Last Updated on March 20, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Some people don’t want the burning sensation of tequila’s pure alcohol down their throats. So, they opt to add pleasure to their classic tequila shot in a contrasting flavor or texture with a good chaser for tequila to improve their overall experience.
Here are the best chasers for your tequila!
Table of Contents
ToggleTop Good Chaser For Tequila
1. Pulque
The first on the list for a good chaser for tequila is Pulque. It is from the agave plant’s fermented sap. It is extremely popular in Mexico but is relatively unknown in the United States. Some locals have attempted to incorporate this drink directly into tequila, mezcal, coconut water, guava, and other tropical tastes [1].
2. Michelada
Next is the Michelada, best drunk after a shot of reposado tequila. It is a Mexican drink made from lime juice, beer, sauces and spices, tomato juice, and chili peppers. It is best to serve cold in a salt-rimmed glass. You’ll probably crave more shots of this!
3. Bourbon
You can make a sophisticated and incredibly easy cocktail by combining high-quality tequila and a smooth bourbon whiskey. Bourbon is a double-distilled whiskey, which results in a mellow flavor that pairs nicely with tequila. And certainly, liquor may be blended with another liquor. Consider the following. The combo of bourbon whiskey and tequila!
4. Orange Slice Dusted with Cinnamon
After drinking a tequila shot, biting an orange slice dusted with cinnamon is a great way to balance the alcohol in your tequila. The orange provides the tequila a more palatable sweetness than the acidic flavor of other chasers like lemon-lime. The cinnamon adds a touch of warmth to the shot.
Add a slice of orange and a sprinkling of cinnamon powder near your final sip to enhance the tequila taste. As a result, the tequila’s smoky taste lingers rather than being destroyed as quickly as lemon-lime and salt.
5. Lime Rickey
When you think of tequila, you would instantly think of summer. You’ll see cool drinks and beverages that assist in alleviating the heat associated with those long and hot summer days.
A Jalapeno Cucumber Lime Rickey mocktail, created with cucumber (muddled), jalapeno-infused syrup, soda water, lime juice (fresh), and a mint garnish and cucumber wheel, is the ideal cocktail to accompany a shot of your favorite tequila, Casa Noble. Just serving it in a tall glass and with a lime wedge as a garnish can make your night a blast!
6. Vodka & OJ
Before taking your shot, mix your vodka and orange juice and drink the mixture to wash it down—something tasty yet reasonably priced, such as Milagro Silver, pairs well with this.
The silver tequila complements the orange juice without overwhelming it, letting it come through the citrusy and sweet taste. But can you really mix tequila and vodka?
7. Hard Cider
Hard cider is a fermented alcoholic beverage fruit juice, most often apples. The word “hard” is included in its name to differentiate it from its non-alcoholic equivalent, apple cider, which is created by pressing apples to extract the juice.
8. Chips & Salsa
As with chips like tacos, the mix of tastes and satisfying crunch of a large platter of chips are the ideal accompaniments to your tequila shots. The chips help absorb some of the great tequila.
When a shot of tequila is paired with chips and salsa, you get a hint of salt and tomato, which quickly dulls the harshness of the liquor. You can top or garnish it with whatever you like, and it’s easy to distribute if you’re feeding or drinking a large group.
9. Apple Juice
Apple juice is a wonderfully pleasant and fun way to chase down your tequila as long as you use natural, freshly squeezed apple juice. If you want to get the most out of it, your best pick is something rich and more aged, like a Reposado tequila. But apple juice also works well with Extra Añejo tequila.
10. Sangrita
A real Sangrita maintains its spicy bite and calls for a post-tequila chaser. It’s made with orange juice, grenadine, a dash of tomato juice, and two parts of spicy sauce.
Some recipes call for pomegranate juice, but no matter how you make it, Sangrita brings out the greatest qualities of tequila and leaves a smoother aftertaste on your tongue. To the uninitiated sipper, it may seem strange, but imagine a Bloody Mary mix without the horseradish and Tabasco.
11. Pickle Juice
Have you heard that you can mix pickle juice and tequila? After knocking down a shot, pickle brine is quite good in neutralizing the harsh taste of tequila. Pickle juice is an excellent, flavorful complement to various spirits, including tequila. So how many tequila shots will get you drunk?
12. Mezcal Negroni
Mezcal is a sort of agave-based alcohol. While tequila is a kind of mezcal, not all mezcal is tequila. This cocktail takes everything great about a Negroni and elevates it to new heights. Mezcal’s strong smokiness wonderfully complements the sweetness of vermouth and the sharpness of Campari [2].
Read: Dos Hombres Mezcal Review
13. Pickles
Although it may appear weird, the horrible burn of a cheap tequila shot may be quickly relieved by putting a crunchy pickle in your mouth. Pickles are a fantastic way to keep your electrolytes in check, and pickle brine is quite effective in neutralizing the harsh feeling of tequila.
14. Beer
In certain circumstances, mixing or drinking tequila with another alcohol is the greatest way to enjoy tequila more. Beer is a distinctive drink with an acquired taste profile, but if you’ve found the one you enjoy, it’s suitable for nearly every occasion.
Dark beer works well with an old expression like 1800 añejo tequila, whereas light beer goes well with lighter tequila. Mixed drinks like Ginger ale and Ginger beer are also the best chaser for tequila.
15. Lemonade
Not a fan of lime or lime wedge for tequila? Then, substitute lemonade for your tequila shot. It pairs well with Jose Cuervo Tequila, and their tequila expression makes an excellent shot.
The flavor and citrus notes of lemonade cut through any harsh tequila notes. The sweet flavor leaves a pleasant aftertaste, enabling you to focus on the tequila’s nuances rather than a throat burn. Lemonade is one of the extremely versatile chasers that can pair with almost any liquor like
16. More Tequila
Of course, the best chaser is another sip or shot glass of your premium tequila. However, it is still better to pair it with other drinks or make a cocktail. Mexican flag and margarita are one of the tasty cocktails you can make.
17. Cheese
While some may advise against mixing milk products with tequila—particularly cheap, liver-wrecking tequila—we have some good news. Hispanic cheeses such as Queso Fresco or Queso Blanco pair perfectly with Blanco tequila.
Since the cheeses are not matured, they have a fresh, somewhat mineral flavor and just enough milkiness to balance younger tequila’s acidity and alcohol content. Additionally, you may match cheeses with aged tequilas for a strong taste combination.
18. Tonic, Sparkling, or Seltzer Water
In your mouth, the fizz of tonic or seltzer water works wonders. Quinine or carbonation adds a little tang to strong liquors. Additionally, you may combine tequila with tonic, seltzer, or sparkling water to dilute the alcohol or create a delightful drink. Sparkling wine will also be good if you want more fizz in your mouth.
19. Salt & Lime
You’re probably familiar with the salt and lime chaser for tequila—the classic margarita. There is no way that it could ever go wrong. The salt helps to minimize the tequila’s burn.
Immediately consume a shot glass of tequila. Bite into and suck on a lime or lemon wedge immediately. The tangy fruit complements and intensifies the tequila’s flavor.
20. Grape Juice
Whatever camp you’re in, chasing your shot of tequila with citrus juice is one of the finest ways to balance off its unique flavor. It would be best to drink grapefruit juice, but you could also mix your tequila with pineapple juice, orange juice, and cranberry juice. Grapefruit soda is also a good chaser for tequila.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is tequila good with Sprite?
Yes, tequila is good with Sprite. A traditional margarita or tequila slammer drink proves that tequila and Sprite soda blend well together, especially when good tequila is used. Sodas like mountain dew and Sprite are best to pair with clear spirits for a smoother taste.
What neutralizes the taste of tequila?
Chasers neutralize or mask the flavor of your tequila. Soda, fruit juices, salt, or beer are some of the best chasers for tequila. It is better to have a chaser between shots to avoid the burning sensation of the alcohol. But is it okay to mix tequila and rum?
What chaser goes well with tequila?
Tequila is a versatile spirit that pairs well with various chasers, depending on personal preferences. Some popular chasers that complement the flavors of tequila include:
Citrus Fruits: Slices of lime or lemon are classic chasers for tequila. The tartness of citrus fruits helps balance the agave sweetness and cleanse the palate between sips.
Sangrita: This traditional Mexican chaser is a spicy and tangy fruit drink made with tomato juice, orange juice, lime juice, and chili peppers. It provides a flavorful contrast to the smoothness of tequila.
Salt: While not a traditional chaser, salt is often used to enhance the flavor of tequila shots. Lick a wedge of lime or lemon, dip it in salt, take the tequila shot, and then bite the lime or lemon to create a classic “tequila shot with salt and lime.”
Soda Water: Soda water or sparkling water can be used as a refreshing chaser for tequila. Its effervescence can help cleanse the palate and provide a light and bubbly contrast to the spirit.
Ginger Beer: Ginger beer offers a spicy and slightly sweet chaser option for tequila. The ginger flavor complements the agave notes of the tequila and adds a zesty kick to each sip.
Experimenting with different chasers allows you to find the combination that best suits your taste preferences and enhances your tequila-drinking experience.
Is soda a good chaser for tequila?
Soda water or sparkling water can be a good chaser for tequila, especially for those who prefer a lighter and more refreshing option. The effervescence of soda water helps cleanse the palate between sips of tequila, and its neutral flavor doesn’t overpower the delicate agave notes of the spirit.
Additionally, soda water provides a bubbly contrast to the smoothness of tequila, making it an enjoyable choice for sipping alongside the spirit.
How do you chase a shot of tequila?
Chasing a shot of tequila involves taking a sip of a chaser immediately after consuming the tequila shot. Here’s how to chase a shot of tequila:
Take the Tequila Shot: Hold the tequila shot glass, lick the back of your hand (usually between your thumb and index finger), pour a small amount of salt onto the licked area, and then take the tequila shot.
Chase with Chaser: Immediately after taking the tequila shot, take a sip of your chosen chaser, such as soda water, citrus juice, or sangrita. The chaser helps to balance the intensity of the tequila and cleanse the palate.
Enjoy the Flavors: Allow the flavors of the tequila and chaser to mingle on your palate. The combination of the two enhances the overall tasting experience and can vary depending on the chosen chaser.
What juice is good with tequila?
Tequila pairs well with various fruit juices, adding depth and complexity to cocktails. Some popular juices that complement the flavors of tequila include:
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is a classic choice for tequila cocktails like the Margarita. Its tartness balances the sweetness of the tequila and enhances the citrus notes.
Orange Juice: Orange juice adds a sweet and fruity element to tequila cocktails. It pairs well with both silver and gold tequilas, creating refreshing and vibrant drinks.
Grapefruit Juice: Grapefruit juice offers a tangy and slightly bitter flavor that complements the agave notes of tequila. It adds complexity to cocktails like the Paloma, a popular tequila-based drink.
Pineapple Juice: Pineapple juice provides a tropical sweetness to tequila cocktails. It works well with silver tequila and adds a refreshing twist to drinks like the Tequila Sunrise.
Experimenting with different fruit juices allows you to create a variety of tequila cocktails, each with its unique flavor profile.
What should I mix with tequila?
Tequila is a versatile spirit that can be mixed with various ingredients to create flavorful cocktails. Some popular mixers and ingredients that pair well with tequila include:
Triple Sec or Orange Liqueur: Triple sec or orange liqueur adds sweetness and citrus flavor to tequila cocktails like the Margarita and the Tequila Sunrise.
Agave Nectar: Agave nectar is a natural sweetener that enhances the agave notes of tequila-based drinks. It’s often used in cocktails like the Tommy’s Margarita.
Fresh Citrus: Freshly squeezed lime, lemon, and orange juices provide acidity and brightness to tequila cocktails, balancing the spirit’s flavors.
Soda Water or Tonic Water: Soda water or tonic water adds effervescence to tequila drinks, creating refreshing highballs and spritzers.
Fruit Juices: Various fruit juices like pineapple, grapefruit, and cranberry juice can be mixed with tequila to create fruity and tropical cocktails.
Herbs and Spices: Ingredients like fresh herbs (e.g., mint, basil) and spices (e.g., chili peppers, cinnamon) can add complexity and depth to tequila cocktails.
What not to mix with tequila?
While personal preferences vary, there are certain mixers and ingredients that may not pair well with tequila for everyone. Some combinations to approach with caution or avoid include:
Overly Sweet Mixers: Mixing tequila with excessively sweet ingredients, such as sugary sodas or overly sweetened fruit juices, may mask the nuanced flavors of the tequila and create a cloying taste.
Highly Acidic Mixers: Some highly acidic mixers, like sour mix or extremely tart citrus juices, can overpower the agave notes of tequila and may lead to an imbalanced flavor profile.
Too Many Ingredients: Overcomplicating tequila cocktails with too many ingredients can result in a muddled taste. It’s often better to keep the mix simple to allow the tequila’s natural flavors to shine.
Poor-Quality Mixers: Using low-quality or expired mixers can negatively impact the overall quality of the drink. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients to enhance the tequila experience.
Bitter Ingredients: While some bitterness can complement tequila, overly bitter ingredients or excessive use of bitters can clash with the spirit’s profile.
Experimenting with moderation and balance is key to finding the mixers that enhance rather than detract from the tequila’s flavors.
What do real tequila drinkers drink?
Real tequila drinkers, often enthusiasts who appreciate the nuances of the spirit, may enjoy tequila in various ways, including:
Sipping Neat or on the Rocks: Connoisseurs often prefer sipping high-quality tequila neat or over ice to fully experience the spirit’s complexities without the influence of mixers.
Tequila Cocktails: Classic tequila cocktails like the Margarita, Paloma, or Tequila Sunrise are popular choices among tequila enthusiasts. These cocktails showcase the versatility of tequila while preserving its distinctive character.
Tasting Flights: Some tequila aficionados explore different expressions and brands through tasting flights, allowing them to compare and appreciate the unique characteristics of each tequila.
Pairing with Food: Real tequila drinkers may savor their spirit alongside food pairings, discovering how tequila complements various culinary flavors.
Exploring Premium Brands: Enthusiasts often explore premium and artisanal tequila brands, appreciating the craftsmanship and quality associated with these spirits.
Ultimately, real tequila drinkers prioritize savoring the spirit’s complexities and exploring its diverse expressions.
What is the trick to drinking tequila?
The trick to drinking tequila is to approach it with respect, savor its flavors, and follow some best practices:
Choose Quality Tequila: Opt for high-quality tequila made from 100 percent agave, as it tends to have a smoother and more authentic taste.
Sip, Don’t Shoot: Instead of shooting tequila quickly, take small sips to appreciate its flavors. Allow the tequila to linger on your palate to fully experience its complexities.
Salt and Lime Optional: While some enjoy the traditional ritual of licking salt, taking a shot, and biting a lime, it’s not mandatory. Quality tequila can be savored without the need for these accompaniments.
Consider Room Temperature: Some tequila enthusiasts prefer drinking it at room temperature to fully experience its natural flavors. However, serving preferences vary, and some may enjoy it slightly chilled.
Pair with Food: Tequila can be enjoyed alongside food pairings to enhance the tasting experience. Consider pairing it with dishes that complement its flavors.
Experiment with Cocktails: Tequila is versatile and can be used in various cocktails. Experiment with classic recipes or create your own concoctions to find the perfect mix for your taste.
How do you drink tequila for beginners?
For beginners, here are some tips on how to approach drinking tequila:
Start with Quality Tequila: Begin with a good-quality tequila made from 100 percent agave to ensure a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
Sip Neat or on the Rocks: Try sipping tequila neat or over ice to appreciate its natural flavors without the influence of mixers.
Avoid Shooting: Instead of shooting tequila quickly, take small sips. This allows you to savor the flavors and aromas while acclimating your palate to the spirit.
Experiment with Cocktails: If sipping neat feels too intense initially, consider trying tequila in cocktails like the Margarita or Paloma. These drinks offer a balanced introduction to the spirit.
Lime and Salt are Optional: While some enjoy the ritual of licking salt, taking a shot, and biting a lime, it’s not necessary. Feel free to experiment with different serving styles to find what suits your taste.
Pair with Mild Flavors: If pairing tequila with food, start with mild flavors that won’t overpower the spirit. Consider pairing it with light snacks or dishes with complementary flavors.
Learn About Types of Tequila: Familiarize yourself with the different types of tequila, including blanco (silver), reposado, and añejo. Each type offers unique characteristics based on aging and production methods.
What is the most popular way to drink tequila?
The most popular way to drink tequila varies based on personal preferences and regional traditions. Some of the widely favored methods include:
Margarita: The Margarita is one of the most iconic tequila cocktails. It typically includes tequila, triple sec, and lime juice, served in a salt-rimmed glass.
Tequila Sunrise: This classic cocktail features tequila, orange juice, and grenadine, creating a visually appealing drink with layers of color resembling a sunrise.
Sipping Neat or on the Rocks: Many tequila enthusiasts prefer sipping high-quality tequila neat or over ice. This approach allows them to savor the spirit’s natural flavors without the influence of mixers.
Paloma: A popular Mexican cocktail, the Paloma combines tequila with grapefruit soda, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
Tequila Shots: Taking tequila shots is a social and celebratory way of enjoying the spirit. Some may accompany shots with salt and lime.
Good Chaser For Tequila
There are several methods to wash down a bad shot of tequila, including water, soda, fruit juice, or more unusual combos such as tomato and cheese. Apart from that, the top 20 chasers listed above pair nicely with your preferred tequila.
Therefore, have a chaser close at hand. You’re going to appreciate a night of tequila shots or sipping much more than you’re going to enjoy a night of tequila shots.
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