Shaking Up Tequila Day

Shaking Up Tequila Day

Tequila Day isn’t just about Margaritas — it’s a celebration of one of the world’s most versatile spirits. Whether you’re a longtime tequila lover or a curious newcomer, there’s a whole world of bold, creative cocktails waiting to be explored. This year, we’re shaking things up with five unique recipes that show off tequila’s playful, spicy, and refreshing sides. Ready to find your new favorite sip?

1. Verde Smash

For those who love bright, garden-fresh flavors, this cocktail brings herbal and citrus notes together for a seriously refreshing mix.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz blanco tequila

• 3/4 oz cucumber juice

• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice

• 1/2 oz agave syrup

• Fresh basil leaves (plus extra for garnish)

Instructions:

• Muddle basil and cucumber juice in a shaker.

• Add tequila, lime juice, and agave syrup with ice.

• Shake well and strain into a rocks glass over ice.

• Garnish with a fresh basil leaf.

2. Spiced Tequila Chai Sour

Perfect for cozy evenings or brunch, this cocktail layers warm spice and silky texture with tequila’s smooth finish.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz reposado tequila

• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice

• 3/4 oz chai tea syrup

• 1 egg white (optional)

• Cinnamon powder (for garnish)

Instructions:

• Dry shake all ingredients (no ice) to emulsify.

• Add ice and shake again until chilled.

• Strain into a coupe glass.

• Dust lightly with cinnamon powder.

3. Tequila Cold Brew Flip

Coffee and tequila — a match made in bold, creamy heaven. It’s so perfect as an after-dinner drink.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz añejo tequila

• 1 oz cold brew coffee

• 1/2 oz coffee liqueur

• 1/4 oz simple syrup

• 1 whole egg

Instructions:

• Shake all ingredients without ice first to combine.

• Add ice and shake again until frothy and chilled.

• Strain into a coupe glass.

• (Optional) Garnish with coffee beans.

4. Tamarind Tequila Punch

Did you ever see this coming? Sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of funky, this punch is perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz blanco tequila

• 1 oz tamarind paste (or tamarind concentrate diluted with water)

• 1 oz fresh orange juice

• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice

• Soda water (to top)

• Chili salt rim

Instructions:

• Rim a tall glass with chili salt.

• Shake tequila, tamarind, orange juice, and lime juice with ice.

• Strain into the glass filled with ice.

• Top with soda water and stir gently.

5. Charred Pineapple & Sage Highball

Smoky, sweet, and herbal — this is an island vacation in a glass with a surprising depth of flavor. Ready to dive in?

Ingredients:

• 2 oz reposado tequila

• 1 oz charred pineapple puree (or grilled pineapple blended and strained)

• 1/2 oz sage simple syrup

• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice

• Soda water (to top)

• Charred pineapple wedge or sage sprig (for garnish)

Instructions:

• Shake tequila, pineapple puree, sage syrup, and lemon juice with ice.

• Strain into a highball glass filled with ice.

• Top with soda water and garnish.