Types of Beer Cocktails

Beer cocktails are a hit among patrons looking for a thirst-quenching beverage with a refreshing flavor that's light on the alcohol. From a business perspective, beer cocktails are also a profitable choice for bars and restaurants. They're economical to make and often require fewer ingredients compared to other cocktails, which helps to keep costs down and profit margins up. Ready to learn more about beer cocktails? We've made a list of some classic beer combinations that are easy to add to your menu.

1. Michelada

Michelada Beer Cocktail

Meet the Michelada (pronounced mee-chuh-LAH-duh), a blend of light beer, tomato juice, lime juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. It may look like a Bloody Mary, but this Mexican cocktail incorporates beer instead of vodka for a zesty and refreshing summer beverage. Serve the Michelada over ice, and don’t forget to rim the glass with Tajin seasoning for a flavor boost.

The Michelada is one of the most popular beer cocktails in Mexico. There are numerous versions of the recipe that incorporate ingredients like Clamato or Chamoy. Or try the pared-down Chelada, which is a simple yet delicious combo of just beer, lime juice, and salt.

2. Lagerita

Coronarita Lagerita Beer Cocktail

If you're a fan of both beer and margaritas, then the Lagerita might just become your new favorite drink. This beer cocktail combines the crispness of a lager with the refreshing flavors of a classic margarita, creating a delicious and innovative beverage that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail typically consists of light lager beer, tequila, lime juice, and a splash of orange liqueur, such as triple sec. The marriage of these ingredients results in a harmonious blend of beer and cocktail flavors that is both easy to drink and full of zesty citrus notes.

The Coronarita is a popular version of a Lagerita that is served with a bottle of beer inside a margarita glass. To make this beer cocktail, take a chilled beer glass and invert it into the margarita, allowing the beer to slowly flow into the glass. The result is a visually striking cocktail with the beer bottle perched upside down in the margarita, creating a unique and eye-catching presentation.

3. Monaco

Monaco Beer Cocktail

The Monaco beer cocktail hails from France, where it's mostly enjoyed by younger customers looking for a fruity, sweet drink. With the rising demand for lower ABV drinks, the Monaco can be enjoyed by anyone looking for a summer beverage that is light on the alcohol. This drink is traditionally made with Stella Artois, but you can use any lager or pilsner that you have on hand.

To make a Monaco beer cocktail, start with a chilled glass and add 1.5 ounces of grenadine, followed by 3.5 ounces of lemonade, and topped with 3.5 ounces of chilled beer. The crispness of the beer, the tartness of the lemonade, and the sweetness of the grenadine come together to create a well-balanced drink that is both refreshing and satisfying.

4. Spaghett

Spaghett Beer Cocktail

The Spaghett beer cocktail is a relatively new concoction, and despite its Italian name, it was invented by Baltimore bartender Reed Cahill. Inspired by the Aperol Spritz but with a working-class twist, this amber-colored drink is made with Miller High Life instead of Champagne. It's an easy drink to make and you don't even have to dirty a glass because it's traditionally served in the beer bottle.

To make a Spaghett, take a bottle of chilled Miller High Life and pour out 2 ounces of the beer. Add 1 ounce of Aperol or Campari to the bottle and finish it off with 1 ounce of fresh-squeezed lemon juice. If you want to reserve the extra beer that you poured out, save it for a Happy Hour appetizer recipe like beer cheese dip or beer-battered onion rings

5. Summer Shandy

Summer Shandy Beer Cocktail

Nothing beats a crisp, refreshing Shandy on a hot day, and making this beer cocktail is as simple as it gets. A traditional summer Shandy is made with equal parts lemonade and beer. Choose a light summer beer like a blonde lager or wheat beer and combine it with fresh-squeezed lemonade for an effervescent drink that is both sweet and citrusy.

You can get creative with your Shandy recipes and try other mixers like lemon-lime soda or sparkling lemonade. Use other juices like grapefruit juice and you've created a Radler, the German version of a Shandy. These beer cocktails have become so popular that you can find many canned versions from popular breweries that make it easier to serve your customers quickly.

6. Beertini

Beertini Beer Cocktail

The next beer cocktail on our list is a unique creation that's considered a Midwestern staple. A traditional Beertini must be made with a cheap domestic beer like Pabst Blue Ribbon - no craft beer allowed! Pour the beer into a chilled glass, add a handful of green olives, and top it off with a splash of olive brine. It's a humble combination, but the final product will surprise you.

Olives can magically transform other ingredients into something special, just like with a classic martini. Give this Midwest beer cocktail a chance and you'll find that it's fizzy, salty, and satisfying. It's also cost-effective and takes mere minutes to prepare.

7. Black Velvet

Black Velvet Beer Cocktail

The Black Velvet is a classic beer cocktail that blends the smoothness of stout beer with the effervescence of Champagne. This unlikely pairing creates a luxurious and velvety texture that is pleasing to sip. The drink's dark, rich appearance is reminiscent of black velvet fabric, which is where it gets its name.

To make a Black Velvet, fill a chilled glass halfway with Champagne or sparkling white wine. Top it off with Guinness or the stout beer of your choice. If you want to create a layered cocktail, carefully pour the stout over the back of a spoon into the glass. This creates a wider surface area so that the top layer of beer floats over the Champagne.

8. Snakebite

Snakebite Beer Cocktail

By this time, you've probably learned that beer can be combined with a wide range of ingredients to make a great cocktail. The Snakebite is no exception. This beer cocktail is made with equal parts hard cider and beer, usually a lager or stout, and is sometimes topped off with a splash of grenadine or blackcurrant liqueur. It's simple, easy to prepare, and goes down really easy on a hot day.

Some say that the Snakebite goes down a little too easily. This beer cocktail has a reputation for its drinkability, which can sometimes lead to over-imbibing. As long as you serve your guests responsibly, you'll have no issues with this tasty beer cocktail.

One of the key reasons that beer cocktails are becoming more popular is their low alcohol by volume (ABV) content, making them a lighter option for customers who want to enjoy a drink without getting too tipsy. Incorporating these drinks into your menu is also a smart decision because they're uncomplicated, which means your staff can make them quickly and serve more guests. They're made with cost-effective ingredients and can be a lucrative addition to your beverage lineup.

By Michale LeRoy
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  • Top 10 Styles of Beer

    Beer is one of the oldest and most widely consumed alcoholic beverages in the world, with over 9,000 craft breweries in the U.S. alone. Gaining an understanding of the different types of beer available can be the key to success if you’re planning to start your own brewery. From their unique flavor profiles and food pairings, we’ll break down the most popular beer types so you can make recommendations and create a beer list your customers will love. Shop All Brewery Equipment Click below to learn about the different types of beer: IPA Stout Porter Pilsner Wheat Beer Pale Ale German Bock Brown Ale Belgian-Style Ale Specialty Beer Cooking with Beer Ales vs Lagers There are two main categories of beer - ales and lagers. The difference between ales and lagers comes down to their temperature and fermenting yeast. Ales are brewed at warmer temperatures than lagers with top-fermenting yeast, typically between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit. This results in a faster fermentation process, which imparts a more complex flavor profile that can range from fruity and spicy to bitter and hoppy. Most craft beers will have ales as their base because of the rapid fermenting and ease of temperature control. Lagers are known for their crisp, clean taste and are typically brewed at cooler temperatures, around 45-55 degrees Fahrenheit, using bottom-fermenting yeast. Lagers are known for their smooth and refreshing qualities, making them popular choices for easy-drinking beers in the summer. While ales and lagers differ in brewing techniques and flavor profiles, both types of beer offer a wide range of options for consumers and businesses alike. ABV vs IBU ABV, or alcohol by volume, measures the alcohol content in beer and is expressed as a percentage. It indicates the strength of the beer and can range from 3% in light beers to over 10% in stronger brews. IBU, or International Bitterness Units, measures the bitterness of beer from hops and is a scale that typically ranges from 0 to 100 or more. The ABV and IBU of a beer can help determine its flavor profile and balance, with higher ABV beers often having more intense flavors and higher IBU beers being more bitter. Types of Beer When it comes to choosing the right beer for your establishment, it's essential to understand the various types available to cater to different preferences and occasions. From bold and hoppy IPAs to rich and creamy stouts, the world of beer offers a diverse array of options to suit every palate. We’ll explore the top 10 styles of beer to help you choose the ones that are best for your business. <iframe scrolling="no" width="392" height="226" src="/v/?num=12750&amp;width=600&amp;height=500&amp;embed=1" frameborder="0"></iframe> 1. IPA IPA, or India Pale Ale, is a popular beer style known for its bold hop flavors and aromas. This style originated in England in the 19th century and has since evolved into various subcategories, including American IPA, Double IPA, and New England IPA. One defining characteristic of IPAs is their high hop bitterness, which provides a distinct and often intense floral, citrus, or piney flavor profile. This bitterness is balanced by a strong malt backbone, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that appeals to many beer enthusiasts. American IPAs are typically more hop-forward than their English counterparts. These beers often have a higher alcohol content and a more pronounced bitterness, making them a favorite among craft beer aficionados looking for a bold and flavorful drinking experience. Double IPAs, also known as Imperial IPAs, have an even higher alcohol content and hop additions. This creates a more robust and complex flavor profile that can range from resinous and dank to tropical and fruity. New England IPAs are characterized by their hazy appearance and creamy mouthfeel. These beers are known for their low bitterness and intense hop aroma, perfect for those seeking a softer and more approachable IPA experience. IPA ABV: 5.0-14.0% IPA IBU: 30-100 Types of IPAs: American IPA, Imperial or Double IPA, English IPA IPA Brands: Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA, Russian River Brewing Company's Pliny the Elder, Goose Island India Pale Ale IPA Pairings: American cuisine, Indian cuisines, fish, sharp cheeses IPA Serving Temperature: 45-50 degrees Fahrenheit 2. Stout Stout is a dark, rich beer known for its robust flavors and creamy mouthfeel. Originating in the United Kingdom, stout has gained popularity worldwide for its distinctive color and smooth finish. Stouts feature mid-to-high alcohol levels and pair well with a variety of foods, including hearty dishes like roasted meats, stews, and rich desserts. One of the most well-known types of stout is Irish dry stout made popular by Guinness. This style is characterized by the visual cascading effect in the glass and its dry, roasted malt flavors with hints of coffee and chocolate. Another popular variation is the oatmeal stout. These are brewed with oats, which contribute to a smooth, silky mouthfeel. Oatmeal stouts have a rich, full-bodied flavor with notes of roasted coffee, chocolate, and sometimes a hint of sweetness. They are popular for their complexity and drinkability. Imperial stout, on the other hand, is a bold and intense variation of the stout style. This beer is characterized by its high alcohol content, rich malt flavors, and complex aromas. Imperial stouts often feature notes of dark fruits, roasted coffee, and bittersweet chocolate. Stout ABV: 3.8-8.9% Stout IBU: 20-60 Types of Stouts: Irish Dry Stout, Oatmeal Stout, American Imperial Stout Stout Brands: Guinness Draught, Troegs JavaHead Stout, Stoudts Fat Dog Imperial Stout Stout Pairings: Heavy foods like beef and stew, oysters, chocolate, brie cheese Stout Serving Temperature: 45-55 degrees Fahrenheit 3. Porter Porter is a dark and robust style of beer with a rich history dating back to the 18th century in England. Originally popular among the working class, this beer has since evolved into a beloved style among beer enthusiasts worldwide. Similar to stout, porter is characterized by its deep brown-to-black color. The way porter differs from stout is that it uses malted unroasted barley instead of unmalted roasted barley. This gives porter its complex flavor profile that often includes notes of caramel, toffee, and dark fruit, making it less intense than stout. American imperial porter is a bold and robust variation of the traditional porter style. Known for its higher alcohol content and intense flavors, this beer often features rich notes of roasted malt, chocolate, and coffee. English brown porter offers a more moderate take on the porter style, with a balanced flavor profile that showcases the beer's malt character, creating a smooth and easy-drinking experience. Robust porter strikes a harmonious balance between the two, with a medium-to-full body and a robust malt presence. This style is known for its smooth mouthfeel and well-rounded flavor profile. Porter ABV: 4.5-12.0% Porter IBU: 20-50 Types of Porters: American Imperial Porter, English Brown Porter, Robust Porter Porter Brands: Sierra Nevada Brewing Company Porter, Shipyard Longfellow Winter Ale, Smuttynose Robust Porter Porter Pairings: American cuisine, English cuisine, barbecue, tiramisu, asiago cheese Porter Serving Temperature: 40-55 degrees Fahrenheit 4. Pilsner Pilsners are light, crisp lagers with a clean, refreshing taste. They are known for their golden color and balanced bitterness. This style of beer became popular in what is now the Czech Republic and Germany. They are perfect for hot summer days or as a palate cleanser between courses. The classic American lager is a type of pilsner that is widely consumed in the United States. This beer is light-bodied, with a clean and crisp taste that makes it a go-to choice for many beer drinkers for celebrations like Mardi Gras. German Pilsner, also known as pils or pilsener, is characterized by its pale golden color, floral hop aroma, and balanced bitterness. German pilsners are traditionally brewed using noble hops, which give the beer a subtle yet complex flavor profile. Czech or Bohemian pilsner is another popular variation of pilsner known for its rich malt character, spicy hop aroma, and crisp finish. Czech pilsners are brewed using Saaz hops, which impart a distinctive herbal and earthy flavor to the beer. Pilsner ABV: 3.2-5.6% Pilsner IBU: 15-45 Types of Pilsners: American Lager, German Pilsner, Czech or Bohemian Pilsner Pilsner Brands: Budweiser, Troegs Sunshine Pils, Dogfish Head Piercing Pils Pilsner Pairings: German cuisine, spicy food, poultry, fish, spicy cheese Serving Temperature: 40-45 degrees Fahrenheit 5. Wheat Beer Wheat beer is a popular style of beer made by using wheat as the malt, giving the beer its signature refreshing and crisp taste. With its tangy flavors, brewers often add seasonal fruits to wheat beer to create an enticing presentation. American pale wheat beer is a light and easy-drinking beer that is brewed with a significant proportion of wheat in addition to barley. This style is known for its pale color, mild hop bitterness, and subtle wheat flavor, making it a popular choice for those looking for a refreshing and approachable beer. Berliner Weisse is a traditional German wheat beer that is known for its light body and high carbonation. This style is typically low in alcohol content and is often served with a flavored syrup, such as raspberry or woodruff, to balance out the sourness of the beer. Hefeweizen is a classic German wheat beer that is brewed with a large proportion of wheat and a distinctive yeast strain that produces flavors of banana and clove. Hefeweizens are known for their cloudy appearance, full body, and effervescent carbonation. This style of wheat beer is often unfiltered, allowing the yeast to remain in the beer and contribute to its unique flavor profile. Wheat Beer ABV: 2.8-5.6% Wheat Beer IBU: 3-35 Types of Wheat Beers: American Pale Wheat, Berliner Weisse, Hefeweizen Wheat Beer Brands: Blue Moon Summer Honey Wheat, Freetail Brewing Company Yo Soy Un Berliner, Magic Hat Circus Boy Wheat Beer Pairings: German cuisine, Mexican cuisine, spicy food, seafood, brick cheeses Wheat Beer Serving Temperature: 45-50 degrees Fahrenheit Back to Top 6. Pale Ale Pale ale is a popular beer style known for its balanced flavors, offering a mix of hoppy bitterness and malt sweetness. They are lower in alcohol content than IPAs and pair well with a wide range of dishes. American pale ale is a hop-forward beer with a moderate malt backbone. It typically features American hop varieties that impart citrus, pine, and floral notes to the brew. These ales are known for their refreshing bitterness and bright aromatics. Blonde ale is a lighter and more delicate version of pale ale, with a focus on crisp, clean flavors. They are characterized by their pale golden color and subtle malt sweetness. These beers are easy-drinking and versatile, making them a popular choice for those new to craft beer or looking for a lighter option. English pale ale is a classic beer style with a rich malt profile and earthy hop character. They often showcase traditional English hop varieties, which creates a balance between bitterness and biscuity malt flavors. Pale Ale ABV: 4.0-5.5% Pale Ale IBU: 15-45 Types of Pale Ales: American Pale Ale, Blonde Ale, English Pale Ale Pale Ale Brands: Smuttynose Shoals Pale Ale, Victory Brewing Company Summer Love, Flying Fish Extra Pale Ale Pale Ale Pairings: Italian cuisine, English cuisine, fish, fried foods, pepper jack cheese Pale Ale Serving Temperature: 35-45 degrees Fahrenheit 7. German Bock Bock beer is a traditional German style that has gained popularity worldwide for its rich malt character and robust flavors. They are higher in alcohol content and can range from pale to dark in color with notes of caramel and toast. This style is often enjoyed as a winter beer for its warming qualities and pairs well with rich and savory foods. Traditional bock is a strong lager known for its malty sweetness and deep amber-to-dark brown color. Weizenbock is a wheat bock beer that combines the characteristics of a traditional bock with the fruity and spicy notes of a wheat beer. It is known for its hazy appearance and complex flavor profile, which includes banana, clove, and bubblegum notes from the yeast strain used during fermentation. Maibock, also known as Helles bock, is a pale bock beer that is lighter in color and body compared to traditional bock. Maibock is brewed with a higher proportion of pale malts, giving it a clean and crisp profile with a noticeable malt sweetness. This style of bock beer is often brewed in the springtime and enjoyed during the month of May, making it the perfect addition to any beer garden. Bock ABV: 6.0-9.5% Bock IBU: 15-35 Types of Bock Beer: Traditional Bock, Weizenbock, Maibock Bock Beer Brands: Samuel Adams Winter Lager, Southern Tier Brewing Company Goat Boy, Capital Brewery Maibock Bock Beer Pairings: Italian cuisine, German cuisine, fish, shellfish, asiago, Swiss cheese Bock Beer Serving Temperature: 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit 8. Brown Ale Brown ale is a malt-forward beer with a deep amber-to-dark brown color and flavors of caramel, nuts, and toffee. This style is smooth and easy to drink, making it a great option for customers looking for a more approachable beer. English brown ale, also known as Northern English brown ale, is known for its malt-forward profile, showcasing toasty, biscuity, and caramel flavors with minimal hop bitterness. English brown ales are typically lower in alcohol content and have a lighter body compared to the American style, offering a smooth and easy drinking experience. American brown ale is a modern take on the traditional English brown ale, characterized by a balanced flavor profile that combines malty sweetness with moderate hop bitterness. This style typically features a medium body and a slightly higher alcohol content compared to its English counterpart. American brown ales often showcases notes of caramel, chocolate, and nutty flavors, making them a favorite among craft beer enthusiasts. Brown Ale ABV: 4.0-6.3% Brown Ale IBU: 15-45 Types of Brown Ale: English Brown Ale, American Brown Ale Brown Ale Brands: Newcastle Brown Ale, City Star Brewing Bandit Brown, Brooklyn Brewery Brown Ale Brown Ale Pairings: American cuisine, beef stew, red meat, poultry, gouda cheese Brown Ale Serving Temperature: 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit 9. Belgian Ale Belgian beers are known for their spiced fruity flavors and high alcohol content. Despite their high ABV, Belgians are usually low in bitterness. Belgian-style ale encompasses a wide range of styles, from fruity and spicy to complex and yeasty ales. These beers are often brewed with unique yeast strains, resulting in distinctive flavors, aromas, and high carbonation. Belgian pale ale is a style known for its balanced maltiness and hop bitterness. It typically features fruity esters and spicy notes, with a moderate alcohol content. Belgian tripel is a strong ale with a higher alcohol content compared to other Belgian styles. It is characterized by its pale color, complex malt profile with a dry finish, and effervescent carbonation. Belgian saison, also known as farmhouse ale, is a rustic beer style that originated in the French-speaking region of Belgium. Traditionally brewed in the winter months for consumption in the summer, saisons are known for their fruity and peppery yeast character and dry finish. Belgian Ale ABV: 4.4-10% Belgian Ale IBU: 20-50 Types of Belgian Ale: Belgian Pale Ale, Belgian Tripel, Belgian Saison Belgian Ale Brands: Samuel Adams Belgian Session, Weyerbacher Merry Monks, Victory Brewing Company Helios Belgian Ale Pairings: American cuisine, Asian cuisine, pasta dishes, barbecue, meat, Limburger cheese Belgian Ale Serving Temperature: 45-55 degrees Fahrenheit 10. Specialty Beer Specialty beers offer unique and diverse options for beer enthusiasts, catering to a range of tastes and preferences. From experimental brews to niche flavors, there is a specialty beer for every palate. These beers can range from barrel-aged beers to sour ales, from fruit-infused beers to spiced variations, offering customers a chance to try something new and exciting. Sour ales are a distinctive type of beer known for their tart and acidic flavors. These beers are fermented with specific strains of yeast and bacteria, resulting in a sour and tangy taste profile that sets them apart from traditional ales. Another specialty beer is gluten-free beer. They are brewed using alternative grains such as sorghum, millet, or rice to create a beer that is safe for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Spruce up your beer menu with crowd-pleasing flavors of beer that you can rotate throughout the seasons. Pumpkin beer is a seasonal favorite that typically makes its appearance during the fall months. Brewed with pumpkin puree and a blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, pumpkin beer offers a festive and flavorful twist on traditional beer styles. Chocolate beer is a decadent and indulgent option for those with a sweet tooth. Brewed with chocolate malt or actual cocoa nibs, these beers offer a rich and velvety flavor profile that is reminiscent of a chocolate dessert, perfect for Valentine’s Day. Whether you're looking to explore new flavor profiles or indulge in a seasonal favorite, specialty beers offer a diverse and exciting range of options for beer enthusiasts to enjoy. Specialty Beer ABV: 3-10% or over Specialty Beer IBU: Varies Types of Specialty Beer: Sour Ales, Gluten Free Beer, Farmhouse Ales, Experimental Brews Specialty Beer Brands: Dogfish Head Beer SeaQuench Ale Session Sour, Wicked Weed Brewing Gluten FREEk, Elysian Brewing Company Night Owl Pumpkin Ale, Yuengling Hershey’s Chocolate Porter Specialty Beer Pairings: Varies Specialty Beer Serving Temperature: Varies Cooking with Beer Beer is a versatile ingredient that can add depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes, from soups and stews to desserts and dressings. When used in cooking, beer can impart unique flavors, enhancing the overall taste profile and texture. Here are just some beers you can use in the kitchen: IPA: IPAs are characterized by their hoppy bitterness and floral aromas, making them a bold choice for marinating meats or adding to cheese sauces. The intense flavors of IPAs can infuse dishes with a complex and aromatic profile, making them a popular choice for battered beer fish or shrimp. Wheat Beer: Wheat beers have a light and citrusy profile that is perfect for cooking seafood or incorporating into salad dressings. The bright and refreshing notes of wheat beers can add a subtle tanginess to dishes, enhancing the overall taste experience. Stout: Stout beers are known for their bold roasted malt flavors which are excellent for braising meats or adding depth to chocolate desserts. The rich and complex flavors of stouts can elevate dishes like beef stew or chocolate cake, creating a decadent and satisfying meal. When cooking with beer, it is important to consider the alcohol content and flavor profile of the beer to ensure it complements the other ingredients in the dish. Experimenting with different types of beer can help you discover new and exciting ways to enhance your culinary creations with the diverse flavors of this beloved beverage. Back to Top From popular lagers and ales to unique stouts and porters, there is a wide range of beer types to help you cater to your customer preferences. By knowing the characteristics and flavors of each type of beer, you’ll be able to enhance your beverage menu and provide a memorable experience for your patrons. Once you have narrowed down your options, pair your menu with the right beer glasses for each beer type.

  • Bloody Mary Mix Recipe

    The difference between an average Bloody Mary and a great one usually comes down to the mix (and maybe the creative garnishes). Many brunch-goers are looking for the best Bloody Mary in town, and they will pay extra for a truly delicious cocktail. Making your own mix gives you complete control over the ingredients, ensuring a fresh and high-quality product. With homemade Bloody Mary mix, you can create a unique and customizable flavor profile that sets your establishment apart from the competition. How to Make Bloody Mary Mix Learn how to make your own Bloody Mary mix by watching our quick video: <iframe itemprop="embedURL" width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pM6THFUVc3A?si=91bK5oo4ax7tOvZi?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> Homemade Bloody Mary Mix To get started with this recipe, you'll need a juicer that works with tomatoes. We recommend the AvaMix JE700 continuous feed juicer because it's suitable for making large batches of juice in busy establishments. It separates the pulp, seeds, and skin from the tomato juice so you're left with a smooth product. If you don't have a commercial juicer, you can puree the tomatoes in a food processor or blender, but you'll need to remove the solids with a strainer. Approximate Yield: (8) 4-ounce servings Ingredients 3 pounds ripe tomatoes 1/4 cup pickle juice 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 1 Tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste) 2 Tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 teaspoon celery salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon horseradish (optional) 4 1/2 ounces vodka (per cocktail) Directions Start by washing tomatoes and removing stems Cut into quarters or smaller pieces Add tomatoes to juicer chute (should yield about 1 quart of juice) Mix remaining ingredients into tomato juice (use blender if desired) Transfer Bloody Mary mix to large pitcher and chill for at least one hour before serving When you're ready to serve, fill a highball glass with ice, add 1 1/2 ounces of vodka, and top it off with 4 ounces of Bloody Mary mix. Give it a good stir, and garnish with celery stalks, olives, pickles, or any other garnishes you prefer. By mixing up your own blend of tomato juice, spices, and other flavorful ingredients, you have the freedom to customize the taste and intensity of your Bloody Mary cocktails. Plus, making your own mix allows you to control the quality and freshness of the ingredients, ensuring a superior drinking experience for your patrons. Whether you like it spicy, tangy, or with a unique twist, crafting your own homemade mix is a simple and cost-effective way to elevate your cocktail menu and impress your guests.

  • Different Types of Tequila

    Tequila, the beloved spirit from Mexico, comes in various forms that cater to different preferences and occasions. From blanco to anejo, each type offers a unique flavor profile and aging process that sets it apart. Whether you're sipping it neat, mixing up a margarita, or hosting a tequila tasting, understanding the different types of tequila can enhance your customers’ drinking experience and help you expand your bar menu. What Is Tequila Made From? Tequila is distilled from the blue agave plant, a succulent native to Mexico. The heart of the agave plant (the pina) is harvested and roasted to extract its juices, which are then fermented and distilled to create the iconic spirit. The distinct taste of tequila is influenced by the agave plant's sugars and terroir, making it a versatile ingredient in cocktails and a popular choice for sipping neat or on the rocks. Tequila vs Mezcal Tequila is a type of mezcal made specifically from the Weber blue agave plant in designated regions of Mexico, while mezcal can be produced from various agave species across different regions. Tequila is typically smoother and has a more defined taste profile, making it ideal for cocktails, while Mezcal offers a smokier, earthier flavor profile that appeals to those seeking more complex drinks, like spicy grapefruit mezcal margaritas. Both spirits have their unique characteristics, catering to different preferences and applications in the world of mixology and beyond. Tequila Types When it comes to tequila, there are several types to choose from, each offering a unique flavor profile and production process. The five types of tequila include blanco, gold, reposado, anejo, and extra anejo. Cristalino tequila is an unofficial sixth type of tequila. We explore their differences below to help you make the best decision for your business: 1. Blanco Tequila Blanco tequila, also known as silver tequila, plata tequila, or white tequila, is a clear spirit that is unaged and bottled immediately after distillation without the influence of oak aging. Made from 100% blue agave, it is the purest form of tequila, allowing the true flavors of the agave plant to shine through. To be classified as blanco tequila, the spirit must undergo a strict production process in Mexico through the Consejo Regulador del Tequila (CRT). This ensures that each bottle of blanco tequila maintains the quality and authenticity that tequila lovers expect. Blanco tequila is often preferred for cocktails due to its crisp, clean taste and versatility in mixing. Whether you're sipping it neat or using it as the base for a refreshing margarita, blanco tequila is a staple in any bar or restaurant looking to elevate its cocktail game. Blanco Tequila Age: Less than two months, stored in bottles Blanco Tequila Flavor: Crisp with notes of citrus, pepper, and herbs, with a harsh finish Blanco Tequila Drinks: Margaritas and palomas Tequila Plata vs Blanco Tequila plata, also known as silver tequila, is the same as blanco tequila. It is an unaged and clear tequila with a crisp and clean flavor. Blanco tequila can be aged for up to two months in glass or stainless steel tanks. 2. Gold Tequila Gold tequila, also known as joven or oro tequila, is typically a mixto tequila, meaning it is made from a combination of young blanco tequila and aged tequila to cut the sharpness. Sugars other than pure blue agave, such as cane sugar, are often added to the blend. Gold tequila is often aged in oak barrels or infused with flavorings to achieve its golden hue. This aging process imparts a smooth and slightly sweet taste to the tequila. Whether you're making margaritas, Tequila Sunrises, or simply enjoying shots with friends, gold tequila adds a touch of warmth and richness to any beverage. Gold Tequila Age: Varies, blend of differently aged tequilas, often stored in oak barrels Gold Tequila Flavor: Smooth and slightly sweet, flavor varies with the blend Gold Tequila Drinks: As a shot, sipped neat, in Tequila Sunrises, and margaritas Gold vs Silver Tequila The difference between gold and silver tequila (or blanco tequila) is the color and aging process. Gold tequila gets its color from non-agave sugars or other aged tequilas. It is often a mixto tequila, meaning it contains at least 51% agave sugars along with other sugars to give it a smooth finish. Silver tequila is 100% agave and has a pure agave flavor without any added colors or ingredients. 3. Reposado Tequila Reposado tequila, also known as aged or rested tequila, is a popular choice among tequila enthusiasts for its unique flavor profile and smooth finish. This type of tequila is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two months and up to one year, giving it a distinct golden hue and a complex taste. During the aging process, reposado tequila absorbs flavors from the oak barrels, resulting in notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. This creates a well-balanced spirit that is perfect for sipping neat or as the base for cocktails like margaritas and palomas. Reposado Tequila Age: 2-12 months, stored in oak barrels Reposado Tequila Flavor: Oaky flavor with notes of vanilla, caramel, and a smooth finish Reposado Tequila Drinks: As a shot, neat or on the rocks, in palomas, and Tequila Manhattans Reposado vs Blanco Tequila The distinct difference between reposado tequila and blanco tequila is how long they are aged. Reposado tequila is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two months but less than a year, giving it a smooth and slightly woody flavor profile. Blanco tequila is unaged and offers a fresh and crisp taste without the influence of oak aging. Gold Tequila vs Reposado Gold tequila is a mixto tequila with added colors, flavors, and tequila blends of different ages. Reposado tequila undergoes a brief aging process in oak barrels, resulting in a more nuanced flavor profile with hints of oak and caramel. It is not blended with other tequila types. 4. Anejo Tequila Anejo tequila, or extra aged tequila, is known for its sophisticated flavor profile, making it a favorite choice for sipping neat or crafting premium cocktails. To be classified as Anejo tequila, the spirit must be aged in oak barrels (usually ex-whiskey barrels) for a minimum of one year but less than three years. It is stored in 600-liter batches per barrel which gives the tequila room to interact with the oak and develop a deep golden color and complex flavor profile, often with hints of dried fruit, spice, and honey. Whether enjoyed on its own or mixed into a cocktail, Anejo tequila offers a luxurious drinking experience that is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Anejo Tequila Age: 1-3 years, stored in 600-liter batches in oak barrels Anejo Tequila Flavor: Notes of oak, vanilla, honey, dried fruits, and spices Anejo Tequila Drinks: Neat or on the rocks, in an Anejo Old Fashioned, and Anejo Highballs, or as a replacement for whiskey in cocktails Anejo vs Blanco Tequila Blanco tequila is unaged and offers a pure agave flavor with a clean finish. Anejo tequila, on the other hand, is aged for a minimum of one year but less than three years in oak barrels, resulting in a smooth and complex flavor profile with notes of vanilla and spice. While blanco tequila is clear, while anejo tequila has gold to amber hues. Reposado vs Anejo Reposado tequila is aged for a minimum of two months but less than a year, while anejo tequila is aged for one to three years. Anejo tequila tends to have a richer and more complex flavor profile compared to reposado, thanks to the longer aging process. Reposado tequila is usually light gold, whereas anejo tequila is typically light amber. 5. Extra Anejo Tequila Extra anejo tequila is a premium variety of tequila, highly sought after for its rich flavor profile, strong aroma, and smooth finish. The tequila must be aged for a minimum of three years in oak barrels, giving it a dark amber color and a complex flavor profile similar to types of whiskey and cognac. This process helps to mellow out the harshness of the alcohol, resulting in a tequila that is incredibly smooth on the palate with a velvety texture. Extra anejo tequila develops rich notes of oak, chocolate, and caramel, creating a luxurious drinking experience perfect for tasting rooms. It is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks to fully appreciate its nuanced flavors. Extra Anejo Tequila Age: Minimum of 3 years, aged in oak barrels before being bottled Extra Anejo Tequila Flavor: Smooth, velvety texture, with notes of oak, chocolate, and caramel Extra Anejo Tequila Drinks: Neat, on the rocks, in extra anejo spicy margaritas, and Extra Anejo Manhattans Anejo Tequila vs Extra Anejo Tequila The difference between anejo and extra anejo tequila is their aging time. Anejo tequila is aged for a minimum of one year to three years, while extra anejo tequila is aged for a minimum of three years and beyond. While anejo is a light amber, extra anejo can be a dark amber, close to the color of cognac. Extra anejo tequila offers a rich and luxurious flavor profile with deep oak notes and a smooth finish, making it an upscale choice for tequila connoisseurs. 6. Cristalino Tequila Cristalino tequila is not yet standardized by the Consejo Regulador del Tequila (CRT), meaning it is not considered an official type of tequila. This unique variation of tequila is worth mentioning, as it offers a fresh take on the traditional spirit, combining the smoothness of aged tequila with the clarity of a blanco. Cristalino Tequila undergoes a charcoal-filtration process that removes the color, tannins, and any impurities, resulting in a clear appearance. Despite its crystal-clear hue, this tequila still boasts the complex flavors and aromas that come from aging in oak barrels. Its refined taste and versatile nature make it a popular choice for mixing in cocktails, sipping neat, or in VIP clubs that offer bottle service. Cristalino Tequila Age: Varies based on the type of tequila that is charcoal-filtered Cristalino Tequila Flavor: Mild oakiness with crisp, bright notes of blanco tequila Cristalino Tequila Drinks: Sipped neat, on the rocks, in high-end margaritas and palomas From the vibrant and versatile blanco to the rich and complex extra anejo, each type of tequila offers unique flavors and characteristics that can elevate any cocktail or bar menu. Whether you're an emerging bartender looking to craft the perfect margarita or a chef experimenting with new flavors, knowing the distinctions between tequila varieties will help you create unforgettable experiences for your customers.