El Diablo

The El Diablo cocktail is a tequila-based classic that balances spice, tartness, and deep fruit flavors. Built on a foundation of reposado tequila, it combines the bright acidity of fresh lime juice with the dark berry notes of crème de cassis. Topped with refreshing ginger beer, the drink offers a satisfying contrast of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy. With its bold flavors and striking presentation, this cocktail is both approachable and distinctive perfect for anyone looking to expand beyond the standard tequila highball. Its roots in tiki culture make it a timeless drink with plenty of character.

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Tasting Notes

El Diablo balances sweet, tart, and spicy flavors in a way that feels both bold and refreshing. Reposado tequila provides a smooth, slightly oaky base, while crème de cassis adds a fruity depth with rich blackcurrant notes. Fresh lime juice sharpens the profile with a bright citrus edge, ensuring the sweetness doesn’t overwhelm. Ginger beer completes the drink with its lively fizz and spicy warmth, giving the cocktail an invigorating finish. The garnish of lime wedge brings a fresh aroma that ties everything together. Each sip delivers a layered mix of fruit, spice, and tequila character.

Equipment and Glassware

Making an El Diablo requires only basic bar tools. A cocktail shaker is essential for combining and chilling the tequila, lime juice, and crème de cassis. A strainer ensures a smooth pour into the serving glass. For presentation, a Collins glass works best, as it provides enough space for both the base and the ginger beer topper. A bar spoon comes in handy for a gentle stir after topping with ginger beer, allowing the flavors to integrate without losing carbonation. Ice cubes are needed for both shaking and serving, keeping the cocktail crisp from start to finish.

Ingredients

• 2 oz reposado tequila
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• 1/2 oz crème de cassis
• 2-3 oz ginger beer
• Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions

• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add reposado tequila, fresh lime juice, and crème de cassis to the shaker.
• Shake the mixture well until it’s chilled.
• Fill a Collins glass with ice.
• Strain the mixture into the Collins glass.
• Top the glass with ginger beer.
• Garnish the drink with a lime wedge.

Pro Tips

• Use freshly squeezed lime juice for best flavor.
• Choose a high-quality reposado tequila for smoothness and depth.
• Top with chilled ginger beer to preserve carbonation.
• Stir lightly after adding ginger beer to keep the fizz.
• Large ice cubes in the Collins glass will slow dilution.
• Adjust crème de cassis slightly depending on your sweetness preference.
• Try a spicy ginger beer if you prefer a bolder finish.
• Garnish with a lime wheel for a cleaner look.

When to Serve

El Diablo is an excellent cocktail for both casual and celebratory occasions. Its balance of fruit and spice makes it especially suited for warm afternoons or early evening gatherings, where a refreshing drink is welcome. The tequila base makes it a natural choice for taco nights, Mexican-inspired dinners, or festive parties. At the same time, its striking appearance with a deep ruby hue topped by fizz makes it a good candidate for more formal cocktail hours. Whether served outdoors in summer or indoors as a lively pre-dinner drink, El Diablo adapts easily to a variety of settings.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Reposado Tequila: Espolòn, Herradura, Don Julio
• Crème de Cassis: Lejay, Giffard, Mathilde
• Ginger Beer: Fever-Tree, Goslings, Bundaberg

Similar Cocktails

• Haunted Pumpkin Patch Margarita
• The Upside Down Cocktail
• The Black Diablo
• Scary Spiced Cocktail
• Cranberry Ginger Paloma