Mexican Cocktails: Beyond Margaritas

When you think of a Mexican cocktail, you think of a Margarita.

The Margarita, a simple combination of tequila, lime juice and triple sec on the rocks with a salted rim, is Mexican cocktail perfection. The frozen version isn’t half bad either. Add an order of totopos (tortilla chips) and salsa and you’ve got a fiesta.

However, if the only Mexican cocktail you ever order is a margarita, you’re missing out. During your next TravelSmart VIP vacation, broaden your horizons and wash down your tacos with some of these other Mexican concoctions.

Paloma

A Paloma is another simple, but genius combination of tequila, grapefruit soda or juice and lime juice on the rocks with a salted rim. You may never go back to Margaritas after you try this refreshing drink by the pool or with a traditional Mexican meal.

© Didriks | Flickr

Chelada or Michelada

You may have thought there is nothing better than your favorite Mexican beer, but there is. A Chelada is a beer and lime juice on ice with a salted rim. A Michelada, the spicier version, is the same but with Clamato or tomato juice, Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce and Maggi (soy) sauce added.

© TABASCO®

Sangrita

Sangrita isn’t actually a cocktail, but a savory sidecar to a shot of tequila (Please sip don’t shoot!). The glass of Sangrita normally contains tomato juice with a little lime and orange juice, salt, pepper and Tabasco sauce mixed in. Beware, the combo is addictive.

© jlastras | Flickr

Aguas

If you had a few too many late nights or are just looking for a non-alcoholic option, Aguas are a sweet, thirst-quenching choice. Try Agua de Jamaica (hibiscus flower), Agua de Tamarindo (tamarind) or Horchata (rice water).

© thespruceeats

For those die-hard Margarita lovers who still aren’t convinced, try a different version of your favorite Mexican cocktail. A Cadillac Margarita has Grand Marnier added, and Frozen Mango or Tamarind Margaritas are tangy and delicious.

¡Salud!