An Overview of Tequila Alternatives

Imagine a zero-alcohol drink that has the aroma and taste of tequila. 

A golden hue greets you upon pouring, while a traditional blue agave aroma and ripe tropical guava follow suit. Earthy mesquite smoke, clean spice, and a kiss of sea salt complete the experience. 

Agave

The agave plant, or maguey, is a succulent from the Asparagaceae family native to the arid regions of Mexico and the Caribbean. It has been used for centuries by indigenous people for food, fiber, and medicine, including the boiled sweetener known as agave nectar. Its stem is incredibly dense in carbohydrates immediately before flowering and is harvested to produce tequila and mezcal alcohol.

As tequila recovers from its reputation as the spirit of bad decisions and blacked-out college years, its sister mezcal is sashaying onto craft cocktail menus. In addition, a growing number of bars and restaurants are stocking shelves with tequila alternatives like bacanora and pulque.

In cocktails, tequila alternatives pair well with citrusy, tropical flavors such as cilantro lime and tropical guava. They also work with savory tomato juices in margaritas and palomas. And they add a smoky, herbal, earthy element to drinks with agave syrup or honey.

In addition to a lower glycemic index than table sugar, agave syrup has a high level of beneficial fats that can help boost metabolism and lower cholesterol levels. It also contains minerals like potassium, selenium, and folate. Unlike fructose, which many people can’t properly digest, agave syrup is digested by the body and converted to energy without raising blood glucose or insulin levels. That makes it a healthier alternative to white sugar and other liquid sweeteners.

Aesthetics

With golden color, these non-alcoholic spirits look most like a reposado tequila. It smells smoky, like mezcal or charred wood, and it tastes sweet with a spicy finish. It blends well in drinks with spice, especially margaritas. It also works in mules and sour mix drinks.

It has a low alcohol content of less than 0.5%, making it suitable for many people. However, it does contain a small amount of sugar, so you should be careful when adding it to a diet. In addition, it contains glycerol and citric acid for natural flavors and sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate as preservatives.

Add a tequila alternative to a glass of tonic water for an impressive mocktail, and garnish with a jalapeno slice and basil. Allow the jalapeno to soak for 15 minutes to make it spicier. The result is a refreshing drink that you can enjoy all year round.

Mezcal

Mezcal is a spirit with a unique flavor with much to offer to drinkers. Its savory and potent flavor has made it a popular alternative to tequila in cocktails and on the rocks. It is also one of the lowest-calorie liquors when served straight without mixers. This may help those looking to limit their sugar intake while still enjoying a spirit with a bit of a buzz.

Mezcals can be enjoyed alone or with a variety of mixers and foods. Its earthy, smokey flavor pairs well with citrus, fruits, and other foods. It can even be mixed with ice to make margaritas or juleps. A splash of honey or lime can also enhance its smoky undertones.

A mezcal’s flavor is influenced by the type of agave used to make it and the distillation and cooking processes. Some mezcals are aged in barrels, creating a more complex and nuanced spirit.

Mezcals are becoming increasingly popular in the US thanks to a growing interest in artisanal spirits. Several mezcal brands have emerged in the past decade. These mezcals are sourced from families operating their palenquero (distillery). The founders of these mezcal brands understand sustainability. They have incorporated youth into their businesses and have combined knowledge of the North American market with traditional mezcal production practices.

Taste

Unlike most spirits, tequila doesn’t spike blood sugar levels, making it one of the healthiest alcohol options you can drink. It also contains agavins, which are non-digestible sugars that provide an excellent source of dietary fiber. This helps your body burn calories and lower cholesterol.

Tequila has also been shown to have prebiotic and probiotic properties. It detoxifies the skin and reduces bloating. It is also a natural astringent that removes oil and cleans pores. In addition, it has a high amount of potassium and calcium, which help balance blood pressure and prevent strokes.

The agave plant has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. It can help treat inflammatory conditions such as Crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome. It can also improve bone strength and prevent osteoporosis. It also promotes fat metabolism and boosts energy.

The tequila alternative has a delicious taste reminiscent of real tequila. It smells fresh and has a subtle agave aroma, making it the perfect ingredient for cocktails. It’s also calorie-free and contains no artificial colors or flavors. You can mix it with various ingredients to create the best non-alcoholic margarita. You can even use it to make other non-alcoholic cocktails, such as a mojito. Try pairing it with lime and orange juices for a more authentic taste.

Delicious Summer Cocktails and Mocktails for Entertaining

Summer is the perfect season for entertaining friends and family outdoors, and what better way to do it than with some delicious and refreshing cocktails and mocktails. Whether you are hosting a backyard barbecue or a pool party, these recipes are sure to impress your guests and keep them cool and hydrated during those hot summer days. 

Classic Margarita

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Tequila
• 1 oz. Lime Juice
• 1 oz. Simple Syrup
• Salt for the rim

Instructions:

1. Rub the rim of a rocks glass with a lime wedge, then dip it into a plate of salt.
2. Fill the glass with ice.
3. In a shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup with ice.
4. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds, then strain into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy!                                                                                                
   

Watermelon Agua Fresca

Ingredients:

• 4 cups chopped seedless watermelon
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 limes, juiced

Instructions:

1. Combine watermelon, water, and honey in a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Add lime juice and blend again.
3. Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher.
4. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with a slice of watermelon.

Pineapple Coconut Mojito

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup pineapple chunks
• 1 tbsp. coconut cream
• 1 tbsp. honey
• 1/2 lime, juiced
• 1 1/2 oz. rum
• Club soda

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle together mint leaves, pineapple, coconut cream, honey, and lime juice.
2. Add rum and ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda and garnish with a sprig of mint and a slice of pineapple.                                   
   

Strawberry Lemonade Mocktail

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cups cold water
• Lemon slices and strawberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, puree strawberries, lemon juice, and honey until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher.
3. Add cold water and stir well.
4. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices and strawberries.

Peach Bellini

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe peach, peeled and pitted
• 1 tbsp. honey
• 1/2 bottle Prosecco

Instructions:

1. Puree peach and honey in a blender until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a champagne flute.
3. Top with Prosecco and stir gently.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

These summer cocktail and mocktail recipes are perfect for entertaining guests and cooling off during hot summer days. Try them out and get creative with your own ingredients and flavors to make your signature drinks that everyone will love. Cheers to a fun and refreshing summer!

Cocktail and Mocktail Recipes for Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is a special occasion to celebrate love and romance, and what better way to do that than with a delicious cocktail or mocktail? Whether you're planning a romantic dinner for two at home or hosting a party with friends, these easy Valentine's Day cocktail and mocktail recipes are sure to impress. 

Cocktail: Raspberry Rose Martini

Ingredients:

1 1/2 oz raspberry vodka

1 oz rose liqueur

1/2 oz lime juice

1/4 oz simple syrup

3 raspberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, combine the raspberry vodka, rose liqueur, lime juice, and simple syrup.

2. Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass.

3. Garnish with 3 raspberries on a toothpick.

Mocktail: Strawberry Basil Fizz

Ingredients:

1/2 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered

3 basil leaves

1/4 cup fresh lime juice

1/4 cup simple syrup

1 cup club soda

1/2 cup ice

additional basil leaves and strawberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, puree the strawberries, basil leaves, lime juice, and simple syrup until smooth.

2. In a glass, add the puree and club soda. Stir until well combined.

3. Add ice and garnish with additional basil leaves and strawberries.

Cocktail: Chocolate Covered Cherry Martini

Ingredients:

1 1/2 oz vanilla vodka

1 oz cherry liqueur

1/2 oz chocolate liqueur

1/2 oz heavy cream

1/4 oz simple syrup

Chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, combine the vanilla vodka, cherry liqueur, chocolate liqueur, heavy cream, and simple syrup.

2. Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass.

3. Garnish with chocolate shavings. 

Mocktail: Pink Lemonade Spritz

Ingredients:

1/2 cup fresh raspberries

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup simple syrup

1 cup sparkling water

1/2 cup ice

additional raspberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, puree the raspberries, lemon juice, and simple syrup until smooth.

2. In a glass, add the puree and sparkling water. Stir until well combined.

3. Add ice and garnish with additional raspberries.

These cocktails and mocktails are easy to make and are sure to be a hit on Valentine's Day. They are perfect for a romantic dinner for two or for a party with friends. So, whether you prefer a cocktail or a mocktail, you're sure to find something you'll love in this list.

Thanksgiving Cocktail Recipes from The Mixer

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to spend quality time with your loved ones, enjoying tasty food and family traditions. When you’ve gone to the trouble of cooking up a feast, you’ll want delicious drinks to match. 

The best thanksgiving cocktails are easy to serve when hosting a crowd. The kitchen gets busy, so choose drinks that suit your time frame. Also, serve cocktails that pair well with your Thanksgiving menu. Here is our ultimate pick of incredible drinks to serve this holiday season without going into a complete tailspin on Turkey Day!

Kir Royale

This French Champagne cocktail (aka Kir Royale) is a New York City favorite and an incredibly simple cocktail to master. You’ll wonder why you’ve waited all this time to try one! 

Ingredients (per person)

• 0.5 Oz blackcurrant liqueur

• 6 Oz Champagne

Method

1. Pour creme de cassis in a champagne glass

2. Top with Champagne and serve!

Apple Butter Old Fashioned

An Apple Butter Old Fashioned cocktail is packed with the inviting flavors of warm apple pie. Made with real apple butter (just like mama used to make), this fall Old Fashioned drink is perfect as an indulgent drink with your bourbon-loving friends. For this recipe, you’ll be making your own apple butter. Don’t worry, it’s super simple to make because YOLO! And it’s downright delicious. If you have leftovers, you can add it to cheese platters, use it as a glaze for that roast beef dinner or dollop it onto pancakes. Yum!

Hot tip: “Contrary to what the name suggests, apple butter does not contain any butter. It’s basically just a fancy name for apples that have been pureed, spiced and cooked down to give them a butter-like texture. It is easy to make and store in your fridge. Use it in cocktails, to spread on toast, as a glaze on meat or add it to your morning oats.” (Helena Lombard, The Mixer)

Ingredients (per person)

• 0.5 Oz of Apple cider 

• 0.5 Oz of Wild Turkey Bourbon

• 2 tablespoon of apple butter 

• Dash of orange bitters 

• Juice of half a lemon 

• Ginger beer (to top your glass) 

• Coarse cinnamon sugar and simple syrup, for rimming 

• Thinly sliced apples and a cinnamon stick, to garnish

 

Instructions

1. Pour some simple syrup on a plate and some coarse cinnamon sugar on another

2. Dip the rim of your cocktail glass into the syrup and then into the sugar, twisting to coat, before adding ice cubes to the glass 

3. Combine the apple cider, apple butter, Wild Turkey, lemon juice and bitters in a cocktail shaker and give it a dry shake (in other words, a shake without ice) 

4. Shake vigorously until properly combined then strain into your prepared cocktail glass

5. Top up with ginger beer and garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slice on the rim to serve

Hot Toddy

Looking for warming thanksgiving drinks that are easy to make? A Hot Toddy is an ideal drink as you can let the crockpot do all the work - another thing you can tick off the to-do list!

Ingredients (per person)

• 2 Oz Wild Turkey Bourbon Whiskey

• 0.25 Oz Fresh lemon juice

• 2 Teaspoons brown sugar

• 5 Cloves

• Sliced lemon

• Boiling water  

Method

1. Take a slice of lemon, press the cloves into the lemon round and set aside 

2. Boil water and fill a mug to the three-quarter mark

3. Pour in the whiskey and lemon juice and stir in the sugar until dissolved

4. Add the clove-studded lemon wheel and allow to infuse

5. Serve in a warmed mug

Mexican Coffee Cocktail

Also known as a Carajillo, this is a classic coffee cocktail that you can make with just a few ingredients. The tequila gives this coffee a decent kick, and the coffee liqueur balances out the flavor and adds sweetness.  

Ingredients (per person)

• 1.5 Oz Espolòn Tequila Reposado

• 1 Oz coffee liqueur

• 5 Oz freshly brewed coffee

• 2 tablespoons whipping cream (optional)

• a dusting of cocoa powder, cinnamon or cayenne pepper (optional)

Method

1. Pour the tequila and coffee liqueur into a mug

2. Top up with freshly brewed coffee

3. Garnish with whipped cream and dusting of your choice, if you want

Bourbon Apple Cider

This spiced cocktail is exactly what you need to warm up your guests on a cold night. This is a full-flavor cocktail, and the sourness of the lemon balances beautifully with the sweet notes of caramel, vanilla and apple.

Ingredients (per person)

• 0.5 Oz of Wild Turkey Bourbon Whiskey 

• 0.5 Oz of apple cider 

• 0.5 Oz of Cinzano Vermouth Rosso 

• 0.5 Oz of lemon juice 

• 0.5 Oz of orange bitters 

• Apple slices to garnish 

• A sprig of thyme to garnish 

• Ice

 

Method

1. Add ice to a large mixing glass or cocktail shaker

2. Pour in the bourbon, cider, sweet vermouth, lemon juice and bitters

3. Stir until chilled (about 30 seconds)

4. Strain into any cocktail glass of your choice

5. Garnish with a few apple slices and a sprig of thyme

 

Hot Pumpkin Pie Cocktail

If you love the taste of a pumpkin spice latte, then choose this cocktail as the star of your Thanksgiving feast this year. Serve your Hot Pumpkin Pie cocktails in warmed mugs, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkling of cinnamon. As an extra treat, you can serve baked pumpkin pie crusts on the side for some decadent dipping.

Hot tip: “Make pumpkin-infused vodka by mixing together pumpkin puree and spice, with ½ cup of vodka in a large jar. Seal and keep in the fridge for three days before using, shaking it a few times a day.” (Helena Lombard, The Mixer)

Ingredients (for 6 people)

• 2 cups of Irish cream 

• ½ a cup vanilla or pumpkin pie vodka 

• 4 cups of milk 

• 0.67

• 1 can of pumpkin puree 

• 1.5 teaspoons of pumpkin spice 

• Whipped cream 

• Cinnamon 

• Strips of baked pumpkin pie crust to garnish, optional

 

Method

1. Add the Irish cream, vodka, and milk to a pot  

2. Bring to the boil, then turn down the heat to a slow simmer

3. Stir through pumpkin puree and spices until mixed through 

4. Ladle into warmed glass mugs

5. Dollop over some whipped cream

6. Dust with cinnamon

7. Serve with baked pumpkin pie crusts for dipping

 

Visit www.themixer.com for more cocktail inspiration.

What Are the Different Types of Tequila Available?

Anyone who has tasted tequila can testify to its unique and exciting taste. It is a distilled drink that is produced from fermented blue agave plants. It originates from Mexico and has become a worldwide phenomenon. It is popularly consumed more in Mexico and the United States.

It is a unique liquor and can only be produced in certain regions of Mexico. These cities include Tequila, Jalisco, Nayarit, Guanajuato, Michoacán and Tamaulipas. Those produced elsewhere do not qualify to be regarded as such.

Tequila can be consumed in a variety of ways. This can be straight or neat without adding anything but taken as a shot. Some shots are taken with lime and salt. This is because the salt lessens its burn in the mouth and throat while the lime enhances its flavor.

Some people prefer to enjoy theirs by swirling it around a glass, taking in its aroma and then sipping it. A final way it can be consumed is by adding it as an ingredient in other drinks such as margaritas. You can check out this and more in this article.

Types of Tequila Drinks

Although tequila may be made from the same plant and the same region, they do not all taste the same. They are of different types and each one tastes differently from the others. Here are the five main types available.

Blanco

Blanco has several aliases. It can be referred to as Silver, White, Platinum, or Plata. It is the youngest tequila type and it is made from 100% pure blue Weber agave. Typically, it is freshly distilled and aged for only a few weeks which makes it sweet.

Because Blanco does not spend time in aging, it remains clear and silverish. Some distillers may age it for up to two months for a smoother taste. Blanco is also one of the best for making margaritas.

Joven

Joven is a Spanish word that means “young”. This drink is most times a mixto. A mixto means it is a blend of other drinks often Reposado, Anejo and Silver and other additives. It is golden in color and known by different monikers like Gold, Oro, or Dorado.

Joven gets its color from additives and flavoring agents such as caramel coloring and grain alcohol. If you find a Blanco bottle named Joven, it means is a mixto of some aged tequila with an unaged one.

Reposado

Have you like many asked what is a Reposado? Just so you know, it is a Spanish word that means “rested”. This name is in reference to this drink being aged in wood casks from between two months to one year. A lot of distilleries often age their Reposado in bourbon barrels. This adds bourbon flavors to the final product.

The process of aging Reposado adds some natural golden color and subtle hints of flavors like nuts, coffee and vanilla. This tequila can be enjoyed straight or used in cocktails. It makes margaritas more dynamic and full of flavors. 

Anejo

Anejo means aged. It is a drink that is aged for at least a year or more in oak barrels. What this does is that it loses its agave characteristics, turns amber and takes on the flavor of the barrel. It also results in a rich and smooth drink with hints of caramel and butterscotch.

Anejo can be likened to when tequila has been made to grow and lose its innocence. It is delicious and can be used as a whiskey substitute. The best way to enjoy it is neat or neat with water.

Extra Anejo

These are ultra-aged tequilas. They have been aged for a minimum of three years and are darker. It is mahogany in color with a complex and smooth flavor. They are usually best sipped alone instead of using it as a mix for other drinks.

Which Tequila Type is The Best?

This is based solely on what you prefer and whatever you intend to use it for. It is best to use either a Blanco or a Reposado for making margaritas. Anejo and Extra Anejo may also be used only that they would give your drink a caramel and oaky flavor.

Also, bear in mind that the more it is aged, the more expensive it becomes. This means Anejo and Extra Anejo are generally more expensive than the rest. You can checkout the guide to buying tequila here https://www.simplyrecipes.com/what_tequila_should_you_buy to learn more.

Conclusion

Tequila is one of the best liquors that you can drink. Like most drinks, it is available in different variants based on the age of the drink. The best type to choose is dependent on the drinker but the aged ones seem to taste better.

Give The Gift Of Khortytsa Vodka This Holiday Season

The holiday season is quickly approaching and will be here and gone before you know it. It's time to start making those gift lists for family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers. One of my favorite gifts to give to my over-21 friends is the 'gift of spirits'. Vodka is one of the most popular adult beverages that is the base of many of the cocktails we love. Whether it's a martini, mule, or in a Long Island iced tea, you have to start with the good stuff.

I was introduced to brand I have never heard of or tried recently. Ukraine’s famed Khortytsa (KHOR) Vodka is the world’s third-largest vodka brand and is now widely available in the American market. They offer a few different varieties and I received a cute gift pack with a bottle each of the Platinum and Pepper Honey Hot varieties.

The packaging makes this an excellent choice for easy gift-giving. You can simply add a bow or put it in a decorative bag, and you're done! If you want to make it a bigger gift, you can include items for mixing such as cranberry juice, tomato juice, a jar of olives, or a nice glass for serving.

My favorite way to enjoy Khortytsa Platinum vodka is shaken with either 100% cranberry or pomegranate juice, garnished with an orange slice. It is super smooth and kind of 'hits you' after the fact. Any vodka lover would enjoy the sophisticated and smooth taste. I am often surprised that a vodka at a lower price point can actually be this smooth.

Here are some details about each variety:

• This holiday season, the brand is available in a variety of gift boxes that feature a 750-mL bottle and a 100-mL sample.
• Khortytsa Platinum, which is the most popular item in the line, is available in a handsome gift box with a 100-mL sample of Khortytsa Platinum for a suggested retail price of $14.99.
• Khortytsa Honey Pepper, which offers a spicy zing to a variety of cocktails, is also available in an attractive gift set with a 100-mL on-pack of Khortytsa Platinum for the same price.
• A gift pack of Khortytsa Ice, specially formulated to be served frozen -- with the bottle turning blue when chilled -- features two branded shot glasses for $14.99.
• Finally, Khortytsa De Luxe – the line’s “super premium” vodka for connoisseurs -- has a stunning new gift box for a suggested retail of $19.99.

I am really loving these prices, especially for gift-giving. I can really stay within a reasonable budget.

For more information on Khortytsa Vodka, as well as recipes visit www.khor.com. Be sure to follow on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for product updates and promotions.