Cherry Batanga

The Cherry Batanga is a fun, fruity twist on the classic tequila and cola combo. It starts with tequila blanco and fresh lime juice for a bright, zesty base, then adds cherry syrup and a maraschino cherry for a touch of sweetness. Topped with cola, it’s smooth, fizzy, and easy to enjoy. The cherry brings just enough flavor without overpowering the drink, while the lime keeps things fresh. It’s a simple, laid-back cocktail that’s great for casual get-togethers, warm evenings, or anytime you want something familiar with a little extra flavor. Serve over ice with a cherry on top.

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Tasting Notes

The Cherry Batanga is fizzy, bold, and packed with flavor. Tequila blanco gives it a clean, sharp base. The lime juice adds a bit of tartness that keeps the drink from being too sweet. Cherry syrup softens things with a fruity kick, and cola ties it all together with a deep, caramel-like note. It’s refreshing but also rich enough to hold up as a cocktail, not just a spiked soda. The maraschino cherry garnish gives a sweet finish and adds a pop of color. It’s easygoing but still has enough punch to keep things interesting.

Equipment and Glassware

You won’t need much just a jigger, spoon, and a glass to build in. No shaker or strainer needed. A tall glass like a highball or Collins works best so there’s plenty of room for ice and cola. You can also use a large rocks glass if you prefer a shorter pour with more intense flavor. A bar spoon is useful for stirring, especially to keep the bubbles from going flat. A cocktail pick for the cherry adds a nice touch if you’re serving it with a little flair. Chill the glass if possible for best results.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz tequila blanco
• ½ oz lime juice
• 0.5 oz cherry syrup
• 3 oz Cherry Coca Cola
• Salt, for rimming
• 1 maraschino cherry and lime wheel, for garnish

Instructions

• Rim your glass with lime juice and salt.
• Fill the glass with ice.
• Add tequila, lime juice, and cherry syrup.
• Top with cola and stir gently to mix.
• Add maraschino cherry and lime wheel for garnish.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh lime juice for the cleanest flavor bottled can taste off or too sour.
• For cherry syrup, go with something rich and smooth like the syrup from a jar of quality cherries, or make your own with equal parts cherry juice and sugar.
• Mexican-style cola like Jarritos or Coca-Cola made with cane sugar works great if you want a more natural taste.
• Chill your glass before serving to help keep the drink cold longer without over-diluting it.
• Don’t skip the stir blending the syrup with the lime and tequila helps keep everything balanced.

When to Serve

The Cherry Batanga is perfect for casual hangouts, game nights, or warm-weather get-togethers. It’s easy to make, great for batching, and has enough flavor to satisfy without being too strong. Serve it during backyard parties, BBQs, or anytime people want something sweet and fizzy with a kick. It also makes a good transition drink—light enough to start the night, but still full of flavor. Serve it cold over fresh ice and you’ll keep people coming back for another round.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• For tequila blanco, go with something smooth and clean. Espolòn, Olmeca Altos, and El Jimador all mix well and are easy to find. You don’t need anything fancy just avoid harsh or overly earthy options.
• For cola, stick with a version made with real sugar if possible. Mexican Coke or other cane-sugar sodas tend to mix better and taste less syrupy.
• Use a real maraschino cherry (like Luxardo) if you want a deeper flavor, or go classic with a bright red one for color and sweetness.
• Keep all ingredients cold for the best pour.

Similar Cocktails

• Cherry Long Island Iced Tea
• Galaxy Margarita
• Aperol Grapefruit Margarita
• Guava Aperol Margarita
• Hibiscus Paloma