Beyond Margaritas: Tequila + Mixer = Game Changer

Oct 07, 2025

Tequila is everyone’s favourite spirit right now.
But as we’ve said before, there is more to tequila than the margarita.

Now before the comment section blows up, we’re not hating on Margs. They’re popular for good reason. They’re simple, and they’re delicious. But perhaps more so than with any other spirit category, guests often get stuck on Margaritas and don’t know what other tequila drinks to try.

We have previously shared our favourite Tequila cocktails that aren’t Margaritas (https://www.barcats.com.au/hospitality-news-and-events/2024/11/Four-Tequila-Cocktails-That-Aren-t-Margaritas-and-Two-That-Are/), but today we’re going to take it a step further.

We’re going to be looking at the humble spirit and mixer, or in this case, the Don Julio + mixer.

Chances are, you don’t make many of these. Maybe you’ve never even tried Tequila with a mixer. If that’s the case, there's no need to worry, we’ve got you covered!

Let’s start with the simple ones.

Don Julio Blanco and Soda.
Everyone knows the Vodka and soda; it’s a crowd favourite. Think of Tequila and soda as a flavourful alternative. Especially with the addition of fresh lime juice from one or two squeezed lime wedges, you’ve got the ultimate highball. This is often known as a Ranch Water or a Tequila Rickey. Whatever you call it, it deserves to be ordered more!

Don Julio Blanco and Tonic.
This doesn’t need much explanation. Gin and Tonics have had their moment; we’re entering the Tequila and Tonic era.

Don Julio Reposado and Grapefruit soda.
If you add a salt rim and juice from half a lime, you’ve got a Paloma, the most popular cocktail in Mexico. These undoubtedly give the drink an X factor, but the combo of Tequila and grapefruit always works. We like Don Julio Reposado in this one.

Don Julio Blanco and Cola.
Following the same format as a Paloma, if you add a salt rim and some lime juice to this, you’ve got a Batanga cocktail. This combo will probably seem familiar, but with extra character.

Don Julio Reposado or Anejo and Ginger Ale.
As with the last two, this is halfway to being an El Diablo, but pairing Don Julio Reposado or Añejo with a high-quality ginger ale works as well as any whisky.

When you move beyond the typical mixers, you can start to have fun with the concept. Sometimes restricting your creativity, such as only being able to add a single ingredient, is the best way to spark inspiration. You might just stumble across the next Whisky Apple!

Here are a few of our favourite Don Julio + mixer serves.

Don Julio Blanco and Peach/ Citrus Kombucha.
We enjoy experimenting with various fruity Kombuchas available at your local supermarket.

Don Julio Blanco or Reposado with Raspberry Iced tea.
A smooth balance of agave warmth and berry sweetness.

Don Julio Blanco and Lemon Squash.
How can it be a guilty pleasure if you don’t feel guilty?

Don Julio Reposado and Coconut Water (still or sparkling).
It’s giving summer vibes.

Don Julio Añejo and chilled green tea.
Zen on the outside, bold on the inside.

Key Takeaways

• Tequila mixes as well as any other spirit; have a play around with these serves and start recommending them to your margarita-loving guests.

• If someone has already had a marg, maybe they want to try one of these next?

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