Honor family and tradition with these Dia de los Muertos cocktails
While the ofrendas pay tribute to loved ones, these Dia de los Muertos cocktails toast to the past, present, and future. From classic flavors to innovative combinations, the glass is full with refreshing beverages. Ready to raise a toast?
From the marigolds to the Calaveras, there are certain images that are classic to the November 1 celebration. While the sentiments are at the heart of the celebration, some people look to the day as a way to gather with friends and family. In those moments, it can be nice to have a beverage in the hand.
These Dia de los Muertos cocktails come in a variety of options. From riffs on classic cocktails to creative names, these options will have many people asking for another.
1800 Ghost Margarita
While the vapor looks like a spirit looming over the glass, it is a welcoming vision to those willing to take that first sip. The combination of the zesty notes from the lime contrasting the baking spice syrup is welcome on a chilly night. Even beyond the November 1 celebration, this cocktail is a welcome addition to any event.
Ingredients
- 2 oz. 1800 Cristalino
- ¾ oz. baking spice syrup (cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice)
- ½ oz. clarified lime juice
- Baking spice vapor*
Directions:
- Combine tequila, baking spice syrup, and clarified lime juice in a cocktail shaker with ice, and shake vigorously. Strain into a coupe glass over fresh ice. Garnish with grated nutmeg and baking spice vapor.
- *Baking Spice Vapor Directions: Steep 2 cinnamon sticks, 5 allspice pods and 2 nutmeg pods in a glass of warm water. Add 2 small pellets of dry ice into the water. Allow the reaction to create a thick vapor, and carefully pour just the vapor over the cocktail.
Hornitos Día de los Muertos Margarita
A riff on a classic margarita, this cocktail is about the contrasts and vibrancy. From the edible marigold garnish to the chili rim, that balance of sweet, bright, and a little heat is a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
- 2 Parts Hornitos Plata or Reposado Tequila
- 1 Part Orange Juice
- ½ Part Lime Juice
- ¾ Part Honey Syrup
- Orange Wheel
- Edible Marigold
- Salt & Chili Powder Rim
Directions:
- Put equal parts salt and chili powder on a plate. Use an orange or lime wedge to wet the rim of the glass, and gently roll it into the salt/chili powder. Combine cocktail ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake and strain into your rimmed rocks glass over fresh ice.
Meet me at the Altar
Although the cocktail name might have some people thinking of a wedding, this drink refers to the ofrenda. Although a little complicated, it is worth the effort. Plus the combination of absinthe and mole bitters is one that will never be forgotten This cocktail is courtesy of Las Californias.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Cítrico
- 1 oz Nativo
- 1 oz Lemon
- .75 oz Ofrenda Orgeat*
- 1 dash absinthe
- 1 dash Mole bitters
- Garnish: Micro flowers or marigold petals.
Method:
- Add all ingredients in tin and shake with ice, double strain into glass and garnish.
- *Ofrenda Orgeat: 1 part Day old Pan de Muertos, 2 parts Marigold Tea, 2 parts sugar- Blend until emulsified.
Sangre de Mezcal
This cocktail combines all the flavor profiles. Sweet, floral, and bright, it is a well balanced sipper. Even though the mezcal as a slight smoky, earthy character, the other ingredients make it welcoming. This cocktail is available at: Aldama (Brooklyn, NY) and was created by Christopher Reyes, Partner of Aldama.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Ilegal Mezcal
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz Vermouth
- 0.5 oz water
- 1.5 oz sugar
- 1 oz Hibiscus
Method:
- Combine all ingredients into a blender with ice. Blend until smooth. Serve in a rocks glass with a salted rim.
While this Casamigos cocktail is fairly straightforward, it is the cinnamon addition that elevates the whole drink. That touch of warm spice contrasting the citrus notes is intriguing.
Ingredients
- .75 oz. Casamigos Mezcal
- .75 oz. Casamigos Blanco Tequila
- 1 oz. Blood Orange Juice
- 1 oz. Fresh Lime Juice
- .5 oz. Simple Syrup
- 1 Pinch Cinnamon
- Garnish Dehydrated Blood Orange Wheel, 2 Edible Flowers and Sage Leaf
Method:
- Combine all ingredients into tin shaker. Add ice, shake vigorously and strain into skull mug or rocks glass. Add fresh ice, top off with pebble ice and garnish.