5 Tequila Cocktails You Need to Know

Tequila has come a long way from its reputation as a party shot. Today, it’s one of the most versatile and respected spirits behind the bar, prized for its bright agave character, complexity, and ability to shine in both simple and sophisticated cocktails. For home bartenders looking to expand their skills, mastering a few classic tequila drinks is a great place to start. Here are the top five tequila cocktails every home bartender should know how to make—along with the recipes to craft them perfectly at home.

The Margarita

No list of tequila cocktails would be complete without the Margarita. Simple, refreshing, and endlessly adaptable, this drink is the gold standard of tequila cocktails. The classic version balances tart, sweet, and agave-forward flavors beautifully.

• 2 oz blanco tequila

• 1 oz fresh lime juice

• ¾ oz orange liqueur (Cointreau or triple sec)

Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice and shake well. Strain into a salt-rimmed glass over fresh ice (or serve up in a chilled coupe). Once you’ve mastered the classic, experiment with spicy jalapeño, grapefruit, or frozen variations.

The Paloma

If the Margarita is the queen of tequila cocktails, the Paloma is her effortlessly cool counterpart. Light, crisp, and refreshing, it’s especially popular in Mexico and perfect for warm weather.

• 2 oz blanco tequila

• 3 oz fresh grapefruit juice (or grapefruit soda)

• ½ oz fresh lime juice

• Pinch of salt (optional)

Build over ice in a highball glass and stir gently. If using grapefruit soda, add tequila and lime first, then top with soda. Garnish with a grapefruit or lime wedge.

Tequila Sunrise

The Tequila Sunrise is as visually stunning as it is delicious, with its signature gradient of orange and red. It’s sweet, fruity, and easy-drinking—ideal for brunch or relaxed gatherings.

• 2 oz blanco tequila

• 4 oz fresh orange juice

• ½ oz grenadine

Fill a glass with ice, add tequila and orange juice, and stir gently. Slowly pour grenadine down the side of the glass so it settles at the bottom. Garnish with an orange slice and cherry.

Tommy’s Margarita

A modern classic, the Tommy’s Margarita removes orange liqueur and instead uses agave nectar, allowing the tequila’s natural character to shine. It’s cleaner, more agave-forward, and beloved in craft cocktail circles.

• 2 oz blanco tequila

• 1 oz fresh lime juice

• ¾ oz agave nectar

Shake with ice and strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass. Garnish with a lime wheel.

Tequila Old Fashioned

For those who love spirit-forward drinks, the Tequila Old Fashioned is a must-try. Using reposado or añejo tequila gives the cocktail depth, oak, and subtle vanilla notes.

• 2 oz reposado or añejo tequila

• ½ oz agave syrup (1:1 agave + water)

• 2 dashes aromatic bitters

Add ingredients to a mixing glass with ice and stir until well chilled. Strain over a large ice cube in a rocks glass and garnish with an orange twist.

Final Thoughts

Learning these five cocktails gives any home bartender a strong foundation in tequila mixology. From bright and citrusy to rich and spirit-forward, these drinks showcase the full range of what tequila can do. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, mastering these classics will make you more confident, creative, and capable behind the bar.