With its rich history and versatility, Agave has become a staple in the world of mixology. From tequila to mezcal, sotol to bacanora, this plant-based spirit has given rise to an array of unique and delicious cocktails. As a bartender, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring the many facets of agave-based drinks, and I’m excited to share some of my favorite recipes with you.
The earthy, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor profile of agave makes it an ideal addition to cocktails, adding depth and complexity that’s hard to find in other spirits. Whether you’re looking for a casual nightcap or a sophisticated drink to impress your friends, agave cocktails have something for everyone.
In this post, I’ll be sharing some of the most impressive and easy-to-make agave cocktail recipes out there, perfect for both seasoned mixologists and those just starting their journey into the world of craft cocktails.
Añejo Old Fashioned
Añejo Old Fashioned offers an intriguing departure from the traditional Old Fashioned, substituting Añejo tequila – aged to perfection for at least a year and boasting a deep, caramel-like flavor profile – for bourbon. The result is a harmonious blend of rich flavors, as agave nectar expertly complements the tequila’s subtle nuances, while bitters and orange peel introduce a satisfying depth. Served over a substantial ice cube, this cocktail invites leisurely sipping and contemplation.
For those who appreciate tequila, this Añejo-infused Old Fashioned is an absolute must-try experience.
Spicy Tequila Old Fashioned
Incorporating the bold flavors of Mexico into the classic Old Fashioned, the Spicy Tequila Old Fashioned brings together Tromba Tequila, fresh grapefruit, agave syrup, and a hint of heat from jalapeño. The aged tequila, whether Reposado or Anejo, adds a depth reminiscent of whiskey and oak, expertly balancing the spicy and sweet elements. What’s remarkable about this cocktail is its accessibility – with no special ingredients required, it’s a breeze to craft at home.
For those seeking an agave-based drink that packs a punch, the Spicy Tequila Old Fashioned is an excellent choice.
Chamomile Citrus Paloma
Imbued with the subtle essence of edible flowers, the Chamomile Citrus Paloma stands out from other Paloma recipes by incorporating a chamomile citrus simple syrup. This innovative twist elevates the combination of fresh grapefruit juice and salty rim to new heights of flavor complexity. Perfect for sipping poolside or on a sweltering summer day, this unique tequila cocktail is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
With its refreshing and revitalizing qualities, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a distinctive drinking experience.
Tommy’s Margarita
Experience the revitalized classic, Tommy’s Margarita, invented by Julio Bermejo at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant in San Francisco during the 1990s. By substituting triple sec with agave syrup, this innovative recipe amplifies the bold flavor of tequila. The outcome is a revitalizing and refreshing drink ideal for hot summer days. For added depth, try experimenting with mezcal instead of tequila to infuse a smoky essence.
Once you take a sip of Tommy’s Margarita, you’ll be captivated by its unique charm.
Draco Agave
The Draco Agave cocktail, a Halloween-inspired tequila concoction, is a masterclass in flavor fusion. This spirited blend of blackberries, creme de cassis, jalapeno, and grapefruit soda creates a refreshing drink that’s sure to cast a spell on your taste buds. What sets this cocktail apart is its versatility – the traditional gin can be substituted with various clear spirits like tequila, agave, sotol, rhum agricole, cachaca, shochu, or vodka.
However, for maximum flavor impact, it’s best to stick with bright and clear spirits that won’t overpower the other ingredients. If you’re looking for a bewitching cocktail to serve at your Halloween gathering, look no further than the Draco Agave – it’s sure to be a hit!
Hibiscus and Pineapple Margarita With Blue Nectar Tequila
The Hibiscus and Pineapple Margarita with Blue Nectar Tequila is an ideal celebratory drink, particularly suited for Cinco de Mayo. The unique shrub ingredient, crafted from fresh pineapple, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and dried hibiscus flowers, brings a harmonious balance of sweet, tangy, and rich flavors to the table. This tropical margarita’s flavor profile is further elevated by the Blue Nectar Silver Tequila, which contributes a smooth, vibrant, and full-bodied character.
As a result, this cocktail offers an irresistible combination for those who crave fruity drinks with a hint of tequila. Overall, it’s an absolute must-try for anyone passionate about tropical cocktails.
Strawberry Margarita
Savoring the essence of summer, the Strawberry Margarita is an exemplary blend of sweet and tangy flavors. This revitalizing cocktail, crafted with fresh strawberries, reposado tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and agave nectar, strikes a perfect harmony of tastes. The natural sweetness provided by agave nectar sets it apart from artificially sweetened alternatives, making it a healthier choice for those seeking a refined drink experience.
The reposado tequila brings an unmistakable depth to the mix, infused with subtle notes of vanilla and a hint of smokiness from the barrel-aging process. Whether enjoyed on the rocks or frozen, this cocktail can be tailored to individual tastes by rimming it with either salt or sugar. For those who relish fruity and refreshing drinks, the Strawberry Margarita is an absolute must-try.
Grilled Mezcal Margaritas
Indulge in the bold flavors of the Grilled Mezcal Margarita, a captivating reimagining of the timeless margarita. This innovative cocktail masterfully balances sweet, tart, and smoky notes to create a rich and intriguing drinking experience. The honey syrup infuses the drink with a hint of warmth, while the grilled lemon juice contributes a tangy, savory flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the mezcal.
As a spirit similar to tequila but boasting a more pronounced smokiness, mezcal imbues this classic cocktail with a bold, fiery essence. Whether you’re seeking an exciting new drink to try or looking to impress your friends with a unique cocktail, the Grilled Mezcal Margarita is an absolute must-try.
Blood Orange Paloma
In the midst of winter citrus season, there’s nothing quite like sipping on a revitalizing Blood Orange Paloma cocktail that just so happens to be a healthier alternative to traditional sweetened drinks. By using agave nectar instead of refined sugar, this beverage offers a slightly sweeter take on the classic Paloma recipe. A medley of freshly squeezed grapefruit, lime, and blood orange juices combines for a richly complex flavor profile that’s both fruity and tantalizing.
The addition of top-shelf tequila and soda water masterfully balances the sweet and sour notes, while a sprinkle of coarse salt adds a delightful textural element to its presentation. If you’re a fan of tequila-based cocktails with a citrusy twist, the Blood Orange Paloma is an absolute must-try.
Spicy Paloma
Innovating on the classic Paloma formula, the Spicy Paloma brings together seemingly disparate flavors to create an intriguing and revitalizing drink. The harmony of tart grapefruit, subtle jalapeño spice, and fragrant basil notes yields a richly flavored concoction that’s sure to tantalize taste buds.
With Olmeca Altos Tequila providing a silky, citrus-infused backbone, this modern twist on the Paloma is an excellent choice for adventurous spirits seeking to shake up their agave-based drink repertoire.
Orange Crush
Crafted with precision, the Orange Crush is an invigorating blend of Olmeca Altos Añejo Tequila, orange liqueur, Aperol, orange bitters, and freshly squeezed orange juice. The harmonious union of these ingredients culminates in a drink that exudes citrusy freshness. The subtle tang of lime juice expertly counterbalances the sweetness, while the tequila’s complexity unfolds with each sip, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.
As the vibrant orange hue of the cocktail beckons, its bold and zesty flavors are sure to captivate those who crave the essence of oranges.
Mocha Mezcal Dessert Cocktail
For those seeking a sophisticated and unique winter cocktail, the Mocha Mezcal Dessert Cocktail is an ideal choice. By combining the smoky essence of mezcal with the richness of coffee liqueur and the sweetness of chocolate syrup, this concoction offers a complex flavor profile that will intrigue even the most discerning palates. The addition of coconut milk provides a creamy texture, while steamed soy or almond milk can be used to create a warmer version for those who prefer their drinks hot.
With its ease of preparation and adjustable smokiness level, this cocktail is a must-try for mezcal enthusiasts and anyone looking to add some excitement to their winter drink repertoire.
Paloma Cocktail
The Paloma Cocktail is a revitalizing concoction that’s simplicity itself. While traditional recipes typically incorporate grapefruit soda, this version elevates the game by combining freshly squeezed grapefruit juice with club soda, yielding a captivating pink hue and a zesty citrus flavor profile. The harmonious union of tequila and grapefruit creates a delightful and thirst-quenching drink that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
For those seeking a straightforward yet tantalizing cocktail experience, the Paloma Cocktail is an absolute must-try. So, go ahead and get mixing – your taste buds will thank you!
No Smokey Business
Pink Smoke
The Pink Smoke is an Agave cocktail that perfectly balances smokiness and refreshment. This unique concoction combines 1800 Silver Tequila with grapefruit juice and smoked rosemary, yielding a complex flavor profile that’s sure to delight. The rosemary adds a fragrant dimension, while the grapefruit provides a zesty citrus note. As the sun sets on a cool evening, the smokiness from the rosemary and tequila harmonizes to create an unparalleled drinking experience.
With its one-of-a-kind character, you won’t want to miss out on sipping this innovative cocktail.
Blue Margarita
A refreshing twist on the classic margarita, the Blue Margarita is a tequila-based cocktail that boasts a vibrant ocean blue hue that’s impossible to ignore. With just three essential ingredients – tequila, blue curacao, and lime juice – this revitalizing drink is a perfect blend of tangy and sweet.
The addition of agave syrup can further enhance its flavor profile, making it an excellent choice for a beach day or summer gathering where you want to impress your guests with a unique taste experience that’s both visually stunning and tantalizingly flavorful.
Tamarind Mezcal Mule
A masterclass in balance, the Tamarind Mezcal Mule harmoniously unites the smoldering intensity of mezcal with the tangy sweetness of tamarind syrup. A splash of ginger beer adds a lively kick, elevating this complex concoction into a refreshing and revitalizing sipper that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.
While mezcal can be a challenging spirit to tame, the Tamarind Mezcal Mule cleverly tames its smoky nature with a judicious blend of acidity and sweetness, yielding a delightfully well-rounded drink. As the perfect marriage of agave-based spirits, this innovative cocktail is an absolute must-experience for anyone seeking a bold and scrumptious beverage.
Watermelon Margarita
Imagine sipping on a refreshing and fruity Watermelon Margarita on a warm summer day. This revitalizing cocktail, made with the sweetness of agave nectar and the freshness of watermelon, offers a healthier alternative to pre-mixed margaritas. To balance out the drink’s natural tartness, crushed ice is used to dilute the flavor, while a squeeze of lime juice adds a tangy kick.
The type of tequila chosen can either elevate or diminish the overall taste, making it essential to select a high-quality one. With only 112 calories per serving, this Watermelon Margarita is a guilt-free pleasure that’s sure to impress your friends and family. And with its elegant garnish featuring a juicy watermelon wedge, this cocktail is the epitome of summer sophistication, leaving you craving another sip.
Cadillac Margarita
The Cadillac Margarita is a timeless classic that elevates the traditional margarita experience. By combining top-shelf tequila with fresh lime juice and Grand Marnier, this luxurious cocktail boasts a sophisticated flavor profile that’s both nuanced and complex, thanks in part to the use of reposado tequila. The addition of agave syrup adds a touch of subtle sweetness, while the Grand Marnier float creates a stunning golden hue.
When served ‘up’ in a signature margarita glass with a salted rim, this refined cocktail is sure to delight. Whether enjoyed alongside a Mexican-inspired meal or simply as a special treat, the Cadillac Margarita is guaranteed to impress.
Mez-Groni
Combining the timeless elegance of the classic Negroni with the bold, smoky essence of Los Siete Misterios Mezcal, the Mez-Groni offers an unforgettable drinking experience. For those who revel in the world of Agave spirits, this variation adds a rich layer of complexity, making it an absolute must-try for anyone seeking to elevate their cocktail adventure and discover new depths of flavor.
Peach and Jalapeno Margarita
Innovative twists on classic cocktails can often lead to truly unforgettable drinking experiences. Such is the case with the Peach and Jalapeno Margarita, a creation that boldly reimagines the traditional margarita. By incorporating homemade peach syrup and a hint of peach liqueur, this cocktail introduces a sweet and fruity dimension that beautifully complements its other flavors.
Meanwhile, the judicious addition of jalapeno pepper adds a subtle yet tantalizing spicy kick, carefully calibrated to harmonize with the other ingredients rather than overpower them. With the bartender’s expert guidance on using the jalapeno sparingly, this refreshing and flavorful cocktail is poised to delight anyone seeking a spirited experience that will leave them wanting more.
Passionfruit Tequila Beer Sour
The Passionfruit Tequila Beer Sour boasts a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors, courtesy of passionfruit, fresh lime, agave, and LCBO’s Villa One Blanco Tequila. The addition of Sidelaunch Passionfruit Sour Beer introduces a subtle bitterness and effervescence, elevating the drink to new heights. This cocktail transcends traditional beer-drinking boundaries, appealing to those who relish experimentation and innovation in the world of mixology.
A perfect balance of flavors, with hints of tequila and a refreshing finish, makes this drink an absolute delight for adventurous palates.
Rhubarb Strawberry Margaritas
Transforming the classic margarita into a refreshing treat, the Rhubarb Strawberry Margarita brings together the natural sweetness of rhubarb and strawberry in perfect harmony. This innovative cocktail celebrates the arrival of warmer weather with its unique blend of flavors. The recipe begins by crafting a sweet and tangy rhubarb strawberry ‘syrup’, which is then mixed with lime juice, silver tequila, and agave nectar to create a delightful concoction.
For added depth of flavor, serve this boozy drink over ice with a salted or sugared rim. Whether you’re looking for a fruity twist on happy hour or pairing it with Mexican cuisine, the Rhubarb Strawberry Margarita is an excellent choice.
Anejo Sidecar
For those who adore tequila, the Anejo Sidecar cocktail is a must-experience. This creative variation of the classic Sidecar replaces cognac with Anejo tequila, yielding a truly distinctive and tantalizing flavor profile. The aged tequila’s subtle smokiness harmonizes beautifully with the drink’s inherent sweetness, creating an unparalleled taste sensation.
Traditionally served in a coupe glass or a petite stemmed cocktail vessel, this refined concoction is ideal for upscale gatherings or special celebrations. Whether you’re seeking an impressive party drink or a sophisticated after-dinner treat, the Anejo Sidecar is sure to leave a lasting impression. Its unique charm makes it an absolute must-try Agave Cocktail.
The Red Pom Cocktail
For Valentine’s Day or Christmas celebrations, the Red Pom Cocktail offers an irresistible combination of visual appeal and flavorful goodness. This vibrant concoction boasts a stunning red hue, punctuated by the pop of pomegranate seeds, making it an ideal choice for festive gatherings. Beyond its captivating appearance, the drink also boasts a mouthwatering taste profile, born from the harmonious blend of fresh pomegranate, ruby red grapefruit juice, rum, crushed ice, and agave nectar.
This trifecta of flavors will undoubtedly render The Red Pom Cocktail a crowd-pleaser, satisfying even the most discerning palates.
Kiwi Caipirinha
The Kiwi Caipirinha brings a revitalizing spin to the traditional Brazilian cocktail. This delectable concoction harmoniously combines the tangy sweetness of kiwi and lime with the distinct flavor profile of cachaça, subtly enhanced by agave nectar. The muddled kiwi contributes a delightful textural element, while the lime juice infuses the drink with a lively zest.
Perfect for those seeking to venture beyond their usual cocktail routine, this Kiwi Caipirinha is an exciting and innovative addition to any repertoire.
Prickly Pear Margarita
Savoring the last days of summer? The Prickly Pear Margarita is an unforgettable way to bid adieu to the season. This Southwestern delight gets its striking pink hue from fresh prickly pears, adding a pop of color and a burst of flavor to every sip. With its ease of preparation and versatility in garnishes – think sugar cayenne rim and lime slice – this cocktail is sure to impress. While using fresh prickly pears yields the most vibrant results, pre-made syrup can be a convenient alternative.
As an agave-based drink, it’s a must-try for anyone seeking something new and tantalizing.
Agave Watermelon Lime Vodka-Tini
Imagine sipping on a vibrant and revitalizing Agave Watermelon Lime Vodka-Tini, transporting you straight into summer’s warmth. This delectable concoction is perfect for those seeking a sweet indulgence without the guilt trip. The watermelon’s impressive 90% water content makes it an unbeatable choice for quenching your thirst while keeping you mentally sharp.
The citrusy zing from the lime and the subtle sweetness of agave nectar expertly harmonize to create a delightful balance of flavors, leaving you wanting more. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who craves fruity drinks with a twist – it’s the perfect way to mix things up and experience something new.
Cherry Thyme Prosecco Smash
The Cherry Thyme Prosecco Smash is a delightful drink that embodies the essence of summer. By combining Prosecco, vodka, agave, and fresh cherries, this cocktail strikes the perfect chord between refreshing sweetness and subtle herbaceousness, courtesy of thyme. The end result is a visually appealing drink that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Whether you’re seeking a revitalizing beverage for a hot summer day or simply looking to shake up your cocktail repertoire, the Cherry Thyme Prosecco Smash is an absolute must-try.
Strawberry Basil Limeade
Beat the heat this summer with a revitalizing non-alcoholic cocktail that’s as sweet as it is tangy – the Strawberry Basil Limeade. This refined-sugar free treat combines the zesty zip of freshly squeezed lime juice, the subtle warmth of honey syrup, and the luscious flavors of strawberries and basil. The harmonious blend creates a refreshing taste experience that’s perfect for sizzling summer days.
And with a few simple tweaks or additions, you can customize this drink to your unique taste preferences. So why not give the Strawberry Basil Limeade a try and indulge in a delightful, revitalizing drink this summer? With its sweet and tangy charm, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
I’m Brandon, the face behind the recipes. As a dedicated food enthusiast, I love experimenting with flavors and sharing my culinary adventures with you.
