Did you know that Mexico is one of the richest countries when it comes to beverages? Beyond tequila, the country boasts a diverse array of typical drinks and flavors that delight tourists and locals alike. In this comprehensive article, we'll explore Mexico's most traditional drinks, their histories, ingredients, and curiosities. Get ready for a journey through Mexican flavor—complete with chili peppers, fruits, culture, and, of course, tequila!

Most Famous Mexican Drinks

Mexican drinks range from refreshing to spicy to intense. Here are the main ones:

Margarita

An absolute classic! Made with tequila, orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec), and lime juice, the Margarita is served with a salt rim and can be shaken with ice or served on the rocks. The frozen version is perfect for hot days.

Michelada

An unusual blend of beer, lime, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and sometimes even hot sauce, the Michelada is one of the most popular drinks among Mexicans on hot days and as an accompaniment to spicy snacks.

Paloma

Made with tequila and grapefruit soda, the Paloma is sweet and citrusy, perfect for those who prefer smooth drinks. It can be adapted with lemon soda and orange juice in Brazil.

Acachul

An artisanal fruit liqueur, typical of the state of Puebla. Made with wild cherries or a combination of blackberries, apples, and guavas. A true treasure trove of flavors from the Mexican land.

Tecuí

Similar to ponche, it's made with fruits like guava, pineapple, orange, raisins, and nuts. Traditional in the Toluca Valley, this drink is served hot, especially at parties.

Tepache

A low-alcohol fermented pineapple drink. Sweet, slightly carbonated, and traditionally sold at local markets and fairs.

Tequila: The Queen of Mexican Drinks

Tequila is made exclusively from blue agave and can only be produced in certain regions of Mexico, primarily Jalisco. There are five types: blanco, joven, reposado, añejo, and extra añejo—each with distinct aging times and flavors.

Mezcal and Pulque: Ancestral Heritage

Mezcal

Made with agave varieties other than blue, mezcal is smoked, artisanal, and may come with the famous maguey larva inside the bottle.

Pulque

An ancient drink fermented from agave juice. Thick, white, and nutritious, it was considered sacred by the Aztecs.

Mexican Non-Alcoholic Drinks

• Licuado: Fruit smoothie with milk or yogurt.
• Águas frescas: Water flavored with fruits and herbs.
• Sangrita: Accompaniment to tequila, made with tomato juice, orange and pepper.
• Atole: Hot corn-based drink, typical at festivities.

What Drink Goes with Mexican Food?

Margaritas and Palomas pair perfectly with nachos, tacos, and ceviches. The Michelada pairs perfectly with meat and chili dishes.

Tequila vs. Cachaça: What are the Differences?

Cachaça is made from sugarcane, while tequila comes from blue agave. Both are spirits, but they have different origins and regulations. In 2016, Mexico and Brazil signed a mutual recognition agreement, protecting designations of origin.

Tequila vs. Mezcal: Don't Get Them Mixed Up!

Mezcal can be made from up to 30 different types of agave, unlike tequila, which uses only blue agave. Mezcal is smokier and traditionally produced by hand.

Want a drink with a Mexican soul?

Quetzalli Tequila with Passion Fruit is made with silver tequila, natural passion fruit juice, and agave syrup—a refreshing tropical flavor for those looking to try something new. Try it now .

Conclusion

Mexican drinks go far beyond tequila. They tell stories, embody traditions, and invite you to a true cultural celebration. With so many options—alcoholic and non-alcoholic—it's easy to toast like a true Mexican, even here in Brazil. And with Quetzalli, this experience is even easier and more delicious!