Mango Ranch Water

A sun-soaked twist on a West Texas favorite, this Mango Ranch Water layers ripe mango flavor with crisp tequila, lime, and sparkling bubbles. Light, tangy, and just sweet enough, it’s the kind of drink that keeps you reaching for another sip. The Tajín rim adds a subtle kick that balances the sweetness and wakes up your taste buds.

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Tasting Notes

Mango Ranch Water brings together sweet, tangy, and crisp elements for a cocktail that feels fresh and easygoing. The mango purée provides a smooth, fruity base, while lime juice adds a tart counterpoint. Tequila blanco cuts through the sweetness with clean, earthy notes, and the mango sparkling water keeps the finish light and fizzy. Tajín on the rim offers a burst of citrusy spice with every sip. The drink is well-balanced and refreshing, with a subtle kick from the tequila and just enough complexity from the layering of textures and temperatures to keep each sip interesting.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare Mango Ranch Water, you’ll need a few basic tools: a jigger for measuring liquids, a citrus juicer for fresh lime juice, and a bar spoon for stirring. A small dish will come in handy for rimming your glass with Tajín. While a blender or muddler isn’t necessary, a small spatula or spoon is useful for placing the mango purée at the base of the glass. Use a tall glass, such as a highball or Collins, to allow the sparkling water to mix freely with the other ingredients. Crushed or cubed ice works equally well in this drink.

Ingredients

• Tajín, for rimming the glass
• 2 oz mango purée
• 1.5 oz tequila blanco
• 0.5 oz lime juice
• 3 oz mango sparkling water
• Garnish: mango slice

Instructions

• Run a lime wedge around the rim of the glass, then dip it into a small plate of Tajín.
• Add the mango purée to the bottom of the glass and fill it with ice.
• Pour in the tequila and lime juice.
• Top with mango sparkling water.
• Stir gently to mix.
• Garnish with a fresh mango slice.

Pro Tips

• Use chilled mango purée to keep the drink cold longer.
• Freshly squeezed lime juice brings more flavor than bottled versions.
• For less sweetness, skip or reduce the simple syrup.
• Choose a tequila with clean, citrusy notes for better balance.
• Crushed ice helps layer the drink more cleanly and keeps it colder.
• Add a splash of club soda if your mango sparkling water is very sweet.
• Garnish with a lime wheel if mango isn’t available.
• Stir just enough to mix, not enough to dilute the drink.

When to Serve

Mango Ranch Water is perfect for hot days, casual gatherings, or any time you want something light and easygoing. It’s a great choice for afternoon drinks, summer barbecues, or as a tequila-based option at brunch. Because it’s low-effort and doesn’t require special tools or shaking, it’s ideal for relaxed settings like backyard hangouts or poolside lounging. The bright flavors also make it a fun way to kick off a taco night or serve alongside citrus-forward dishes. Whether served solo or as part of a larger lineup, it’s refreshing and simple enough to please a wide range of palates.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Tequila Blanco:
  • Espolòn: Bright, clean, and affordable
  • Olmeca Altos: Smooth with a bit of earthiness
  • Lalo: Light-bodied with citrus notes
• Mango Sparkling Water:
  • Spindrift Mango Orange: Natural mango flavor with a touch of citrus
  • LaCroix Mango: Subtle and unsweetened
  • Waterloo Mango: Stronger fruit flavor with no added sugar
• Simple Syrup (optional):
  • Homemade (1:1 sugar and water, boiled and cooled)
  • Liber & Co. or Stirrings for bottled options

Similar Cocktails

• Peach Ranch Water
• Rhubarb Margarita
• Spicy Mango Michelada
• Frozen Blackberry Jalapeño Margarita
• Spicy Strawberry Ranch Water