LALO Southern Batanga is a Southern-inspired twist on the classic Batanga, this cocktail blends crisp tequila with the briny tang of pickle juice and a splash of Cherry Cola. It’s bold, unexpected, and refreshingly balanced, perfect for fans of savory-sweet combinations and anyone looking for a lively new tequila drink.

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Tasting Notes

The LALO Southern Batanga delivers an unexpected mix of flavors that’s equal parts refreshing, savory, and lightly sweet. The tequila lays a clean foundation with its bright agave profile, while dill pickle brine adds a salty, tangy edge. Lime juice brings in citrus sharpness that wakes up the palate. Topping it all with Cherry Cola introduces a layer of soft cherry flavor and gentle fizz, balancing the acidity and salinity. A slice of pickle and a single cherry finish the drink with a mix of aroma and novelty. It’s playful, bold, and perfect for those who like savory cocktails.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare this drink, you’ll need a jigger for measuring, a highball glass, and a bar spoon for mixing. A citrus squeezer will help get the most juice from fresh limes. A small dish or plate is useful for salting the glass rim. Use a knife and cutting board to slice the pickle garnish cleanly. Standard ice cubes work best in a highball glass to keep the drink cool while maintaining carbonation. Since the drink is built in the glass, no shaker or strainer is required, making it a simple and quick option for any setting.

Ingredients

1½ ounces LALO Tequila Blanco
⅓ ounce dill pickle brine
½ ounce fresh lime juice
Cherry Cola to top
Salt rim
Garnish with a pickle slice and one cherry

Instructions

Rim a highball glass with salt and fill with ice.
Add tequila, pickle brine, and lime juice.
Top with Cherry Cola and stir gently.
Garnish with a pickle slice and cherry. Makes one serving.

Pro Tips

Use chilled Cherry Cola to preserve fizz
Adjust brine to taste if you prefer a bolder or subtler flavor
Fresh lime juice makes a noticeable difference
Large ice cubes melt slower and help retain carbonation
Stir gently to avoid losing bubbles
Try different types of pickle brine for variation
Use a coarse salt for better grip on the rim
A cocktail skewer can help secure both garnishes

When to Serve

This LALO Southern Batanga suits casual occasions and is especially fitting for barbecues, game day gatherings, or backyard hangouts. It’s a conversation starter, thanks to its briny twist on a classic cola cocktail. Serve it when guests are in the mood for something bold and slightly offbeat. The refreshing mix of lime and soda makes it a good warm-weather choice, while the savory notes also play well with fried or grilled food. It’s quick to build, easy to scale, and flexible enough to pair with a variety of settings and snacks.

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