, alcohol
Palate: Agave, black pepper, citrus
Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
How to drink: Cocktails

Espolon Blanco is one of the best, if not the best Tequila for mixed drinks as it provides a pleasant peppery taste that works incredibly well in cocktails.

It also works nicely in shots as it feels tasty yet doesn’t overwhelm providing a good experience.

The skeleton in the bottle looks super cool standing-out in the cabinet.

The nose is light displaying an earthy aroma, with a dash of black pepper and a bit of ethanol.

On the palate, Espolon Blanco is a bit warm at first, but as you let it develop it becomes somewhat sweet with some fruity notes and vanilla.

The finish has a medium-length, with citrus and a peppery and warming note.

Tapatio 110 – Best for Bold Shots

Nose: Agave, black pepper, grapefruit
Palate: Agave, pepper, lime, mint, orange
Alcohol content: 110 proof (55% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks, High-end cocktails
Similar to: Fortaleza Still Strength

Tapatio 110 is a high-proof Tequila ideal for those who want something more punchy.

110 implies that this Tequila is bottled at 110 proof (55% ABV) which is high when compared to most Tequilas that are bottled at 80 proof (40% ABV) meaning they have far less alcohol content.

What makes Tapatio 110 special is that despite the high proof it doesn’t feel warm, drinks quite nicely and it’s a great option when in the mood to make overly tasty cocktails or bold shots.