Said to have originated as a favored refreshment among West Texas ranchers, Ranch Water is a simple tequila highball that has grown in popularity to become a summertime staple across the U.S. The ingredients for Ranch Water are as simple as they come: tequila, lime juice and sparkling water. This places the drink in a cocktail category that dates to the 1800s, the Rickey, which adheres to the same structure but using either gin or bourbon. Whatever the base liquor, the combination creates a refreshing sugar-free drink that’s as tasty in a cocktail bar as it is outdoors under the afternoon sun. For practical purposes, any sparkling water will work, but Topo Chico is often said to be a staple of true Ranch Water. The seltzer brand, with roots in Mexico and long popular in Texas, is a highly carbonated option with vigorous bubbles that act is tiny magnifying glasses for the tequila’s flavors, while retaining effervescence as you sip. Acquired by Coca-Cola in 2017, who aggressively expanded the product’s footprint across the U.S., the growing nationwide availability of Topo Chico has played a large part in increasing the popularity of Ranch Water outside of Texas. What’s the Best Tequila for Ranch Water?Any tequila of choice will work well in the drink, so there’s no problem with simply sticking to what you enjoy best. If you’re looking to explore a little with your options, highland tequilas will often be lighter in profile, creating a more fruity or floral drink. Lowland (or “valley”) tequilas will tend to be more herbal and earthy, for a bolder Ranch Water. Espolòn Tequila Blanco is a bartender standard that comes in at an affordable pricepoint around $23, and brings fruit-forward notes. Milagro is another option that offers a light profile for a more refreshing hot-weather Ranch Water, while Corralejo is a smooth-drinking tequila that plays well in almost any cocktail, and has pronounced grapefruit and lime flavors. For an earthier tequila, Fortaleza is a valley option that brings herbal and vegetal notes, as does Chinaco with its telltale jalapeno-reminiscent backbone. If you’re looking to split the difference,Tequila Ocho Plata strikes a good middle ground between floral aromas with a touch of earthiness. How to Make Ranch Water
Ingredients
1 ½ ounce tequila
½ lime
Sparkling water
Lime wedge, for garnish (optional)
Directions Add tequila to highball glass. Squeeze in juice of one half lime, and drop hull into glass. Fill with ice and add sparkling water to top. Garnish with additional lime wedge if desired. |
AuthorOlivia CAMPBELL Archives
April 2023
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