Paul Kushner
Ranch Water is a crisp, no-fuss cocktail rooted in West Texas tradition. Made with just tequila, fresh lime juice, and sparkling water, it’s a light, refreshing drink perfect for warm weather or casual gatherings. The clean agave notes of blanco tequila pair beautifully with the bright acidity of lime, while sparkling water adds effervescence without sweetness. Served over ice in a tall glass and garnished with lime, Ranch Water is a simple, thirst-quenching cocktail that’s easy to make, easy to sip, and endlessly refreshing.
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Tasting Notes
Ranch Water is crisp, clean, and refreshingly straightforward. Blanco tequila brings bright agave flavor with subtle pepper and citrus notes, while fresh lime juice adds a lively tartness. Sparkling water lightens the drink, giving it an airy, effervescent texture that’s easy to sip. The flavor is balanced neither too sweet nor too sour making it a thirst-quenching choice on warm days. The lime wedge garnish enhances aroma and provides an extra citrus boost if desired. With its uncluttered ingredient list, this cocktail delivers pure refreshment and lets the tequila’s character shine, making it a go-to for those who appreciate simple, well-balanced drinks.
Equipment and Glassware
Making Ranch Water requires minimal equipment, fitting its unfussy style. A jigger ensures precise measurement of tequila and lime juice. A citrus juicer or handheld reamer is helpful for extracting fresh lime juice quickly. A long-handled bar spoon allows you to gently stir if needed, though the sparkling water does much of the mixing naturally. The drink is best served in a highball glass, which accommodates the ice and sparkling water comfortably while showing off the clear, refreshing look. A sharp paring knife is useful for slicing the lime wedge garnish neatly. No shaker or strainer is required for this recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 oz blanco tequila
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- Sparkling water (preferably Topo Chico)
- Garnish: lime wedge
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass two-thirds full with ice.
- Add tequila and lime juice.
- Top with sparkling water, leaving room for bubbles.
- Stir gently (optional).
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
Pro Tips
- Use a high-quality sparkling water like Topo Chico for better carbonation.
- Always use freshly squeezed lime juice for the cleanest flavor.
- Keep the sparkling water very cold to maintain fizz.
- Avoid over-stirring to preserve carbonation.
- Chill the glass before making the drink for longer-lasting coldness.
- Experiment with different garnishes, like a salted rim or citrus twist.
- Choose a blanco tequila that’s smooth and bright.
When to Serve
Ranch Water is perfect for hot summer days, casual outdoor gatherings, and backyard barbecues. Its refreshing nature makes it a great choice for poolside sipping or beach trips. The light body also pairs well with spicy foods, balancing heat without overpowering flavors. It works well as a pre-dinner drink thanks to its clean, crisp profile. The minimal ingredients make it ideal for quick preparation when entertaining guests, and its fizzy, citrusy finish ensures it remains a crowd-pleaser for relaxed occasions and warm-weather celebrations alike.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Blanco Tequila
- Patrón Silver
- Espolòn Blanco
- Don Julio Blanco
- Casamigos Blanco
- Herradura Silver
Similar Cocktails
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz blanco tequila
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- Sparkling water preferably Topo Chico
- Garnish: lime wedge
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass two-thirds full with ice.
- Add tequila and lime juice.
- Top with sparkling water, leaving room for bubbles.
- Stir gently (optional).
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use chilled sparkling water to keep the drink crisp.
- Adjust lime juice to taste for a more tart or mellow flavor.
- High-quality blanco tequila makes a noticeable difference in this simple cocktail.
