Name: American Hero Cocktail
Prep time: 4 min
Ingredients: 1.5 oz silver tequila; 1 oz pomegranate liqueur; 2 oz cranberry juice; 0.5 oz lime juice; 0.5 oz simple syrup; Garnish: lime wedge or wheel

Pin15

Flip

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The American Hero Cocktail is bold, bright, and packed with flavor. Made with silver tequila, pomegranate liqueur, and cranberry juice, it brings a clean mix of sweet, tart, and strong. The deep red color looks sharp in the glass, and the taste strikes a nice balance fruit forward without being too sugary. It’s a great pick for summer gatherings, holiday weekends, or any time you want something simple that still stands out. Serve it over ice with a lime wedge or a few pomegranate seeds if you’ve got them. It’s easy to make, smooth to sip, and full of character.

This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy

Quick Content Links

Tasting Notes

The American Hero Cocktail is a vibrant blend of tart, sweet, and citrus flavors, balanced by the smooth warmth of silver tequila. Pomegranate liqueur and cranberry juice give the drink its deep red hue and fruity richness, while lime juice adds a zesty, refreshing kick. Simple syrup smooths the edges, making it perfectly sippable. Served in a sleek coupe and garnished with a lime wedge, this cocktail is bold yet balanced, with a flavor as striking as its appearance. It’s a fitting tribute to celebration ideal for patriotic holidays or any time you want a red-toned stunner with spirit.

Equipment and Glassware

To make the American Hero Cocktail, you’ll need a cocktail shaker to properly chill and integrate the ingredients. A jigger ensures accurate proportions, and a fine mesh strainer creates a clean, smooth pour. Serve this cocktail in a chilled coupe glass or Nick & Nora glass to highlight its vibrant color and sleek texture. A citrus knife is useful for cutting the lime garnish, and a bar spoon can help adjust the final taste with a touch more syrup or juice, if desired.

Ingredients

1.5 oz silver tequila
1 oz pomegranate liqueur
2 oz cranberry juice
0.5 oz lime juice
0.5 oz simple syrup
Garnish: lime wedge or wheel

Instructions

Shake: Add silver tequila, pomegranate liqueur, cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup to a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously until well chilled.
Strain: Strain into a chilled cocktail or coupe glass.
Garnish: Add a lime wedge or wheel for a fresh, zesty finish.

Pro Tips

Use freshly squeezed lime juice for best flavor. For a lighter version, reduce the cranberry juice to 1.5 oz and top with club soda.
To elevate the visual appeal for holidays, rim the glass with red or blue sugar, or garnish with a mini flag pick.
Want a smokier twist? Use a reposado tequila or add a tiny dash of mezcal.
Keep all ingredients chilled before mixing to preserve the color and reduce dilution.

When to Serve

The American Hero Cocktail is ideal for Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Veterans Day, or any event that celebrates strength, courage, and bold flavor. It’s perfect for cocktail parties, patriotic-themed gatherings, or as a signature red cocktail for formal events and summer nights. Its deep hue and bright taste make it just as appealing during holiday dinners, wedding receptions, or any occasion where you want a standout drink with flair.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Use a high-quality silver tequila like Espolòn Blanco, Olmeca Altos Plata, or Patrón Silver for clean, smooth flavor.
For pomegranate liqueur, PAMA is a popular choice, or try homemade using pomegranate juice and vodka.
Opt for 100% cranberry juice for tart balance or cranberry cocktail for a sweeter finish.
Use homemade simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water) and garnish with fresh, organic limes for the best presentation.

Similar Cocktails