Get ready to spice up your Cinco de Mayo celebration like never before! As we gear up to honour Mexico's rich culture and history, there's no better way to raise a toast than with the vibrant flavours of authentic Mexican liquors. From the iconic allure of tequila to the smoky depths of mezcal and the sweet indulgence of Mexican liqueurs, our shelves are stocked with everything you need to turn your festivities into a fiesta to remember.

So, grab your sombrero and join us as we embark on a flavorful journey through the world of Mexican spirits. Whether you're a seasoned tequila aficionado or a curious newcomer, we have something special for every palate. Let's dive in and discover how to elevate your Cinco de Mayo celebration with the perfect blend of tradition, flavour, and fun!

The History of Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo commemorates the historic Battle of Puebla, which took place on May 5, 1862, in the city of Puebla, Mexico. The battle was fought between the Mexican army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, and the French forces, who were considered one of the most powerful military forces in the world at the time.

The significance of the Battle of Puebla lies in its unexpected outcome. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, the Mexican army achieved a remarkable victory over the French forces. This victory was a triumph of arms and a symbol of Mexican resilience, determination, and patriotism. While the Battle of Puebla was a significant event in Mexican history, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated more widely in the United States as it has evolved into a celebration of Mexican culture, heritage, and identity. It serves as an opportunity for people of Mexican descent and others to come together, enjoy Mexican food and culture, and, of course, raise a toast with Mexican beverages like tequila and mezcal.

The Flavourful World of Mexican Spirits

When it comes to spirits, few countries can rival Mexico's vibrant and diverse offerings. From the iconic allure of tequila to the smoky depths of mezcal and the sweet indulgence of Mexican liqueurs, the world of Mexican liquor is as rich and flavourful as the country’s cultural tapestry.

Tequila reigns supreme as Mexico’s most famous export, renowned for its bold flavours and centuries-old tradition. Made primarily from the blue agave plant, tequila offers a spectrum of taste experiences, from the crisp and herbal notes of Blanco (silver) tequila to the rich and complex flavours of reposado (rested) and añejo (aged) varieties. Whether sipped neat, mixed into cocktails, or savoured alongside lime and salt, tequila embodies the spirit of celebration and adventure. Learn more about Tequila’s origin and history here.

Tequila’s rustic cousin, mezcal, offers a taste of Mexico’s artisanal craftsmanship. Produced from a variety of agave, it has a distinguished smoky flavour reflecting a deep connection to the land and its heritage. Whether enjoyed straight or mixed into cocktails, the spirit captivates the senses with its boldness and complexity.

Besides spirits, Mexico also offers a broad range of liqueuers that are perfect for any cocktail. From the coffee-infused richness of Kahlúa to the herbal complexity of Tia Maria and the floral elegance of Damiana, Mexican liqueurs offer a delightful range of flavors and aromas. Whether drizzled over ice cream, mixed into cocktails, or enjoyed as a digestif, these liqueurs capture the essence of Mexico's culinary and botanical heritage.

Crafting Cinco de Mayo Cocktails

As you gear up to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, why not elevate your fiesta with some delicious Mexican-inspired cocktails? From the classic Margarita to creative concoctions featuring tequila, mezcal, and Mexican liqueurs, there's no shortage of ways to toast to this festive occasion. Here are a few recipes to get you started!

Your Perfect Margarita

Do you prefer on the rocks or frozen? A traditional lime or a spicy jalapeño flavour? Find your perfect margarita with these 5 Margarita Recipes here.

Ranch Water

A staple that became the cocktail of the summer last year. View the original recipe here.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ oz tequila blanco
• 1 oz fresh lime juice, plus lime wedges for serving
• Pinch of fine salt
• Sparkling Water

Directions

Fill a tall glass with ice and add in tequila and lime juice. Add a tiny sprinkle of salt to bring out the flavours before topping with sparkling water. Gently stir once with a spoon to mix. Add a lime wedge and serve immediately.

Mezcal Palmoa

Try this smoky take on the classic grapefruit cocktail. View the original recipe here. 

Ingredients

• 2 oz Mezcal
• 1/2 oz Lime Juice
• 2 oz Grapefruit Juice
• 2 oz Sparkling Water
• Tajín, for rim
• Salt, for rim

Directions

Mix tajin and salt on a plate. Wipe the rim of a highball glass with a slice of lime and roll in the spice mix. Fill the glass with ice, add tequila, lime, and grapefruit juice, and top with sparkling water. Stir to combine.

Michaelada

Do you not want the spirit but still craving a cocktail? Elevate your favourite lager. We’re using Angry Otter Lager, which is available exclusively at your local Angry Otter Liquor. View the original recipe here.

Ingredients

• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Chilli Powder
• 1 tsp Black Pepper
• Dash Lime Juice
• 3 Dashes Hot Sauce
• Lager (Use your favourite, but we recommend the Angry Otter Lager)

Directions

Mix the salt, chilli powder and black pepper on a plate. Wipe the rim of a glass with a slice of lime and roll in the spice mix. Add ice, lime juice, and 3 shakes of hot sauce, then top with lager.

These are just a few ideas to kick off your Cinco de Mayo celebration with style. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients and flavours to craft the perfect cocktail for your fiesta.

If you make any of these recipes, make sure to share them with us on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok.