6 Classic Cocktails That Swap in Tequila
Tequila and mezcal add depth and personality to a range of classic cocktails, from Old Fashioneds to martinis. [...] Read More... The post 6 Classic Cocktails That Swap in Tequila appeared first on Wine Enthusiast.
As tequila continues its global rise, the agave spirit is disrupting classic cocktails everywhere, subbing in as the main spirit in everything from Negronis to martinis.
“Agave spirits have so much depth to offer to classic cocktails,” says Sarah Kornegay, bar manager at The Katharine in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. ”While once seen only as the ‘party’ pour, they bring complexity – think sweetness, earthy, vegetal layers and a solid structure that can elevate nearly any drink.”
To experience the true versatility and complexity of tequila, read all about the rise of the agave spirit substitution trend—or try making these tequila-forward riffs on classic cocktails.
Tequila Sherry Flip
In the lively tequila sherry flip, Charlotte Voise reimagines the classic flip cocktail. Invented hundreds of years ago, the flip is a class of drinks consisting of a fortified wine or liquor, sugar and a whole egg, all shaken together.
Mexican Martini
Yes, you can make a tequila-heavy martini, and this boozy, slightly salty Mexican martini proves it. Make sure to squeeze the lime juice fresh, and to use the best tequila you can get your hands on, since it’s so prominent in this drink.
Oaxaca Old Fashioned
Invented by Phil Ward at New York City’s Death & Co in 2007, the Oaxaca Old Fashioned arguably launched the tequila cocktail boom in the States. To this day, the smoky Old Fashioned riff is one of the bar’s most-ordered drinks, and it’s been replicated endlessly around the world.
Reposado Martinez
Aged tequila subs in for gin in this variation on the classic Martinez (which ordinarily consists of Old Tom gin, sweet vermouth and maraschino liqueur.) The Reposado Martinez also calls for full-bodied, bittersweet Barolo Chinato to take vermouth’s place.
Hibiscus Sangria
Whether you define sangria as a “classic cocktail” or not, you have to admit it’s quite special to see it spiked with tequila, which is why we love this floral, zippy Hibiscus Sangria. For the wine component, we recommend a fruity red with high acidity and low to medium tannins. Try Gamay, Valpolicella, Barbera or Zweigelt.
Naked and Famous
Speaking of famous Death & Co. cocktails, the Naked and Famous is another one of the legendary bar’s most successful riffs. Bartender Joaquín Simó invented the sunset-orange drink in 2011, calling it “a bastard love child … borne out of an illicit Oaxacan love affair between a classic Last Word and Sam Ross’s Paper Planes cocktail.”
More Cocktail Coverage
- We can’t get enough of gin and tonics these days. Try a few of our favorite G&Ts.
- Dill is showing up in cocktails everywhere, and we’re pretty pleased with that.
- These Mexican cocktail recipes are perfect for Cinco de Mayo or really any day of the year.
- We dare you to graduate from espresso martinis and level up with this aged rum cocktail made with cold brew.
In the Shop
Dial-a-Recipe Cocktail Shaker and Bar Tools Set
In Stock | $24.99
The post 6 Classic Cocktails That Swap in Tequila appeared first on Wine Enthusiast.
