Tequila, with its unique agave character and vibrant versatility, is the very essence of a summer spirit.

From the iconic, salt-rimmed classic to sophisticated sips and surprising new serves, it's the perfect way to bring the taste of Mexico to your glass. As we continue our Summer Spirits Spotlight, let's explore three essential tequila cocktails and uncover a truly distinctive gem.

The Classics: Three Essential Tequila Cocktails

These cocktails are celebrated for a reason—they perfectly capture the spirit of tequila, making them go-to choices for any occasion.

The Margarita

• Why it's a classic: The undisputed queen of tequila cocktails, the Margarita is a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and salty. While its exact origin is debated, its status as a global icon is not. It's the ultimate crowd-pleaser and a staple for a reason.
• Flavour Profile: Tart, sweet, and zesty, with the earthy, peppery notes of tequila beautifully balanced by fresh lime. The salt rim adds a crucial savoury element.
• Best for: Parties, Mexican food nights, or whenever you need a refreshing, zesty pick-me-up.

Simple Recipe:

• 50ml Tequila Blanco
• 25ml Triple Sec (like Cointreau)
• 25ml Fresh Lime Juice
• Garnish: Salt for the rim and a lime wheel.
• Method: Run a lime wedge around the rim of a rocks or Margarita glass and dip it in salt. Combine tequila, triple sec, and lime juice in a shaker with ice. Shake well until chilled. Strain into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice.

The Tequila Sunrise

• Why it's a classic: Named for its stunning layered appearance resembling a sunrise, this vibrant cocktail is as beautiful as it is delicious. It became hugely popular in the 1970s and is a favourite for its sweet, fruity profile and simple elegance.
• Flavour Profile: Sweet and fruity from the orange juice and grenadine, with the crisp tequila providing a solid foundation.
• Best for: Brunch, poolside sipping, or as a visually impressive party drink.

Simple Recipe:

• 50ml Tequila Blanco
• 100ml Orange Juice
• 15ml Grenadine
• Garnish: An orange slice and a maraschino cherry.
• Method: Fill a highball glass with ice. Add tequila and orange juice and stir to combine. Slowly pour the grenadine down the inside of the glass so it sinks to the bottom, creating the "sunrise" effect. Garnish and serve without stirring.

The Paloma

• Why it's a classic: Often hailed as Mexico's favourite tequila drink, the Paloma is wonderfully simple yet incredibly refreshing. Its combination of tequila and grapefruit soda is crisp, slightly bitter, and beautifully balanced, making it an ideal alternative to a G&T.
• Flavour Profile: Zesty, bittersweet, and effervescent. The bright grapefruit notes are the star of the show, perfectly complementing the agave spirit.
• Best for: Casual gatherings, barbecues, or as a lighter, fizzier serve.

Simple Recipe:

• 50ml Tequila Blanco
• 15ml Fresh Lime Juice
• Grapefruit Soda, to top
• Garnish: A grapefruit wedge.
• Method: Fill a highball glass with ice. Squeeze the lime juice into the glass, then add the tequila. Top with grapefruit soda and stir gently to combine. Garnish and serve.

The Niche Gem: The El Diablo

Stepping away from the usual, the El Diablo (The Devil) is a spicy, fruity, and complex cocktail that showcases tequila's ability to stand up to bold flavours. It's a fantastic choice for those looking for something new and intriguing.

• Why it's niche (and delicious): The name itself is a hint at its fiery kick from the ginger beer, which is balanced by the rich blackcurrant sweetness of crème de cassis and the tartness of fresh lime. It's less common but delivers a powerful, memorable flavour.
• Flavour Profile: Spicy and gingery, with a fruity sweetness and a tart finish. It's a delightful mix of complexity and refreshment.
• Best for: Adventurous cocktail lovers, fans of ginger beer, or for a unique evening drink with a surprising depth of flavour.

Simple Recipe:

• 50ml Tequila Blanco
• 15ml Crème de Cassis
• 15ml Fresh Lime Juice
• 120ml Ginger Beer
• Garnish: A lime wheel or wedge.
• Method: Fill a highball glass with ice. Add tequila, crème de cassis, and lime juice. Top with ginger beer and stir gently. Garnish and serve.