Move Over Aperol, This Summer We're Drinking Tequila Spritzes

This article is part of an Aperitivo Hour series, featuring sips and snacks for the warming weather, presented by Patrón Ahumado.

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Like the energetic song by The Champs, tequila is loved by many, enjoyed on repeat (or is that just me?), and will most likely get you on the dance floor. The Tequila Spritz is a great reminder of the versatility of this agave-derived spirit. Tequila isn't just for frozen margaritas or lime-laced shots—it has complexity, depth, and flavor notes that play well with an endless range of flavors. This spritz is what I would call a casual cocktail, too. It's far less intimidating to make than some other tipples and can be whipped up faster than you can crack the ice from your ice tray.

The basic formula is simple: A ratio of 1:1:2. Two ounces of tequila, 2 ounces of your favorite aperitif to flavor, and 4 to 6 ounces (or more, depending on your glass size) of bubbles—plus plenty of ice to top off your glass. Here in spritz country (population: me), eyeball measurements and garnishes are always welcome. For a pop of color, or to have a snack while sipping, a freshly cut wedge of grapefruit (or orange), a few sprigs of mint, or cucumber spears can add a dynamic complement to the bubbles. You can even salt your glass rim, a la margarita, for extra credit.

One thing of note is that these effervescent and riffable drinks are meant to be a complement to the tequila—no hiding it under sweet and slushy mixers. If you can, spring for something a little nicer and slightly higher-shelf, like a blanco. Other tequila varieties are fun to include too: reposado, añejo, and even mezcal. Each has a distinct flavor profile gained from its production, and aging process, and will lend its individual flavors to your finished drink. The proof can also be adjusted by switching out the aperitif (such as Campari), and bubbles (like Prosecco), for juices, flavored seltzers, or kombuchas to lower the overall Alcohol By Volume (ABV).

Here are some of my favorite versions:

Ode to Margarita:

In a tall glass, squeeze the juice of a few lime wedges and drop them to the bottom of the glass, add a pinch of kosher salt and fill with ice. Add 2 ounces blanco tequila and 1 to 2 ounces Rose’s Sweetened Lime Juice (depending on your inclination for sweet). Give a stir and top with club soda to finish.

Coconut & Pineapple Spritz:

In a tall glass filled with ice, add 2 ounces silver tequila and 4 ounces coconut water; top with 4 to 6 ounces pineapple kombucha. Garnish with a pineapple wedge.

Smoky Negroni-ish:

In a medium glass, add 2 ounces mezcal, 2 ounces red vermouth, and 2 ounces Campari. Fill with ice and top with club soda—orange flavored preferred. Garnish with an orange slice.

Spritz Old Fashioned:

In a medium glass, add 2 ounces añejo tequila and several dashes of orange bitters. Fill with ice and give a stir. Top with prosecco and garnish with an orange slice or two.

Rosso Spritz:

In a glass filled with ice, add 2 ounces blanco tequila and 4 ounces rosso vermouth. Stir and add 4 to 6 ounces tonic water.

Summer Storm Spritz:

In a tall glass, add 2 ounces tequila (blanco or añejo) and 2 ounces vermouth. Give a stir, fill the glass with ice, and top with ginger beer.

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What spritz will you be trying this summer? Let us know below!