How to Make a Tequila and Soda Cocktail
club soda to top
Add the ingredients in a tall glass or tumbler filled with ice. The order is indifferent. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a lime wheel.
If you’re looking for a simple, refreshing drink, the tequila and soda cocktail is an excellent choice. Combining the distinct flavours of tequila with the crisp effervescence of soda, this cocktail is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to craft the ideal tequila and soda using the premium quality of Olmeca Altos tequila.
What is a Tequila Soda?
A tequila soda is a refreshing cocktail that highlights the pure flavour of tequila paired with sparkling water or soda water. This drink is known for its simplicity and lightness, making it a popular choice for a hot day or as a casual, easy-to-make beverage.
Ingredients for a Tequila and Soda Cocktail
The simplest version consists of three ingredients. We recommend the Altos Sonic recipe, with the addition of lime and mint:
- 50 ml / 1 ⅓ parts Altos Plata
- Equal parts of tonic water and club soda to top
- Lime and mint (optional)
Types of tequila to use
When preparing a tequila soda, the choice of tequila significantly influences the overall flavour. Here are three types to consider:
- Blanco: Fresh and unaged, ideal for a bright, crisp cocktail.
- Reposado: Aged for a few months, providing a smoother, slightly oakier profile.
- Añejo: Aged for at least a year, offering richer and deeper flavours.
Types of soda water
Your choice of soda can also affect the drink’s flavour:
- Club Soda: Adds a slightly salty and mineral flavor, complementing the tequila.
- Sparkling Water: Lighter in taste, ideal for a more neutral base.
How to Make a Tequila Soda Recipe
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to making the perfect tequila soda, often referred to as the “Altos Sonic” by Olmeca Altos:
- Measure your tequila: Add 50 ml (1⅓ parts) of Olmeca Altos Plata to a tall glass or tumbler filled with ice.
- Add soda water: Top with equal parts tonic water and club soda, adjusting the amount based on your preferred strength and flavour.
- Garnish: Add a lime wedge and a sprig of mint for extra freshness. You can also rim the glass with salt for a salty kick.
In just two simple steps, you can create a professional-quality cocktail that’s both refreshing and balanced.
Tips for the Perfect Mix
Making the perfect tequila soda is all about balance and quality. By focusing on a few key details, you can elevate this simple cocktail to a new level. Here are some tips to ensure every sip is just right:
- Use fresh ice: The colder your drink, the better the mix of tequila and soda.
- Balance your flavours: Keep the ratio of tequila to soda around 1:3 for the best experience.
- Opt for quality ingredients: Use a high-quality tequila like Olmeca Altos for a smoother finish.
Variations of the Tequila Soda Drink
Looking to switch up your tequila soda? There are plenty of variations you can try to give this simple drink a new twist:
- Adding flavours: Try enhancing your tequila soda with a splash of grapefruit juice, or add a slice of cucumber for a refreshing and light flavour. You can also experiment with different citrus fruits like lemon or orange to change the flavour profile.
- Using flavoured sodas: Swap out the plain soda water for flavoured sparkling waters such as lime, berry, or even coconut. These subtle flavours can complement the natural taste of the tequila and add more complexity to your drink.
- Low-calorie options: For a lighter version, stick with plain soda water or flavoured soda water without added sugars. This keeps the drink low in calories while maintaining its refreshing qualities.
Other Citrus Fruits to Combine with Tequila Soda Water
If you don’t particularly like lime, or you want to slightly vary the flavour of the cocktail, we recommend using other citrus fruits as an accompaniment. It is common to prepare it with lime, but here are three alternative citrus fruits that you can consider:
- Orange: to give a sweeter touch to an already bitter drink.
- Lemon: although sweeter than lime, it keeps the characteristic acidity of lime intact.
- Grapefruit: a version more similar to Paloma.
Recommendations Similar to Altos Sonic Cocktail
If you’re in the mood to try other simple tequila-based cocktails that share the same easy and refreshing nature as a tequila soda, here are some great alternatives:
- Ranch Water Recipe: Made with tequila blanco, water, and lime, Ranch Water is another straightforward and refreshing option. This cocktail is as simple as it gets, using only everyday ingredients.
- Lemon Margarita: Lime typically shines in margaritas, but using lemon instead brings a unique balance of acidity and sweetness, giving a fresh twist on the classic margarita.
- Tequila Collins: A sweeter cocktail, the Tequila Collins sticks to the simplicity of soda or tonic-based drinks while adding a touch of sweetness with its combination of tequila, lemon juice, and simple
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making a Tequila Soda
Even with a simple cocktail like tequila soda, a few common mistakes can impact the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Using the wrong type of tequila: Avoid overly aged or low-quality tequila for this light cocktail.
- Overcomplicating the drink: Stick to the basics—too many ingredients can overpower the simple charm of the drink.
- Incorrect ratios: Too much or too little soda can throw off the balance. Aim for 1 part tequila to 3 parts soda.
Elevate your Soda Water and Tequila Cocktail with Olmeca Altos
What sets your tequila soda apart is the tequila itself. Olmeca Altos is crafted with 100% blue agave, ensuring a quality flavour that shines in simple cocktails. Whether you use the Blanco for a clean taste or the Reposado for a smoother finish, your tequila soda will have an artisanal touch.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tequila Soda
Can you use flavored tequila?
Yes, flavoured tequilas can add an extra layer of taste to your soda cocktail, but for the purest flavour, stick with unflavoured tequila.
What’s the best ratio of tequila to soda?
A 1:3 ratio of tequila to soda water works well, but you can adjust based on personal preference.
Is it better with ice or without?
Ice is recommended as it keeps the drink cold and enhances the overall refreshing experience.