Ah, Agave. The plant that brings us both tequila and mezcal.
It’s a versatile ingredient that has been enjoyed for centuries, and it’s no surprise that agave cocktails have become increasingly popular in recent years.
As a bartender, I’ve had the pleasure of experimenting with different agave-based ingredients and concocting some delicious drinks.
The beauty of agave cocktails is that they’re not just limited to tequila and mezcal. There are other agave-based spirits like sotol and bacanora that can be used in cocktails as well.
Agave cocktails have a distinct flavor profile that can be described as earthy, smoky, and slightly sweet. This flavor profile makes it a perfect addition to cocktails, as it can add depth and complexity to the drink.
Agave-based cocktails can be enjoyed in a variety of settings, from a casual night out with friends to a formal dinner party.
In this blog post, I’ll be sharing some of the best agave cocktail recipes that I’ve come across in my career as a bartender. These recipes are easy to make and can be enjoyed by both seasoned cocktail enthusiasts and those new to the world of mixology.
Whether you prefer your cocktails sweet or sour, strong or mild, there’s an agave cocktail recipe for everyone. So, grab your shaker and let’s get mixing!
1. Añejo Old Fashioned
The Añejo Old Fashioned is a delightful twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. Instead of using bourbon, this recipe calls for Añejo tequila, which is aged for at least a year and has a rich, caramel flavor.
The addition of agave nectar perfectly complements the tequila, while bitters and orange peel add a touch of complexity to the drink. Served over a large ice cube, this cocktail is perfect for sipping and savoring. If you’re a fan of tequila, this is definitely a cocktail worth trying.
2. Spicy Tequila Old Fashioned
The Spicy Tequila Old Fashioned is a unique twist on the classic cocktail made with Tromba Tequila, fresh grapefruit, agave syrup, and jalapeño. The aged properties of the Reposado or Anejo tequila give this cocktail the whiskey and oak traits that we love in an Old Fashioned.
The simplicity of this cocktail makes it easy to whip up at home without any special ingredients or syrups. If you’re looking for a spicy and flavorful agave cocktail, the Spicy Tequila Old Fashioned is definitely worth a try.
3. Chamomile Citrus Paloma
The Chamomile Citrus Paloma is a tequila-based cocktail that is infused with the essence of edible flowers. This cocktail is perfect for those who love citrus-based drinks and want to try something new. The chamomile citrus simple syrup used in this cocktail is what sets it apart from other Paloma recipes.
The syrup elevates the fresh grapefruit juice and salty rim to a whole new level of deliciousness. This cocktail is perfect for sipping by the pool or enjoying on a hot summer day. If you’re looking for a unique and refreshing tequila cocktail, the Chamomile Citrus Paloma is definitely worth trying.
4. Tommy’s Margarita
If you’re a fan of margaritas, you’ve got to try Tommy’s Margarita. This variation of the classic cocktail was invented by Julio Bermejo at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant in San Francisco in the 1990s. Instead of using triple sec, this recipe calls for agave syrup, which puts emphasis on the flavor of the tequila.
The result is a crisp and refreshing drink that’s perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. If you’re looking to switch things up, try making this cocktail with mezcal instead of tequila for a smokey twist. Trust us, once you try Tommy’s Margarita, you’ll be hooked.
5. Draco Agave
The Draco Agave cocktail is a refreshing and delicious Halloween-inspired tequila cocktail that is perfect for those who love a bramble. This cocktail combines blackberries with creme de cassis, jalapeno, and grapefruit soda to create a unique and flavorful drink.
What’s great about this cocktail is that it allows you to switch up the traditional gin with a number of different spirits, such as tequila, agave, sotol, rhum agricole, cachaca, shochu, and vodka. However, it’s recommended to stick with clear and bright spirits to help the other flavors shine through. If you’re looking for a spooky and tasty cocktail to impress your guests this Halloween, the Draco Agave is definitely worth a try!
6. Hibiscus and Pineapple Margarita With Blue Nectar Tequila
The “Hibiscus and Pineapple Margarita With Blue Nectar Tequila” is a perfect tropical margarita to celebrate any occasion, especially Cinco de Mayo. This cocktail uses a shrub made of fresh pineapple, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and dried hibiscus flowers, which gives it a sweet, tangy, and full of flavor taste.
The Blue Nectar Silver Tequila used in this cocktail is smooth, vibrant, and full of flavor, which complements the prominent fruit flavor of the margarita. This cocktail is perfect for those who like their drinks fruity but with a hint of tequila. Overall, the “Hibiscus and Pineapple Margarita With Blue Nectar Tequila” is a must-try for anyone who loves a good tropical cocktail.
7. Strawberry Margarita
The Strawberry Margarita is a refreshing and fruity cocktail that is perfect for summer days. Made with fresh strawberries, reposado tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and agave nectar, this cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The use of agave nectar as a natural sweetener makes it a healthier option than other artificially sweetened cocktails.
The reposado tequila adds a unique depth of flavor with hints of vanilla and toasty notes from the barrel. This cocktail can be served on the rocks or frozen, and can be rimmed with either salt or sugar depending on your preference. Overall, the Strawberry Margarita is a must-try cocktail for anyone who loves fruity and refreshing drinks.
8. Grilled Mezcal Margaritas
The Grilled Mezcal Margarita is a unique twist on the classic margarita that is sure to impress your taste buds. This cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet, tart, and smoky flavors that come together to create a delicious and complex drink.
The honey syrup adds a touch of sweetness, while the grilled lemon juice provides a tart and smoky flavor that is perfectly complemented by the mezcal. Mezcal, being similar to tequila but with a smokier taste, adds a boozy and smoky twist to this classic cocktail. If you’re looking for a fun and unique cocktail to try, the Grilled Mezcal Margarita is definitely worth a taste.
9. Blood Orange Paloma
The Blood Orange Paloma is a refreshing and healthyish cocktail that is perfect for winter citrus season. This cocktail is sweetened with agave nectar instead of refined sugar, making it a healthier option. It is made with freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, lime juice, and blood orange juice, which gives it a complex and fruity flavor.
The addition of good quality tequila and soda water makes it a perfect balance of sweet and sour. The cocktail is garnished with coarse salt, which adds a nice touch to the overall presentation. If you’re a fan of tequila and citrusy drinks, the Blood Orange Paloma is definitely worth a try.
10. Spicy Paloma
The Spicy Paloma is a refreshing and unique take on the classic Paloma cocktail. This cocktail recipe combines the tangy flavor of grapefruit with the subtle heat of jalapeño and the aromatic notes of basil, resulting in a complex and flavorful drink.
The use of Olmeca Altos Tequila adds a smooth and citrusy dimension to the cocktail, making it a perfect choice for any tequila lover. The Spicy Paloma is a great option for those looking to try something new and exciting in the world of agave cocktails.
11. Orange Crush
The Orange Crush is a refreshing cocktail made with Olmeca Altos Añejo Tequila, orange liqueur, Aperol, orange bitters, and freshly squeezed orange juice.
The addition of fresh lime juice balances out the sweetness, and the complexity of the tequila comes through in the finish. The vibrant orange color and burst of orange flavor make this cocktail a must-try for citrus lovers.
12. Mocha Mezcal Dessert Cocktail
The Mocha Mezcal Dessert Cocktail is a perfect winter cocktail for those looking for a unique and sophisticated flavor profile. This cocktail combines the smoky flavor of mezcal with the sweetness of chocolate syrup and the richness of coffee liqueur.
The addition of coconut milk gives it a creamy texture, while steamed soy or almond milk can be used for a warmer version. The recipe is easy to make and can be adjusted to suit different levels of smokiness in the mezcal. This cocktail is a must-try for mezcal lovers and those looking for a new twist on a classic winter drink.
13. Paloma Cocktail
The Paloma Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail is a twist on the traditional Paloma, which usually includes grapefruit soda. However, this recipe uses freshly squeezed grapefruit juice combined with club soda, which gives it a lovely pink color and a bright citrus flavor.
The tequila pairs perfectly with the grapefruit, making this cocktail a delightful and refreshing drink. If you’re looking for a simple and refreshing cocktail that is sure to impress, the Paloma Cocktail is definitely worth trying. So, grab a glass, mix up a batch, and enjoy!
14. No Smokey Business
“No Smokey Business” is a refreshing and unique Agave Cocktail that combines Mezcal, Yellow Chartreuse, Honey, Fresh Pineapple, Lemon Juice, and a hint of Basil. This cocktail is perfect for those who love a balance of sweet and sour flavors with a touch of smokiness from the Mezcal.
The crushed ice and fresh basil add a summery touch to the drink, making it perfect for sipping on a hot day. The recipe is easy to follow and can be made with ingredients that are easily available in your fridge. If you’re looking for a refreshing and unique Agave Cocktail to try, “No Smokey Business” is definitely worth a shot.
15. Pink Smoke
Looking for an Agave cocktail that’s both smoky and refreshing? Look no further than the Pink Smoke. This cocktail features 1800 Silver Tequila, grapefruit juice, and smoked rosemary, creating a unique and complex flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
The use of rosemary adds an aromatic element to the drink, while the grapefruit juice provides a refreshing citrus note. The smokiness from the rosemary and the tequila make this cocktail perfect for sipping on a cool evening. Trust us, you won’t want to miss out on this one-of-a-kind cocktail experience.
16. Blue Margarita
The Blue Margarita is a tequila-based cocktail with a vibrant ocean blue color that catches the eye. Made with just three ingredients – tequila, blue curacao, and lime juice – it is a refreshing and tangy twist on the classic margarita.
The addition of agave syrup can add extra flavor. This cocktail is perfect for a beach day or summer party, and is sure to impress with its unique flavor and striking appearance.
17. Tamarind Mezcal Mule
The Tamarind Mezcal Mule is a unique and complex cocktail that combines the smoky flavor of mezcal with the sweet-tart taste of tamarind syrup. Topped off with ginger beer, this cocktail is a beautifully balanced sipper that is quick and easy to make.
Mezcal can be a tricky spirit to work with, but the acidity and sweetener in this cocktail temper the smokiness, resulting in a well-balanced and flavorful drink. The addition of ginger beer provides a spicy kick that rounds out the flavors. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious agave-based cocktail.
18. Watermelon Margarita
The Watermelon Margarita is a refreshing and fruity cocktail that is perfect for summertime gatherings with friends. Made with fresh watermelon and sweetened with agave nectar, this cocktail is a healthier alternative to pre-mixed margaritas. Crushed ice is used to water down the sourness of the drink, while lime juice adds a tangy kick.
The choice of tequila can enhance or detract from the flavor, so it’s best to use a good quality one. With just 112 calories per serving, the Watermelon Margarita is a guilt-free indulgence that is sure to impress your guests. Garnished with a watermelon wedge, this cocktail is a taste of summer that will leave you wanting more.
19. Cadillac Margarita
The Cadillac Margarita is a classic cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Made with top-shelf tequila, fresh lime juice, and Grand Marnier, this cocktail is a luxurious twist on the classic margarita. The use of reposado tequila gives it a unique flavor profile that is both nuanced and complex.
The addition of agave syrup adds a touch of sweetness, while the Grand Marnier floater gives it a beautiful, golden color. The cocktail is best served ‘up’ in a signature margarita glass with a salted rim. Whether you’re enjoying it alongside Mexican food or just because, the Cadillac Margarita is sure to impress.
20. Mez-Groni
The Mez-Groni is a unique variation of the classic Negroni that features Los Siete Misterios Mezcal. It adds a layer of complexity and smokiness to the drink, making it perfect for anyone who loves exploring the world of Agave spirits.
The Mez-Groni is a must-try for anyone who loves Negroni and wants to add a new layer of excitement to their cocktail experience.
21. Peach and Jalapeno Margarita
The Peach and Jalapeno Margarita is a unique and refreshing twist on the classic margarita. This cocktail features homemade peach syrup with a touch of peach liqueur, adding a sweet and fruity flavor to the drink. The addition of jalapeno adds a subtle kick of spice to the cocktail, which is balanced perfectly with the other flavors.
The bartender recommends using the jalapeno sparingly, as it can easily overpower the other ingredients. Overall, this cocktail is a great choice for those looking for a refreshing and flavorful drink with a bit of a kick.
22. Passionfruit Tequila Beer Sour
The Passionfruit Tequila Beer Sour is a unique and refreshing cocktail that combines the sweetness of passionfruit with the tanginess of fresh lime, agave, and the newest addition to the LCBO Villa One Blanco Tequila. What makes this cocktail stand out is the addition of local Sidelaunch Passionfruit Sour Beer, which adds a subtle bitterness and effervescence to the drink.
Even if you’re not a beer drinker, you’ll love this cocktail. It’s a perfect balance of sweet and sour, with a hint of tequila and a refreshing finish. This cocktail is perfect for those who love to explore new flavours and trends in the cocktail industry.
23. Rhubarb Strawberry Margaritas
The Rhubarb Strawberry Margarita is a refreshing and fruity twist on the classic margarita. This cocktail celebrates the natural sweetness of rhubarb and strawberry, making it a perfect choice for warmer weather. The recipe involves creating a rhubarb strawberry “syrup” that is mixed with lime juice, silver tequila, and agave nectar.
The cocktail is served over ice with a salted or sugared rim for added flavor. The Rhubarb Strawberry Margarita is a delicious and boozy drink that is perfect for happy hour or pairing with Mexican dishes. If you’re looking for a fruity and light cocktail, this is definitely one to try.
24. Anejo Sidecar
If you’re a tequila lover, the Anejo Sidecar is a must-try cocktail. This twist on the classic Sidecar replaces cognac with Anejo tequila, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. Aged in oak barrels for a year, Anejo tequila has a light smokiness that blends perfectly with the sweetness of the cocktail.
The drink is traditionally served in a coupe glass or a smaller stemmed cocktail glass, making it a perfect choice for a fancy night out or a special occasion. Whether you’re looking for an impressive party drink or an after-dinner treat, the Anejo Sidecar is sure to impress. Don’t miss out on this delicious Agave Cocktail!
25. The Red Pom Cocktail
The Red Pom Cocktail is a perfect choice for those who are looking for a red cocktail to serve on Valentine’s Day or Christmas parties. This cocktail is not only visually stunning with its red color and pomegranate seeds, but it also has a delicious taste.
The recipe requires fresh pomegranate, ruby red grapefruit juice, rum, crushed ice, and agave nectar to sweeten things up. The combination of these ingredients creates a unique flavor that will make this cocktail a sure favorite. If you are looking for a cocktail that is both visually appealing and delicious, The Red Pom Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
26. Kiwi Caipirinha
The Kiwi Caipirinha is a refreshing and unique twist on the classic Brazilian cocktail. This cocktail features the tart and sweet flavors of kiwi and lime, balanced with the distinct taste of cachaça and a touch of agave nectar.
The muddled kiwi adds a fun texture to the drink and the lime juice gives it a bright and zesty kick. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting. So, if you’re looking for a fruity and refreshing drink to add to your cocktail repertoire, the Kiwi Caipirinha is definitely worth a try.
27. Prickly Pear Margarita
The Prickly Pear Margarita is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for the end of summer. This Southwestern drink is made with fresh prickly pears, which give it its stunning pink color.
The cocktail is easy to make and can be customized with a sugar cayenne rim and lime slice garnish. While fresh prickly pears are ideal, pre-made prickly pear syrup can be used as a substitute. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious agave-based drink.
28. Agave Watermelon Lime Vodka-Tini
The Agave Watermelon Lime Vodka-Tini is a refreshing and colorful cocktail that will transport you to summer no matter the season. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to indulge in a sweet treat without the guilt. The watermelon, which is over 90% water, makes this cocktail a hydrating option that will keep you alert.
The twist of lime and shot of agave nectar add a tangy flavor to the drink, making it a perfect balance of sweet and sour. This cocktail is a must-try for those who love fruity drinks and want to switch things up from the usual.
29. Cherry Thyme Prosecco Smash
The Cherry Thyme Prosecco Smash is a refreshing and sweet sparkling cocktail that is perfect for the warm summer months. Made with Prosecco, vodka, agave, and fresh cherries, this cocktail is easy to make and has a beautiful presentation. The addition of thyme gives it a subtle herbal note that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cherries.
This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a light and fruity drink that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. So, if you’re looking for a new cocktail to add to your repertoire, give the Cherry Thyme Prosecco Smash a try and experience the perfect balance of sweet and herbal flavors.
30. Strawberry Basil Limeade
Looking for a refreshing and non-alcoholic cocktail to cool off this summer? Look no further than the Strawberry Basil Limeade. This refined-sugar free drink is made with freshly squeezed lime juice, sweetened with honey syrup, and infused with the delicious flavors of strawberries and basil.
The combination of these ingredients creates a sweet and tangy taste that is perfect for a hot summer day. Plus, with just a few quick swaps or additions, you can easily customize this drink to your liking. So why not give the Strawberry Basil Limeade a try and enjoy a delicious and refreshing drink this summer?
