Get ready to check out the most detailed list of Mexican beverages you’ll ever find! This guide covers everything from traditional spirits and inventive cocktails to refreshing beers, unique wines, and a variety of non-alcoholic drinks, both hot and cold.
Whether you’re curious about Mexico’s famous tequila, eager to try a new mixed drink, or just looking for a delicious way to cool down, this list has something for everyone. Let’s take a look at the vast array of drinks Mexico has to offer. >>>
1.) Mexican Spirits
1.1.) Mexican Liquor
1. Tequila
- Agave-based spirit
Tequila, a renowned Mexican spirit, is distilled from the blue agave plant primarily in the area surrounding the city of Tequila, Jalisco. With flavors ranging from sweet and floral to earthy and complex, tequila is essential in cocktails like Margaritas and Palomas, making it a staple in Mexican culture and beyond.
2. Mezcal
- Smoky agave spirit
Mezcal stands out with its distinct smoky flavor, derived from the heart of the agave plant, or “piña,” which is cooked in pit ovens. This traditional spirit from Oaxaca offers a rich tapestry of taste, from herbal and earthy to sweet and fruity, showcasing the artisanal heritage of Mexican distillation.
3. Sotol
- Desert spoon distillate
Sotol, a lesser-known spirit outside of Mexico, is made from the Desert Spoon plant in northern Mexico. Its unique production process imparts flavors that range from grassy and herbal to citrus and pine, reflecting the terroir of the Chihuahuan Desert, making it a fascinating exploration for spirit enthusiasts.
4. Bacanora
- Agave Pacifica spirit
Bacanora, named after the town of Bacanora in Sonora, is an agave-based spirit that has been gaining popularity. With a history of clandestine production, this spirit offers a smooth, smoky flavor profile, similar to tequila and mezcal but with a unique character all its own.
5. Raicilla
- Jalisco’s artisanal spirit
Raicilla, once a local secret of Jalisco, has recently captured the attention of the global spirits community. Distilled from a variety of agave species, it offers a diverse palette of flavors, from fruity and floral to earthy and smoky, making it an exciting addition to the Mexican spirits family.
6. Charanda
- Sugarcane rum from Michoacán
Charanda, unique to the state of Michoacán, is a traditional Mexican rum made from sugarcane. Its name, derived from the local Purépecha language, signifies the red soil of the region, which contributes to the rum’s distinct, sweet flavor profile, often enjoyed in both sipping and mixed drinks.
7. Pox (Poxe)
- Traditional Mayan spirit
Pox, pronounced “posh,” is a traditional Mayan spirit from Chiapas, made from corn, sugarcane, and wheat. Revered in indigenous ceremonies, it offers a smooth, slightly sweet flavor, bridging the gap between cultural tradition and modern enjoyment in Mexican distillation.
8. Tuxca
- Jalisco and Colima’s mezcal
Tuxca, a regional spirit from the borders of Jalisco and Colima, is similar to mezcal but made from a different variety of agave. Its production process gives it a distinctive smoky flavor, combined with earthy undertones, showcasing the diverse agave spirit landscape of Mexico.
1.2.) Mexican Liqueurs
9. Rompope
- Eggnog-like cream liqueur
Rompope is Mexico’s answer to eggnog, a creamy, rich liqueur flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, and sometimes almonds. Originating from Puebla’s convents, it’s a festive favorite, enjoyed both as a sipper and a dessert ingredient, embodying the sweet traditions of Mexican celebrations.
10. Licor de Damiana
- Herbal and floral liqueur
Licor de Damiana is a herbal liqueur made from the damiana plant, known for its aromatic and purported aphrodisiac properties. This sweet, light liqueur features complex floral and herbal notes, making it a popular digestif in Mexico and a unique base for creative cocktails.
11. Licor de Almendra
- Sweet almond-flavored liqueur
Licor de Almendra is a sweet, almond-flavored liqueur cherished in Mexican cuisine for its rich, nutty essence. It’s a versatile ingredient in baking and cocktail making, adding depth and sweetness to a wide array of dishes and drinks with its warm, comforting almond notes.
12. Xtabentún
- Anise and honey liqueur
Xtabentún is a traditional Mayan liqueur from Yucatán, made by fermenting honey produced by bees feeding on the xtabentún flower, then blending it with anise. Its unique combination of sweet honey and licorice-like flavors makes it a delightful sipper or a cocktail enhancer.
13. Ancho Reyes
- Spicy chili-flavored liqueur
Ancho Reyes is a bold, spicy liqueur crafted from ancho chili peppers, offering a fiery twist to cocktails. Its robust, smoky-sweet flavor profile, with hints of cinnamon and cacao, makes it an adventurous addition to a variety of drinks, adding warmth and depth.
14. Crema de Tequila
- Creamy tequila-based liqueur
Crema de Tequila combines the smooth, agave-rich flavor of tequila with the creamy sweetness of dairy, resulting in a luscious liqueur. Perfect for sipping over ice or enhancing desserts, its creamy texture and tequila kick offer a unique take on traditional cream liqueurs.
2.) Mexican Cocktails & Mixed Alcoholic Drinks
2.1.) Mexican Cocktails & Mixed Drinks
2.1.1.) Tequila-based Cocktails
15. Margarita
- Classic citrus tequila cocktail
The Margarita is a quintessential Mexican cocktail, combining tequila with lime juice and orange liqueur, served in a salt-rimmed glass. Its perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and bitter flavors makes it a beloved choice worldwide, embodying the spirited heart of Mexican mixology.
16. Paloma
- Tequila mixed with grapefruit soda
The Paloma is a refreshing cocktail made with tequila and grapefruit soda, often enhanced with lime and salt. Its effervescent and tangy profile offers a lighter, zestier alternative to the Margarita, capturing the vibrant essence of Mexican cocktail culture.
17. Charro Negro
- Tequila, cola and lime
The Charro Negro combines tequila with cola and lime juice, creating a Mexican twist on the classic rum and cola. This simple yet flavorful drink is a popular choice in bars across Mexico, offering a refreshing and accessible way to enjoy tequila.
18. Bloody Maria
- Spicy tomato tequila cocktail
The Bloody Maria is a spicy and savory cocktail that swaps vodka for tequila in the traditional Bloody Mary, adding a Mexican twist with its robust flavors. Tomato juice, hot sauce, and a blend of spices create a rich, complex drink, perfect for brunch or an invigorating evening sip.
19. Mexican Mule
- Tequila twist on the classic Mule
The Mexican Mule is a refreshing cocktail that substitutes vodka with tequila in the classic Moscow Mule, mixed with ginger beer and lime juice. This variation adds a smooth, agave twist to the ginger and lime’s spicy-citrus profile, offering a lively and zesty cocktail experience.
20. Vampiro
- Savory tequila and tomato cocktail
The Vampiro is a savory cocktail made with tequila, tomato and orange juice, lime, and a spicy mix of sauces and chili. This rich and complex drink offers a depth of flavor, with a spicy kick that sets it apart from other Mexican cocktails.
2.1.2.) Beer-based Mixed Drinks
21. Michelada
- Spiced beer with lime
The Michelada is a beer-based cocktail seasoned with lime, salt, and a mix of sauces and spices, often served in a chilled, salt-rimmed glass. Its savory and tangy profile makes it a popular Mexican drink, ideal for hot days and social gatherings.
22. Chelada
- Beer served with lime
The Chelada is a minimalist beer cocktail, featuring beer with fresh lime juice and a salted rim. Its simplicity highlights the refreshing qualities of beer, making it a favorite for casual sipping in Mexico’s warm climate.
23. Tepache Michelada
- Fermented pineapple beer cocktail
Tepache Michelada blends the traditional fermented pineapple drink, Tepache, with beer, creating a uniquely Mexican cocktail. This combination offers a sweet, tangy, and slightly effervescent drink, bridging traditional flavors with modern cocktail culture.
24. Clamato con Cerveza
- Beer with tomato clam juice
Clamato con Cerveza mixes beer with Clamato (tomato and clam juice), lime, and spices for a savory cocktail experience. This drink is a staple in Mexican bars, offering a rich and hearty flavor profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
2.2.) Hot Mexican Alcoholic Beverages
25. Carajillo
- Coffee with sweet liqueur
The Carajillo is a popular Mexican drink combining coffee with Licor 43 or a similar sweet liqueur, often served over ice. This energizing cocktail marries the boldness of coffee with the aromatic sweetness of liqueur, making it a favored choice for a post-meal digestif.
26. Café de Olla con Piquete
- Spiced coffee with rum or tequila
Café de Olla con Piquete is a traditional Mexican spiced coffee, often spiked with rum or tequila. Infused with cinnamon and piloncillo (unrefined sugar), this warm beverage combines the comforting flavors of coffee with the boldness of spirits, perfect for chilly evenings.
27. Ponche con Piquete
- Fruity punch with tequila or mezcal
Ponche con Piquete is a fruit-laden hot punch, traditionally spiked with tequila or mezcal. Made with seasonal fruits and spices, this aromatic and warming drink is a staple at Mexican celebrations, especially during the winter holidays.
28. Chocolate Caliente con Piquete
- Spicy chocolate with a spirit
Mexican Hot Chocolate with Mezcal or Tequila blends the rich, spicy flavors of traditional Mexican chocolate with the smoky notes of mezcal or the smoothness of tequila. This indulgent drink is a festive treat, offering a warming and spirited twist on classic hot chocolate.
3.) Mexican Brewed & Fermented Beverages
3.1.) Mexican Beer
Mexican beer, a blend of traditional European techniques and local flavors, boasts a variety that includes light lagers, rich pilsners, and dark ales. Utilizing barley, corn, and unique ingredients, its production spans from historic breweries in Mexico City to artisanal producers in the coastal regions, reflecting a rich history intertwined with cultural identity, as well as innovative practices. Renowned globally, these beers are a testament to Mexico’s craft and heritage in brewing.
29. Popular Brands of Mexican Beer
When it comes to Mexican beer, a number of brands stand out due to their popularity, both domestically and internationally, including the following:
- Corona Extra
Undoubtedly one of the most recognizable Mexican beer brands globally, known for its light, refreshing taste and often served with a wedge of lime.
- Modelo Especial
A rich, full-flavored pilsner that has garnered a strong following for its robust taste and is often enjoyed with a slice of lime to enhance its flavor.
- Pacifico Clara
Originating from the Pacific coast of Mexico, this lager is favored for its crisp, clean taste and is a popular choice among beer enthusiasts looking for a refreshing drink.
- Tecate
Named after the city of Tecate in Baja California, this brand is known for its light, smooth lager that’s easy to drink and pairs well with a variety of foods.
- Dos Equis XX
Famous for its “Most Interesting Man in the World” campaign, Dos Equis offers a range of lagers that are well-liked for their balanced and approachable flavors.
- Sol
A light, refreshing lager that embodies the spirit of the Mexican sun, Sol is known for its easy-drinking quality and is often served chilled with a slice of lime.
- Bohemia
A bit more premium compared to the others, Bohemia is appreciated by those who prefer a more complex flavor profile in their beer, with varieties that include pilsners and darker vienna-style lagers.
- Indio
Known for its darker, more robust flavor, Indio is a popular choice for those who enjoy a beer with a bit more body and character.
- Montejo
A regional favorite from the Yucatan, Montejo is a lager that’s gaining popularity for its smooth, light taste and heritage dating back to 1900.
- Minerva
Minerva is a leading craft beer in Mexico, known for its artisanal approach and range of styles, from lagers to ales. Its commitment to quality and innovation has made it a favorite among beer aficionados looking for a taste of Mexican craftsmanship.
- Calavera
Calavera is a Mexican craft brewery that pushes the boundaries with its unique beer styles and bold flavors. From stouts to experimental ales, Calavera caters to those seeking a distinctive craft beer experience with a Mexican twist.
Each of these brands offers a unique taste experience that reflects the diversity and richness of Mexican beer culture. Whether you’re enjoying a casual get-together or a festive celebration, there’s a Mexican beer that’s perfect for every occasion.
3.2.) Mexican Wine
The Mexican wine industry dates back to the 16th century, with its roots in the Spanish colonial era. It is gaining international recognition for its quality and diversity, particularly from regions like Baja California’s Valle de Guadalupe. Embracing diverse grapes such as Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay, Mexican vintners combine traditional and modern techniques to craft wines that express the unique terroir.
Here’s a list of popular Mexican wine varieties and notable brands, each with a distinct character and flavor profile:
30. Red Mexican Wine
- Tempranillo: A key variety in Mexico’s wine repertoire, known for producing full-bodied reds with flavors of cherry, plum, and tomato, often aged in oak to add complexity.
- Monte Xanic: A leading brand for Tempranillo, known for its robust and elegant wines that showcase the varietal’s depth.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Widely planted and appreciated for its rich, intense flavor and aging potential, Mexican Cabernet Sauvignons often feature notes of black currant and spices.
- Casa Madero: The oldest winery in the Americas, offering premium Cabernet Sauvignon with exceptional depth and structure.
- Merlot: Offers a softer alternative to Cabernet Sauvignon, with plush textures and flavors of black cherry and herbs.
- Casa Madero 3V: A blend that often includes Merlot, offering a smooth, approachable wine with a balance of fruit and earthiness.
- Syrah: Known for producing powerful, spicy reds with a full body and notes of dark berries and pepper.
- Casa Grande: Produces a standout Syrah characterized by its intensity, complexity, and smooth finish.
- Nebbiolo: Although less common, Mexican Nebbiolo has gained attention for its intense color, bold tannins, and flavors of dark fruits and leather.
- Viñas de Garza: Known for crafting high-quality Nebbiolo wines that stand out for their sophistication and aging potential.
31. White Mexican Wine
- Chardonnay: This popular white grape variety thrives in Mexico’s varied climates, producing wines that range from crisp and mineral to rich and buttery.
- L.A. Cetto: Renowned for its Chardonnay, L.A. Cetto produces wines with a balance of fruitiness and complexity, often with a hint of oak.
- Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp and aromatic white variety is becoming increasingly popular, known for its fresh, grassy, and tropical fruit flavors.
- Monte Xanic Calixa: A line from Monte Xanic that includes a vibrant and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc, perfect for warm climates.
These varieties and brands represent just a glimpse of Mexico’s rich wine landscape, reflecting the country’s growing prowess and innovation in winemaking.
3.3.) Other Mexican Brewed & Fermented Drinks
32. Pulque
- Ancient milky agave ferment
Pulque is a traditional Mexican beverage made from the fermented sap of the agave plant. With a history dating back to the Mesoamerican era, this milky, slightly sour drink is experiencing a revival, celebrated for its cultural heritage and unique flavor profile.
33. Tepache
- Fermented pineapple brew
Tepache is a lightly fermented beverage made from pineapple, brown sugar, and spices. This refreshing drink, often sold by street vendors, embodies the resourcefulness of Mexican culinary traditions, turning simple ingredients into a delightful, effervescent concoction.
34. Colonche
- Cactus fruit fermented drink
Colonche is an indigenous Mexican beverage produced by fermenting the juice of prickly pear cacti. This regional drink, primarily found in the north-central parts of Mexico, offers a sweet, fruity flavor that connects drinkers to the ancient traditions of the land.
35. Comiteco
- Agave sap fermented spirit
Comiteco is a unique spirit from Comitán, Chiapas, made by fermenting the sap of the agave plant, offering a lighter alternative to tequila and mezcal. Its mild, sweet flavor profile is accented by subtle floral and fruity notes, making it a refreshing choice for spirit connoisseurs.
4.) Mexican Non-Alcoholic Drinks
4.1.) Cold Mexican Non-Alcoholic Beverages
36. Agua Fresca
- Fresh fruit-infused water
Agua Fresca is a refreshing blend of fresh fruit, water, and often a touch of sweetener. This light and hydrating drink comes in a variety of flavors like tamarindo, jamaica, and limón, making it a staple for cooling off and enjoying the natural sweetness of Mexico.
37. Tamarindo
- Tangy tamarind water
Tamarindo is a popular Agua Fresca made from tamarind pods. Its unique sweet and sour flavor profile is a favorite among those seeking a refreshing and tangy beverage, embodying the vibrant and diverse flavors of Mexican cuisine.
38. Jamaica
- Hibiscus flower iced tea
Jamaica is a brightly colored Agua Fresca made from dried hibiscus flowers. Known for its tart, cranberry-like flavor, it’s not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants, making it a healthy and refreshing choice.
39. Agua de Chía
- Chia seed infused water
Agua de Chía mixes chia seeds with water and lime juice, creating a hydrating and nutritious drink. The chia seeds add a unique texture and are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this beverage both healthful and refreshing.
40. Agua de Cebada
- Barley water
Agua de Cebada is a refreshing barley water drink, often flavored with lemon or lime. This grain-based beverage is a comforting and cooling option, offering a mild, sweet taste that’s perfect for quenching thirst.
41. Licuado
- Mexican fruit smoothie
Licuado is a Mexican-style smoothie, blending fresh fruit with milk or water, and sometimes honey or sugar. This nutritious and filling drink is a popular breakfast or snack choice, offering a delicious way to enjoy Mexico’s abundant fruit varieties.
42. Horchata
- Rice or nut-based milky drink
Horchata is a creamy, non-alcoholic drink made from rice, almonds, or other nuts, blended with cinnamon and sugar. This sweet and refreshing beverage is a favorite in Mexico, offering a cooling respite from the heat.
43. Fresca
- Grapefruit-flavored soda
Fresca is a popular grapefruit-flavored soft drink in Mexico, known for its crisp and refreshing taste. Its light and bubbly nature makes it a preferred choice for a quick thirst quencher or a mixer in non-alcoholic cocktails.
44. Sidral Mundet
- Apple-flavored soda
Sidral Mundet is a traditional apple-flavored soda in Mexico. Its sweet, fruity flavor and carbonation make it a beloved drink among all ages, serving as a festive and fizzy way to enjoy the taste of fresh apples.
45. Sangrita
- Spicy citrus chaser for tequila
Sangrita, traditionally served alongside tequila as a chaser, is a non-alcoholic blend of citrus juices, hot sauce, and spices. Its spicy and tangy flavor complements tequila, offering a balanced palate experience that highlights the spirit’s complexity.
4.2.) Hot Mexican Non-Alcoholic Beverages
46. Atole
- Thick cornmeal hot drink
Atole is a traditional Mexican hot beverage made from masa (corn dough), water, and often flavored with vanilla or chocolate (champurrado). This thick and comforting drink is a staple during Mexican festivals and cold months.
47. Posole
- Hominy corn hot drink
Posole, distinct from the homonymous soup, is a lesser-known warm beverage made from hominy corn, sweetened and flavored. This unique drink offers a glimpse into the ancient culinary traditions of Mexico, providing warmth and sustenance.
48. Tejate
- Traditional pre-Hispanic maize and cacao drink
Tejate is a traditional Oaxacan drink made from maize, cacao, mamey pit, and flor de cacao. This ancient beverage, often called “the drink of the gods,” offers a unique taste experience, blending nutty, floral, and chocolate flavors in a refreshing, frothy drink.
49. Café de Olla
- Spiced traditional coffee
Café de Olla is a traditional Mexican coffee brewed with cinnamon and piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar). This aromatic and warming drink is a staple in Mexican households, offering a unique twist on the classic morning coffee.
50. Chocolate Caliente
- Rich Mexican hot chocolate
Chocolate Caliente is a traditional Mexican hot chocolate, known for its rich and creamy texture, spiced with cinnamon and sometimes chili. This comforting drink is a testament to Mexico’s deep-rooted chocolate culture, perfect for sipping on cool evenings.