Tequila is a spirit that has been enjoyed for centuries in Mexico and around the world. Its bold flavor and unique character make it a popular choice for cocktails, both classic and modern.
In recent years, the popularity of tequila has soared, as mixologists experiment with new and exciting ways to showcase this versatile spirit.
If you're a fan of tequila, you're in luck. There are countless modern tequila cocktail recipes out there, each with their own unique twist on the classic spirit.
From fruity and refreshing to spicy and complex, there's a tequila cocktail out there for everyone.
But with so many options to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That's where we come in.
As bartenders, we've tried and tested countless tequila cocktails over the years, and we've narrowed down our favorites to a select few.
In this blog post, we'll be sharing our top picks for the best modern tequila cocktail recipes. Whether you're a tequila aficionado or a newcomer to the spirit, we're confident that you'll find something to love in this list.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover some of the most delicious and inventive tequila cocktails out there.
1. Coconut Jalapeño Margarita
The Coconut Jalapeño Margarita is a modern twist on the classic tequila cocktail that combines spicy jalapeño with cooling coconut for a refreshing and zippy sip. This cocktail is perfect for those who love a little heat in their drink and pairs well with a variety of Mexican dishes such as blackened fish tacos, tamales, and ceviche.
The use of full-fat coconut gives the drink a good body and balances out the heat from the jalapeño. The recipe calls for Fortaleza blanco tequila, which adds a smooth and crisp flavor to the drink. Overall, the Coconut Jalapeño Margarita is a unique and delicious cocktail that is sure to impress any tequila lover.
2. Aperitini
Aperitini is a modern take on the classic Aperol Spritz, made with Campari, Aperol, and Tequila. This cocktail is perfect for those who love the bitterness of the Negroni and the sweetness of the Aperol Spritz.
The addition of Tequila gives this drink a potent kick, while the Prosecco top-up adds a touch of fizz and mellows out the strong flavors. Aperitini is garnished with a slice of orange and rosemary sprigs, giving it a refreshing and aromatic taste. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail, Aperitini is definitely worth a try.
3. Frozen Honey Palomas
The Frozen Honey Paloma is a refreshing and delicious modern tequila cocktail that is perfect for summer sipping. Made with freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, blanco tequila, and a quick honey syrup, this frozen cocktail is a sweet and sour delight that is sure to please. The addition of a pinch of salt or a salted rim really brings out the flavors and makes this drink pop.
Whether you prefer tequila or mezcal, this cocktail can be adapted to your taste. With tips for making the perfect frozen cocktail at home, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress. If you're looking for a modern tequila cocktail that is both refreshing and delicious, the Frozen Honey Paloma is the perfect choice.
4. Siesta Cocktail
The Siesta Cocktail is a modern tequila cocktail that combines the bold flavors of Mexican tequila with the refreshing tanginess of grapefruit and lime. Created by mixologist Katie Stipe in 2006, this cocktail is a spin on the classic Hemingway Daiquiri and features the Italian liqueur, Campari.
The result is a sophisticated and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for summer evenings. Served in a garnished glass, this cocktail is a great addition to any Mexican food recipe. If you're looking to try something new and exciting, the Siesta Cocktail is definitely worth a try!
5. Strawberry Lemonade & Tequila Smash
The Strawberry Lemonade & Tequila Smash is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for summer. Made with just five ingredients, this cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. The juicy strawberries, fresh mint, and sweet agave complement the tequila and lemon juice, making this cocktail a crowd-pleaser.
The cocktail is served in a double old-fashioned glass with a sugar-coated rim and garnished with a lemon slice and fresh mint. If you're looking for a simple and delicious tequila cocktail to enjoy on a warm summer day, the Strawberry Lemonade & Tequila Smash is definitely worth trying.
6. The Siesta Cocktail
Looking for a modern tequila cocktail that is both refreshing and intriguing? Look no further than "The Siesta Cocktail". This unique concoction combines tequila, Campari, and fresh citrus juices to create a perfectly balanced and sophisticated drink.
The sweet and earthy notes of tequila are complemented by the bitter Italian aperitif Campari, while the grapefruit and lime juices add a sweet-tart body and refreshing finish. Invented by New York mixologist Katie Stipe in 2006, this cocktail is a modern classic that is sure to impress your friends. If you're looking for a new tequila cocktail to try, "The Siesta Cocktail" is definitely worth adding to your list.
7. Honey Rose Kombucha Margarita
The Honey Rose Kombucha Margarita is a refreshing and healthier take on the classic margarita. Made with fresh citrus juice, rose water, honey, blanco tequila, and bubbly kombucha, this cocktail is naturally sweetened and made with real fruit juice. The addition of rose water adds a floral note that complements the tartness of the citrus juice, while the kombucha adds a bright and bubbly finish.
This cocktail is perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious margarita without the added sugar and artificial sweeteners found in many restaurant versions. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful modern tequila cocktail, the Honey Rose Kombucha Margarita is definitely worth trying.
8. Honey Paloma
The Honey Paloma is a modern tequila cocktail that is perfect for those who want a refreshing and sweet drink. This cocktail is a twist on the classic Paloma, which is made with tequila and grapefruit soda. The Honey Paloma uses honey syrup instead of regular simple syrup, which adds a unique sweetness to the drink.
The combination of tart grapefruit and sweet honey creates a perfect balance of flavors. The rim of the glass is salted, which adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the drink. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting. The Honey Paloma is a must-try for anyone who loves tequila cocktails.
9. Frozen Sunrise Margaritas
The Frozen Sunrise Margarita is a perfect cocktail for those who are torn between a Tequila Sunrise and a frozen margarita. This delightful slushie is spiked with tequila and boasts the flavors of orange, lime, and pomegranate. The drink is sweet, sour, and salty, hitting all the flavor notes.
The grenadine drizzled down the side of the drink creates a sunset effect, making it a beautiful drink to look at. This cocktail is perfect for celebrating warm weather and can be made easily at home in just five minutes. If you're looking for a refreshing and delicious cocktail to enjoy during the summer, the Frozen Sunrise Margarita is definitely worth a try.
10. Blue Curacao Margarita
The Blue Curacao Margarita is a visually stunning and delicious modern tequila cocktail that's perfect for any summer party or wedding with a blue color palette. The subtle citrus flavor of Blue Curacao complements the traditional margarita flavor, while the sugar/salt combination on the rim of the glass adds a nice twist.
The blueberries on the rim are a fancy touch that complements the color of the beverage, but they aren't necessary for the taste. This cocktail is easy to make and can be served in a regular margarita glass or something fancier like a martini glass. If you're looking for a refreshing and visually appealing tequila cocktail, the Blue Curacao Margarita is definitely worth trying.
11. Skinny Paloma
The Skinny Paloma is a modern twist on the classic tequila cocktail. This refreshing drink is made with fresh muddled pink grapefruit, tequila, agave nectar, and grapefruit sparkling water. The combination of sweet and tart flavors creates a perfect balance that will leave you wanting more.
The addition of lime adds a zesty kick that complements the grapefruit flavors. This cocktail is perfect for sunny days or any occasion where you want a light and refreshing drink. If you're looking for a modern tequila cocktail that's easy to make and delicious, the Skinny Paloma is definitely worth trying.
12. Nasturtium Margaritas
If you're looking for a unique and visually stunning modern tequila cocktail, then the Nasturtium Margarita is definitely worth trying. This cocktail is perfect for those who love a little bit of spice in their drinks, as it features nasturtium petals that add a peppery taste to the cocktail.
The petals are used to flavor the salt-sugar rim and are also muddled into the drink itself, giving it a beautiful and vibrant color. The addition of edible flowers makes this cocktail a perfect choice for special occasions, such as Cinco de Mayo or Mother's Day. If you're looking for a cocktail that's both delicious and visually stunning, then the Nasturtium Margarita is definitely worth trying.
13. Salt Air Margarita
The Salt Air Margarita is a unique twist on the classic Margarita that is sure to impress your taste buds. Topped with a light and airy foam, this cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
The foam is made using a special emulsifier called Sucro, which gives the drink its signature frothy texture. This cocktail is perfect for entertaining guests or for a night in with friends. The Salt Air Margarita is a must-try for anyone looking for a modern take on a classic cocktail.
14. The Deathly Hallows Cocktail
The Deathly Hallows Cocktail is a unique and delicious blend of autumn flavors that is perfect for Halloween. This tequila-based cocktail is mixed with cranberry juice, orange liquor, lemon juice, maple syrup, and ginger beer to create a sweet and smoky taste.
The drink is then finished off with a sprig of fresh thyme that is lit on fire for presentation and to infuse the drink with hints of thyme. The Deathly Hallows Cocktail is a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a spooky and cozy drink this Halloween.
15. Black Manhattan
One of the most intriguing variations of the classic Manhattan cocktail is the Black Manhattan. This modern tequila cocktail replaces the sweet vermouth with amaro, a bitter Italian liqueur made from a variety of herbs, spices, and other ingredients. The result is a complex and sophisticated drink that balances the sweetness of the tequila with the bitterness of the amaro.
The choice of amaro can greatly affect the flavor of the cocktail, making it a fun and adventurous drink to explore. The Black Manhattan is a must-try for anyone looking to expand their cocktail repertoire and experience a unique twist on a classic favorite.
