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15 Cinco de Mayo Cocktails to Complete Your Fiesta

April 25, 2024 by

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Keen to whip up some delicious cocktails for your Cinco de Mayo fiesta? ¡Arriba! This guide features our go-to selection of easy-yet-impressive drinks to celebrate this festive occasion. We cover everything from classic Margaritas to unique tequila-free creations. Get ready to impress your guests with your DIY bartending skills and enjoy a Cinco de Mayo filled with vibrant flavours! 

PS: if you’re curious to see which Cinco de Mayo cocktail you would enjoy the most, take our easy quiz and get an exclusive Cinco de Mayo cocktail recipe!

Classic Cinco de Mayo cocktail ideas

1. Lime Margarita

Top image of refreshing and citrusy Lime Margarita Cocktails

No Mexican-themed party would be complete without the classic Lime Margarita. It tastes like biting into a perfectly ripe, juicy lime, but with a touch of supple sweetness that lingers. Then comes a subtle warmth, and a pleasant tingle that lets you know there’s a kick behind this refreshing wave. The finish is clean and invigorating, leaving you wanting another sip of that summery goodness. 

Make it with: Grand Marnier 

Read next: 15 Sublime Lime Cocktails You Gotta Try 

2. Paloma

Two tall and refreshing light pink Paloma cocktails with a Cinco de Mayo theme in the background

The traditional Paloma cocktail is a citrus-forward drink that combines the vibrant flavours of tequila, grapefruit soda, lime juice, and a touch of salt. Typically made with blanco or reposado tequila, this cocktail offers a perfect balance of tantalising tartness and subtle sweetness. The tangy grapefruit pairs harmoniously with the tequila’s earthy notes, while the lime juice adds a bright acidity to the mix. It’s no wonder it’s rated one of the best Cinco de Mayo cocktails! 

Make it with: Espolòn Tequila Blanco 

More here: 10 Playful Paloma Variations for Picture-Perfect Sipping 

3. Tequila Sunrise

Top Shot of A Refreshing Tequila Sunrise Cocktail

The Tequila Sunrise starts with a wave of sweet citrus, then becomes refreshingly tart, but not sour, with a smooth texture that glides down your throat. As the flavours settle, a hint of earthy warmth emerges even as the sweetness lingers, all beautifully balanced by the zesty citrus tang.  

4. Naked and Famous

Two Naked and Famous cocktails served with nachos and guacamole

The Naked and Famous cocktail is a sensational sipper made with mezcal, chartreuse, fresh lime juice and Aperol. It’s a brilliant riff on the gin-based Last Word cocktail, with the addition of mezcal adding an earthy and smoky flavour, resulting in a very distinct mezcal cocktail that always makes a splash.  

Make it with Aperol 

Now Trending: Easy Mezcal Cocktails for Agave Lovers 

5. Ranch Water

Three Ranch Water cocktails with lime and fresh mint garnish

To be fair, the Ranch Water cocktail was first dreamt up in West Texas, but this tequila-based clinker has a sassy vibe that makes it a perfect fit for a Cinco de Mayo party. It’s also low-calorie, so makes it’s a nice option for folks who prefer their drinks on the lighter end of the calorie scale.  

Creative Cinco de Mayo cocktail ideas

1. Spiced Cranberry Paloma

Two Cranberry Palomas with cranberry and lime garnish

A dressed-up Paloma is a thing of beauty. This Spiced Cranberry Paloma sashays into the shindig, flashing zesty notes of grapefruit juice and orange liqueur, fringed with cranberry sauce, sugared cranberries and fresh rosemary to round it all off. Much amaze. 

Make it with: Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge 

2. Oaxacan Negroni

Two Oaxacan Negroni cocktails on a colourful placemat for Cinco de Mayo

Inspired by Mexico’s vibrant Oaxaca state, the Oaxacan Negroni is a smoky testament to the versatility of the original recipe. Mezcal replaces gin in the classic equal parts ratio, bringing an avalanche of new flavours with it.  The Oaxacan Negroni is more than just a cocktail. It’s a cultural experience that features the best of Mexico and Italy. 

Make it with: Montelobos Mezcal

3. Mexican Mule

Two Spicy Mexican Mule cocktails served in copper mugs and garnished with sliced jalapeños and lime wedges

A twist on the traditional Moscow Mule, this guy is seriously spiffy. Can you guess the twist? Tequila kicks vodka to the curb and joins the usual suspects of lime juice and extra fiery ginger beer for a bit of huzzah 

Learn more: All the Tangy Ginger Beer Cocktails You’ll Ever Need! 

4. Matador

A classic Matador Cinco de Mayo cocktail

The Matador cocktail, or el Matador if you’re feeling fancy, is a classic sipping cocktail that’s as complex as a bullfighter’s footwork. It may only have three ingredients, but each one has depth and character, and when shaken together, they create a timeless cocktail that refuses to be forgotten. 

Make it with: Cinzano Extra Dry Vermouth 

5. Añejo Old Fashioned

Two Añejo Old Fashioned cocktails with orange and rosemary garnish

Crafted with aged añejo tequila, agave syrup and Angostura bitters the Añejo Old Fashioned is a delightful twist on the classic Old Fashioned and delivers a harmonious blend of flavours. 

Make it with: Espolòn Añejo Tequila 

Cinco de Mayo cocktails without tequila

1. Margarita Mocktail

Margarita Mocktails with salt and lime wheels

The classic Margarita Mocktail is one of our favourite Cinco de Mayo cocktail recipes. Our tried-and-tested recipe brings a few unexpected flavours together that mimic the sharp taste of tequila. We like to combine freshly squeezed lime, lemon, and orange juice with a little olive brine over ice. You can sweeten it with a hint of agave nectar, if preferred, and top it off with some soda water for a little fizz.  

What is the Best Margarita Recipe? 10 Ways to Make a Margarita 

2. Watermelon Daiquiri

Two Watermelon Daiquiri Cinco de Mayo cocktails

Make sure you’ve got this tasty Watermelon Daiquiri on the menu to really get the party started. This rum cocktail has springtime entertaining written all over it, and it will make a great addition to Cinco de Mayo gatherings. What’s more, it’s super easy to turn this refreshing watermelon daiquiri recipe into a fantastic mocktail the whole family can enjoy. 

3. Horchata

Two Horchata cocktails with cinnamon garnish for Cinco de Mayo

Horchata (pronounced or-CHAH-tah) is a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage enjoyed throughout Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries. To make a batch to serve 6, blend 1.5 cups of soaked white rice, half a cup of toasted almonds, and two cinnamon sticks with four cups of water until smooth. Let it sit for four hours or overnight. Strain the mixture into a pitcher, and stir in four cups of milk, half a cup of sugar, and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Adjust sugar to taste. Chill and serve over ice!  

TOP TIP: You can toast the almonds in a pan for a few minutes before adding them to the blender. 

4. Michelada

Three spicy Michelada cocktails served with pulled pork tacos

This beer-based cocktail is a spicy treat that combines a crispy lager with lime juice, hot sauce, and spices. Serve your Micheladas in salt-rimmed glasses for an extra flavour punch. 

5. Pineapple Gin Punch

A refreshing Pineapple Gin Punch served in a glass pitcher with fresh pineapple garnish.

Serving a crowd? Then this pineapple and gin cocktail is the one for you. To whip up a batch of this crowd-pleasing cocktail, combine 3 cups pineapple juice, 0.5 cups lemon juice, 360ml gin, 120ml Grand Marnier, and a few pinches of allspice in a pitcher filled with ice. Stir to combine. Pour into ice-filled highball glasses, top each drink off with a splash of Champagne, and enjoy! 

Make it with: Bulldog Gin 

Read next: Pitcher-Perfect Batching Cocktails for a Crowd 

Cinco de Mayo cocktail party planning

Top view of a variety of Mexican foods contributed by a group of friends for a Cinco de Mayo potluck.

Planning a fiesta for your friends? Then check out our full Cinco de Mayo party planning guide. This easy source features all sorts of fun decoration ideas, alongside delicious food options like quesadillas, guacamole, and a taco bar. Liven up the party with music, salsa dancing, and a piñata for an unforgettable celebration. We’ve got you sorted.  

Cocktail garnishes and accessories

Transform your Cinco de Mayo cocktails from delicious to delightfully festive with creative garnish ideas: 

Cinco de Mayo cocktail rim dressings

Close up of a Cinco de Mayo cocktail on a colourful table dressed for festivities

  • Tajin rim. This chili-lime powder adds a vibrant red hue and a spicy kick. 
  • Cinnamon sugar rim. Perfect for cocktails with warm undertones like chocolate or tequila. 
  • Coarse sea salt rim. A classic touch that adds a savoury crunch and enhances the flavours of your drink. 
  • Chocolate rim. For decadent drinks, dip the rim in melted dark or white chocolate, then roll in crushed nuts or sprinkles for extra flair. 
  • Sparkles. Look out for rimming sugars with edible glitter if you’re in the mood for some sparky vibes.  

Creative garnishes

Close up of three cocktails garnished with pansies, surrounded by a scattering of pretty edible flowers for cocktails

  • Ditch the wedge. Instead of plain lime or orange wedges, create spirals or scalloped wedges with a channel knife for an impressive presentation. 
  • Spicy touch. Add a kick with a muddled or sliced jalapeño. 
  • Floral flair. Edible flowers that are added to the rim or floated on the drink add a beautiful and exotic touch. 
  • Sweet surprise. Candied citrus peels or dehydrated fruit slices add a touch of sweetness and elegance. 
  • Go green. A sprig of fresh mint or rosemary adds a touch of herbal freshness. 
  • Coffee time. For chocolate cocktails, add a few coffee beans for a sophisticated look. 

Festive napkins

Close up of a Cinco de Mayo cocktail on a colourful table dressed for festivities

  • Themed napkins. Find cocktail napkins with festive Cinco de Mayo designs like piñatas, cacti, or Mexican flags. 
  • Colour coordination. Use colourful paper napkins in shades of green, white, and red to match the Mexican flag. 

There you have it – 15 amazing cocktails for Cinco de Mayo to try at home, and a few fun ideas to get extra festive with it! For more tasty insights and inspiration, visit the Espolòn, Cabo Wabo, and Mayenda Tequila websites.  

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Yes, indeed! Our favourite tequila-free cocktails for Cinco de Mayo include the Margarita Mocktail, Watermelon Daiquiri, and Michelada.

For a fiesta in a glass, ditch the wedge and go fancy with fruity spirals! You can also get creative with rims (Tajin, chocolate, cinnamon sugar) and garnishes (candied fruit, jalapeño slices, fresh herbs).

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