The 14 Best Mixers For Your Tequila, Ranked

14. Tomato juice

When most people associate tomato juice with alcohol, their minds often go to Bloody Marys. Traditional Bloody Mary recipes combine tomato juice and vodka, along with Tabasco and Worcestershire sauces. It seems logical that if tomato juice pairs well with vodka, it should also work with tequila, right?

Well, kind of. While mixing tomato juice and tequila results in a drink bursting with flavor, the savory tomato profile might not appeal to everyone looking for a relaxing nightcap. Without the tanginess and spice typical of a Bloody Mary, the tomato juice can overwhelm the sweet, smooth tequila. Instead, if you have the ingredients available, consider making the Bloody Mary’s fun alternative, the Bloody Maria. This variation replaces vodka with white tequila, and a splash of lime juice adds the perfect touch of acidity and citrus to balance the rich tomato flavor.

13. Dark soda

One of the most favored mixers for tequila is dark sodas such as Coca-Cola, Dr. Pepper, root beer, or their diet alternatives. A common guideline is to combine one part tequila with four parts soda. While silver tequila is often suggested, reposado tequila is also a good choice. Mixing tequila with cola isn't inherently bad, but it may not be the most exciting option. However, there are some health considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, many dark sodas contain caffeine. Although the caffeine content is usually not a major concern, combining alcohol and caffeine can pose risks for individuals with certain heart conditions. The CDC warns that this combination can result in elevated blood pressure and irregular heartbeats, so if you have heart issues, it might be wise to avoid this mix. Furthermore, using diet soda can lead to quicker intoxication since it lacks calories for your body to metabolize. Coupled with the fact that dark sodas often obscure the flavor of the tequila, you might find yourself becoming more intoxicated than you anticipated.

12. Ginger beer

Ginger beer is a popular mixer for various beverages, and its lower ranking on this list is mainly due to its polarizing nature. Despite its name, it has very little alcohol content, allowing it to be sold freely in grocery stores. It's important to note that ginger beer isn't as sweet as its relative, ginger ale. Instead, it boasts a bold ginger flavor that may not appeal to everyone.

If you enjoy this robust taste, ginger beer can be a fantastic mixer for tequila. You can also create a tequila twist on the classic Moscow mule, known as the Mexican mule. The simplest Mexican mule recipes consist of blanco tequila, ginger beer, and a splash of lime, but there are more intricate variations that incorporate simple syrup, triple sec, or jalapeño seeds for added depth. And don’t forget to serve it in a copper mug!

Another lesser-known tequila and ginger beer cocktail is the El Diablo. This drink combines ginger beer, tequila, lime juice, and crème de cassis, a black currant liqueur, which adds a fruity and spicy dimension to the cocktail.

11. Soda water

Soda water is a popular mixer for various spirits. It falls under the category of carbonated waters, which also includes club soda, sparkling water, and tonic water. The choice of which one to use in your cocktail ultimately comes down to personal taste, as each variety offers a distinct flavor. Soda water is enhanced with added minerals, making it a favorite among many.

If you appreciate the flavor of tequila but prefer not to drink it neat, soda water is an excellent choice that pairs well with any tequila variety. The carbonation introduces a refreshing effervescence that complements rather than overpowers the tequila's flavor. A good mix is one part tequila to three parts soda water. You can also incorporate a splash of juice, such as lime, orange, or grapefruit, or opt for a flavored soda water. However, if you prefer a cleaner taste, feel free to enjoy it plain.

10. Cream

Some individuals enjoy blending cream with alcohol, while others experience stomach discomfort from it. If you belong to the former group, combining cream and tequila is a delightful choice. Reposado tequila is ideal, as the cream enhances the tequila's sweetness and vanilla undertones, resulting in a concoction reminiscent of sipping melted boozy vanilla ice cream. Toss in a bit of chocolate or caramel, and you have a sundae in a glass.

While the combination of cream and tequila is surprisingly enjoyable on its own, these two ingredients can also be crafted into some fantastic cocktails. The leche Mexicana is a wonderful dessert cocktail featuring tequila, half-and-half, and crème de cacao. Another luxurious option is tequila cream, which consists of tequila, heavy cream, Kahlua, and simple syrup. For a truly indulgent dessert cocktail, consider the Irish cactus, which blends two parts Irish cream liqueur with one part tequila, making it the perfect nightcap.

9. Pomegranate juice

Pomegranates are a fruit brimming with seeds, boasting a sweet, tangy, and robust flavor often likened to cranberries. Their complex taste makes them an exceptional addition to beverages. When combined with tequila, the sweetness of both elements harmonizes beautifully, while the tartness of the pomegranate prevents the drink from becoming overly sweet. The result is a refreshingly fruity concoction. Additionally, pomegranates are packed with nutrients such as vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium, making them a healthy choice.

You can also create some exciting cocktails using pomegranate and tequila. A classic cosmopolitan typically features vodka, cranberry juice, triple sec, and lime juice, but with a few tweaks, you can craft a pomegranate tequila cosmo. Just replace the vodka with blanco tequila and the cranberry juice with pomegranate juice, then shake it all together. Another delightful option is a pomegranate margarita, which combines tequila, pomegranate juice, lime juice, and agave nectar.

8. Coconut water

The transparent liquid found inside coconuts is known as coconut water. It has a mild flavor that is slightly sweet and nutty, though the taste can differ among brands. This flavor profile complements tequila wonderfully, enhancing its sweetness and harmonizing with its occasionally citrus notes without overpowering it. Additionally, coconut water is rich in electrolytes, making it an excellent choice for staying hydrated, especially after consuming alcohol.

When enjoyed separately, tequila and coconut water create a refreshing, tropical beverage; simply mix two parts tequila with three parts coconut water. For an extra citrus kick, consider adding some lime. If you're in the mood for a cocktail, a coconut margarita is a fantastic option. This drink combines coconut water and tequila with fresh lime juice, triple sec, and cream of coconut, along with the essential salt and lime wedges for the ultimate margarita experience.

7. Lemon-lime soda

Lemon-lime soda, such as Sprite, 7-Up, or Sierra Mist (now known as Starry), is a timeless mixer for various alcoholic beverages, including tequila. This soda introduces a fizzy sparkle to tequila, along with a sweet and citrusy flavor that complements the natural sweetness and citrus notes of the spirit. The inclusion of lime is especially beneficial, as it is an essential ingredient in any tequila cocktail. Consequently, nearly all types of tequila pair well with lemon-lime soda, with silver tequila being a standout choice.

Tequila and lemon-lime soda make a delightful combination on their own; simply use double the amount of soda compared to tequila. Additionally, Sprite or other lemon-lime sodas can be used to lighten and sweeten classic margaritas. For a refreshing summer drink, consider trying a tequila fizz, which combines tequila, orange juice, lime juice, simple syrup, and your preferred lemon-lime soda.

6. Apple cider

Autumn enthusiasts understand that, apart from pumpkin spice, the quintessential drink that heralds the arrival of fall is apple cider. Unlike apple juice, apple cider is crafted from fresh apples and remains unfiltered. While you can find pure apple cider, many varieties available in stores during the fall season are enhanced with spices such as cinnamon and ginger. Combining reposado tequila with apple cider creates a warm, spiced flavor that is milder than that of ginger beer. The vanilla and citrus notes often found in tequila harmonize beautifully with the cider's flavors.

If you're looking to elevate your drink experience, consider making apple cider margaritas. Along with tequila and apple cider, you'll need lime juice, triple sec, and cinnamon sugar. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and an apple slice for a delightful beverage, perfect for your next harvest gathering or a relaxing evening after a visit to the apple orchard.

5. Ginger ale

Ginger ale is a refreshing ginger-infused beverage that complements tequila beautifully. The key distinction between ginger ale and ginger beer lies in their preparation: ginger ale is made from carbonated water infused with ginger extract and sugar, whereas ginger beer undergoes fermentation with ginger, resulting in a bolder flavor. Consequently, ginger ale is generally more palatable for a broader audience and serves as an excellent mixer for highballs and other straightforward cocktails.

When you combine ginger ale with tequila, you create a delightful, sweet concoction. The mild flavor of ginger ale allows the tequila to shine, while the sweetness and fizz enhance the overall experience. Ginger ale pairs nicely with both sweet vodkas and those with a more pronounced citrus profile, complementing the vibrant notes. For a simple tequila and ginger ale cocktail, aim to use approximately twice the amount of ginger ale as tequila. A splash of lime juice and lemonade, along with a salted rim on your glass, will transform your drink into a tranquil seas cocktail.

4. Grapefruit soda or juice

Grapefruit soda, such as Squirt, is a refreshing citrus beverage with a distinct grapefruit flavor. On the other hand, grapefruit juice is the liquid extracted from grapefruits. Both beverages are delightful and complement tequila beautifully. Grapefruit soda offers a lighter, sweeter profile, and when combined with tequila, it results in a bubbly, refreshing drink that balances sweetness and a hint of sourness. In contrast, grapefruit juice delivers a more robust grapefruit taste, typically less sweet and more tart. When mixed with tequila, it creates a drink with a bolder flavor while still maintaining a sweet and sour essence.

Both grapefruit soda and juice can be used to craft a Paloma, an ideal tequila cocktail for those looking to switch things up from margaritas. A traditional Paloma recipe includes silver tequila, grapefruit juice, soda water, and occasionally simple syrup. However, many prefer to streamline the process by replacing the grapefruit juice and soda water with grapefruit soda. Both variations are equally delightful and make for the perfect summer drink by the pool.

3. Lemonade

Lemonade is the ideal beverage for summer; mix in some tequila, and you have a delightful drink for unwinding on the back porch, at the beach, or by the pool. Since lemonade is crafted from lemon juice and sugar, it complements the zesty flavor of silver tequila or the sweeter notes of reposado tequila beautifully. Depending on the type of tequila you choose, your drink will strike a balance between tart and sweet, with the exact levels of each varying.

For a revitalizing summer cocktail, combine three parts lemonade with one part silver tequila. You can also opt for flavored lemonade to add a fruity twist; options like strawberry, raspberry, and classic pink lemonade are readily available in stores. Tequila lemonade is incredibly simple to prepare and looks lovely in a glass, making it perfect for barbecues or bridal showers. In fact, you can prepare a large batch, serve it in a punch bowl, and garnish with lemon slices to create an unforgettable experience for your guests.

2. Pineapple juice

Pineapple juice is celebrated for its citrusy flavor, slight tartness, and pronounced sweetness, making it an ideal mixer for those who enjoy a sugary taste. Its citrus notes blend beautifully with silver tequila, resulting in a refreshing drink that embodies the essence of summer.

While tequila and pineapple juice are delightful on their own, they also serve as a foundation for a variety of fantastic cocktails. A classic tequila pineapple cocktail can be enhanced with a splash of orange liqueur, while a vibrant tequila pineapple punch elevates the taste with coconut rum and lemon juice. For a unique twist, try a Tandoori tequila cocktail, which combines tequila, pineapple juice, lime juice, simple syrup, and curry leaves, perfect for pairing with your next Indian meal. Alternatively, the Caupona tequila cocktail features tequila, pineapple juice, lime juice, cayenne pepper, and a slice of green apple, making it a great way to bid farewell to summer. Additionally, pineapple juice can substitute orange juice in sweeter cocktails like a tequila screwdriver or tequila sunrise.

1. Orange juice

Orange juice doesn't have the same level of sweetness as pineapple juice. While it does have a hint of sweetness, its citrusy and tart flavors are more pronounced. This complements the natural sweetness and citrus notes in tequila, resulting in a drink that balances sweetness and tartness.

Traditional screwdriver cocktails are made with vodka and orange juice, but if you replace the vodka with tequila, you get a sweeter version known as a tequila screwdriver. Vodka and orange juice also form the foundation of the tequila fizz, as previously mentioned, and are key ingredients in one of the most beloved tequila cocktails (after the margarita, of course): the tequila sunrise. A tequila sunrise embodies the essence of summer, combining tequila, orange juice, and grenadine. The grenadine settles at the bottom, creating that stunning sunrise effect. You can also enhance margaritas with a splash of orange juice or craft a sunny orange margarita using tequila, orange juice, triple sec, and lime juice.

How I ranked the best tequila mixers

Honestly, determining the top tequila mixers was quite a challenge due to the various types of tequila, with certain mixers complementing specific types better than others. However, since silver tequila is the most widely used, I focused my taste tests on that variety.

As a result, some of this ranking reflects my personal views, but I also explored online sources for additional insights. I considered the mixers that received the most attention, those frequently featured in cocktails, and incorporated a bit of my own experiences to compile this list of the best tequila mixers.