Tequila Sour

A little history behind the Tequila Sour

The Tequila Sour is a variation of the classic sour cocktail, a family of drinks known for their balance of citrus, sweetener, and a spirit base. While the Whisky Sour often takes centre stage, the Tequila Sour has earned its own place, especially when made with a high-quality option like Espolòn Reposado, thanks to the vibrant flavours of tequila.

This cocktail offers a lively Mexican twist on the traditional sour, blending the sharpness of lime with the earthy and slightly smoky notes of reposado tequila. It’s perfect when you’re in the mood for something bold yet balanced.

Also see: Trending Cocktail Flavours with Espolòn Tequila: Recipes and Expert Tips

Why use egg white in a Tequila Sour?

The addition of egg white may seem unusual, but it plays an essential role in creating that silky, smooth texture which makes the Tequila Sour stand out. When shaken vigorously, egg white forms a frothy foam that not only adds a luxurious mouthfeel but also softens the sharper notes of tequila and lime.

Don’t worry—egg whites in cocktails are safe to consume as long as you use fresh, pasteurised eggs. If you’re hesitant, some bartenders substitute aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) for egg whites, which gives the same frothy effect and is a great vegan alternative.

Go pro: Your Guide To Making Egg White Cocktails The Easy Way

Garnish ideas beyond the lime wheel

While a lemon or lime wheel is a classic garnish, why not switch things up and get creative with your Tequila Sour presentation? Try a dehydrated citrus slice for a more rustic look or add a sprinkle of salt or chilli powder to the rim for a fun, spicy twist.

You could also garnish with a sprig of rosemary or thyme for a touch of herbal complexity. If you want to add some colour, thin slices of blood orange are a striking garnish that complements the citrus notes of the drink.

Choosing the right tequila

For a Tequila Sour, reposado tequila like Espolòn Reposado is ideal because its ageing process in oak barrels introduces subtle layers of vanilla, caramel, and warm spices, adding depth to the cocktail. Reposado tequila has a smoother, richer flavour profile compared to its blanco counterpart, which can sometimes be sharper.

If you’re after something slightly different, you could try a lightly aged añejo for an extra level of richness, although it might slightly overpower the citrus notes. Always opt for 100% agave tequila to ensure the best quality and taste.

More cocktails to explore if you love the Tequila Sour

If you love the balance of tart and sweet with a punchy tequila base in the Tequila Sour, here are some other cocktails you should try:

• Margarita: The ultimate classic tequila cocktail, featuring lime juice, orange liqueur, and tequila.
• Paloma: A vibrant blend of tequila, grapefruit soda, and a squeeze of lime.
• Tequila Sunrise: A beautifully layered drink with tequila, orange juice, and grenadine—perfect for sunny days.
• Mexican Mule: A zesty twist on the Moscow Mule, made with tequila, lime juice, and ginger beer, served in a chilled copper mug.