Dark rum lovers, I bet you've never thought about swapping out your favourite rum for tequila. But stick with me, because in this Blog, I've got five simple cocktails that might just change your mind. There's no mixology at play here, the heck, there's not even any shaking of cocktails. These are drinks that you already love, just with a twist. And make sure you stick around for cocktail number five, because it might just become your favourite way to drink that particular cocktail.

The whole point of this video is because I often get questions from people who want to try other spirits, particularly tequila, but don't quite know where to start. So I've taken five of your favourite dark rum drinks that I know everyone loves and transformed them into tequila-based cocktails.

First up is the Batanga, tequila's answer to the Cuba Libre, featuring a salt rim that elevates the flavours of the cola. Next, we have the Mexican Mule, a delightful mix of tequila, ginger beer, and lime that rivals the classic Dark and Stormy. Then, we explore the El Diablo, which adds a fruity twist with blackberries or cassis.

As we continue, I introduce the Paloma, a refreshing grapefruit soda cocktail that is a staple in Mexico, and the Tequila Ricky, a simple yet delicious drink that can be customised with various mixers. Finally, I reveal the Tequila Old Fashioned, a sophisticated twist on the classic that will impress any cocktail enthusiast.

These cocktails are not just easy to make; they also offer a fantastic way to explore tequila without losing the essence of the drinks you already love. So, if you're a dark rum lover looking to expand your horizons, this video is for you. Dive in, try these cocktails, and let me know which one becomes your new favourite!

1. Batanga (Tequila & Coke – Rum & Coke Alternative)

• First up, the Batanga. This is literally tequila’s answer to a Cuba Libre. Tequila, Coke, and fresh lime. Simple, but the tequila adds a whole new depth of flavour. Plus, we’re using a salt rim instead of sugar. Let’s make it!

• Steps:

  • Rim a tall glass with salt

  • Add 50ml Tequila

  • Squeeze half a lime

  • Fill with Coke

  • Stir & enjoy

2. Mexican Mule (Tequila & Ginger Beer – Dark & Stormy Alternative)

• Next, we’ve got the Mexican Mule—if you love a Dark & Stormy, this is the one for you. Spicy, refreshing, and ridiculously easy to make.

• Steps:

  • Fill a glass with ice

  • 50ml Tequila

  • Squeeze half a lime

  • Top with Ginger Beer

  • Garnish with lime

3. El Diablo (Mexican Mule + Cassis Upgrade!)

• Now, if you want to take that Mexican Mule up a notch, let’s make an El Diablo! Same drink, but we’re adding crème de cassis—blackcurrant liqueur—to give it a fruity kick. This is a game changer.

• Steps:

  • Same as Mexican Mule above

  • Add 15ml Crème de Cassis

  • Stir & enjoy

4. Paloma (Grapefruit Magic – Refreshing Alternative to Rum & Pineapple)

• If you love rum & pineapple or fruity highballs, the Paloma is a must-try. It’s bright, refreshing, and criminally underrated. And nope, it’s not just tequila and grapefruit soda—there’s a little trick to making it pop.

• Steps:

  • 50ml Tequila

  • 10ml Lime Juice

  • Pinch of salt

  • Top with Grapefruit Soda

  • Stir & enjoy

5. Tequila Rickey (Light & Refreshing – Like a Mojito Without Mint!)

• Finally, we’ve got the Tequila Rickey. Think of this as a super simple, super refreshing tequila highball. If you like a Mojito but want something even cleaner and crisper, this is it.

• Steps:

  • Fill a highball glass with ice

  • Add 50ml Tequila

  • Squeeze in half a lime (about 15-20ml juice)

  • Add 10ml Simple Syrup (optional, but balances the drink)

  • Top with Soda Water

  • Stir and garnish with a lime wedge

6. Tequila Old Fashioned (The Wildcard – Whiskey & Rum Alternative)

• “Alright, I know an Old Fashioned isn’t a highball, but I HAD to include this. If you love a Rum Old Fashioned, try it with tequila—it’s a totally different vibe, but trust me, it works.”

• Steps:

  • 50ml Aged Tequila

  • 1 bar spoon Agave Syrup

  • 2 dashes Ms Betters Aromatic Bitters

  • Stir with ice & strain into a rocks glass

  • Garnish with orange peel