Tequila isn’t just for shots—it’s one of the most versatile and flavorful spirits for crafting exceptional cocktails. Be it refreshing citrusy drinks, spicy kickers, or bold, spirit-forward creations, tequila brings depth and character to every sip.
But not all tequilas are created equal. Using award-winning tequila ensures a smooth, well-balanced cocktail without the overpowering alcohol burn. To make your weekend more exciting, here are five incredible tequila cocktails, each featuring a top-rated, award-winning tequila from around the world.
5 Must-Try Tequila Cocktails
Classic Margarita – Featuring El Padrino Tequila Blanco
This premium Blanco tequila is smooth, crisp, and agave-forward, making it the perfect base for a zesty, refreshing Margarita.
Ingredients:
✔️ 45ml El Padrino Tequila Blanco
✔️ 15ml fresh lime juice
✔️ 15ml Triple Sec or Cointreau
✔️ 10ml agave syrup (optional)
✔️ Ice cubes
✔️ Salt for the rim
✔️ Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions:
1️⃣ Rim the glass with lime juice and coat it with coarse salt.
2️⃣ In a shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, orange liqueur, and ice.
3️⃣ Shake well and strain into an ice-filled glass.
4️⃣ Garnish with a lime wedge.
Pro Tip: For a fruitier twist, add fresh strawberry or mango puree!
Paloma – Featuring El Cristiano 1761 Clase Reposado Tequila
This lightly aged Reposado tequila adds a subtle caramel and oak note that pairs beautifully with tart grapefruit soda.
Ingredients:
✔️ 60ml El Cristiano 1761 Clase Reposado Tequila
✔️ 120ml grapefruit soda (Sepoy & Co)
✔️ 15ml fresh lime juice
✔️ Ice cubes
✔️ Salt for the rim (optional)
✔️ Grapefruit wedge for garnish
Instructions:
1️⃣ Fill a glass with ice and add tequila and lime juice.
2️⃣ Top with grapefruit soda and stir gently.
3️⃣ Garnish with a grapefruit wedge.
Pro Tip: Add a splash of club soda for extra fizz!
Tequila Old Fashioned – Featuring 1800 Milenio Extra-Aged Tequila
This Extra-Añejo tequila offers deep notes of oak, caramel, and vanilla, making it the perfect substitute for whisky in this spirit-forward classic.
Ingredients:
✔️ 60ml 1800 Milenio Extra-Aged Tequila
✔️ 10ml agave syrup
✔️ 2 dashes Angostura bitters
✔️ Large ice cube
✔️ Orange peel for garnish
Instructions:
1️⃣ In a mixing glass, combine tequila, agave syrup, and bitters.
2️⃣ Add ice and stir until well-chilled.
3️⃣ Strain into a glass over a large ice cube.
4️⃣ Express an orange peel over the drink and drop it in.
Pro Tip: For a smokier profile, add a splash of mezcal.
Spicy Mexican Mule – Featuring Maya Pistola Agavepura Reposado Tequila
The slightly aged character of this Reposado tequila blends beautifully with zesty lime and spicy ginger beer for a bold, refreshing drink.
Ingredients:
✔️ 60ml Maya Pistola Agavepura Reposado Tequila
✔️ 120ml ginger beer
✔️ 15ml fresh lime juice
✔️ 2 jalapeño slices (optional)
✔️ Ice cubes
✔️ Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions:
1️⃣ Muddle jalapeño slices in a glass.
2️⃣ Add ice, tequila, and lime juice.
3️⃣ Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
4️⃣ Garnish with a lime wedge.
Pro Tip: Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños!
Tequila Sunrise – Featuring El Padrino Reposado Tequila
The smooth, slightly aged Reposado tequila creates a beautifully layered cocktail with citrus and pomegranate flavors.
Ingredients:
✔️ 60ml El Padrino Reposado Tequila
✔️ 120ml orange juice
✔️ 15ml grenadine
✔️ Ice cubes
✔️ Orange slice and cherry for garnish
Instructions:
1️⃣ Fill a glass with ice and add tequila and orange juice.
2️⃣ Slowly pour grenadine so it settles at the bottom.
3️⃣ Garnish with an orange slice and cherry.
Pro Tip: Stir before drinking to blend the flavors!
Tips for Making the Perfect Tequila Cocktails
✔️ Use fresh ingredients – Fresh lime juice and real fruit make a huge difference.
✔️ Pick the right tequila – Blanco for crispness, Reposado for richness, Añejo for depth.
✔️ Don’t overdo the sugar – Agave syrup is a better alternative to artificial sweeteners.
✔️ Experiment with flavors – Herbs, spices, and tropical fruits can take your cocktail to the next level!
Whether you love citrusy classics, bold spice, or rich aged tequila creations, these award-winning tequila-based cocktails will elevate your drinking experience.
Click here to explore the world of award-winning spirits and check out the winners list of the India Wines And Spirits Award 2025.
