Tequila Mockingbird

The Tequila Mockingbird is a simple yet striking cocktail that combines the earthy notes of tequila with the cool, sharp flavor of crème de menthe and the bright acidity of fresh lime juice. It is a variation on the classic sour formula, offering a unique mint-forward profile that is both refreshing and invigorating. Its distinctive color and clever name make it a memorable choice for any occasion, standing out from more common tequila drinks.
Tequila Mockingbird

Preparation

Preparation time: 3 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

The Tequila Mockingbird is a shaken cocktail that falls into the Modern Classic category. Originating in the mid-20th century, it is a creative variation of the sour family of drinks, defined by a spirit, citrus, and a sweetener.

Serving

This is a moderately strong cocktail served 'up' (chilled, without ice) in a pre-chilled coupe or cocktail glass for a crisp, elegant presentation.
Serving size
Approximately 100 ml / 3.5 oz
Alcohol content
Approximately 20-25% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Coupe
Glass treatment
Chilled

Backstory

While its exact origin is debated, the Tequila Mockingbird's name is a clear and witty play on Harper Lee's 1960 novel, "To Kill a Mockingbird." The cocktail likely emerged shortly after the book's publication, capitalizing on its cultural significance. It embodies the creative and often pun-driven naming conventions of mid-century American cocktails.
Origin
United States, likely created in the 1960s.

Tequila Mockingbird

The drink is primarily known as the Tequila Mockingbird, a clear pun on the famous novel "To Kill a Mockingbird." It is occasionally referred to simply as the Mockingbird Cocktail, though this is less common.
Original name
Tequila Mockingbird
Alternative name
Mockingbird Cocktail

Characteristics overview

A bright and refreshing cocktail, dominated by a mint and lime aroma with a distinctly tart, slightly sweet flavor profile. It has a smooth texture and a clean, crisp finish, making it an ideal summer drink.
Flavor
Minty, tart, citrusy, agave, herbal
Aroma
Fresh mint, lime zest, tequila
Taste balance
Sour, sweet
Aftertaste
Clean, minty, short
Fizziness
Still
Color appearance
Light green, clear
Texture
Smooth, crisp, light-bodied
Seasonality
Refreshing, summery

Flavor intensity & Experience

The flavor is intensely sour and fruity from the lime, balanced by moderate sweetness from the liqueur and a distinct alcoholic punch from the tequila. It is not at all salty, bitter, spicy, or creamy.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

You will need three key ingredients: a good quality blanco tequila, green crème de menthe for that classic minty flavor and color, and freshly squeezed lime juice for essential tartness.
  • Blanco Tequila45 ml / 1.5 oz
    A 100% agave blanco tequila is recommended for a clean, crisp flavor.
  • Green Crème de Menthe22.5 ml / 0.75 oz
    Provides mint flavor and the characteristic green color. White crème de menthe can be substituted for a less vibrant look.
  • Fresh Lime Juice22.5 ml / 0.75 oz
    Freshly squeezed is essential for the best taste.

Ice type

  • Cubed ice for shaking.

Mixing equipments

Standard cocktail shaking equipment is required, including a shaker, jigger, and a double-straining setup to ensure a smooth, ice-free texture.
  • Cocktail shaker for chilling and combining ingredients.
  • Jigger for accurate measuring.
  • Hawthorne strainer and a fine mesh strainer for double straining.
  • Citrus juicer for extracting fresh lime juice.

Instructions

The process is straightforward: chill a glass, add all liquid ingredients to an ice-filled shaker, shake until very cold, and double strain into the prepared glass before garnishing.
1. Chill your coupe or cocktail glass by filling it with ice or placing it in the freezer for a few minutes.
2. Combine the blanco tequila, green crème de menthe, and fresh lime juice in a cocktail shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with cubed ice until it's about two-thirds full.
4. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker is frosty cold.
5. Discard the ice from your chilled glass.
6. Double strain the contents of the shaker through a Hawthorne strainer and a fine mesh strainer into the chilled glass.
7. Garnish with a lime wheel or a sprig of fresh mint and serve immediately.

Garnishing

A simple lime wheel is a classic garnish that complements the drink's ingredients. Alternatively, a fresh mint sprig can be used to enhance the minty aroma.
  • Lime wheel placed on the rim of the glass.
  • Fresh mint sprig, gently clapped between hands to release oils before placing on the rim.

Dietary Information

This cocktail is naturally free from common allergens such as dairy, eggs, nuts, soy, and gluten. It is suitable for both vegan and vegetarian diets, assuming no animal products were used in the filtration of the spirits.
✓ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

This cocktail has a moderate calorie count, primarily from the alcohol and the sugar in the crème de menthe. The carbohydrate and sugar content are relatively low compared to more fruit-heavy or cream-based drinks.
Calories
Approximately 180-210 kcal / 750-880 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Approximately 10-13 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Approximately 9-12 g
Sugar level

Occasions

This cocktail's refreshing nature makes it perfect for summer parties, poolside lounging, and warm evenings. It serves as an excellent aperitif or a conversation-starting choice for a literary-themed cocktail hour.
  • Summer party
  • Cocktail hour
  • Themed event
  • Pre-dinner drink

Pairing suggestions

The tart and minty profile of the Tequila Mockingbird pairs exceptionally well with spicy and salty foods. It effectively cuts through the richness of fried appetizers and complements the bright, acidic flavors of seafood dishes like ceviche, making it a versatile choice for an appetizer course.
  • Spicy Mexican appetizers like jalapeño poppers.
  • Light and fresh seafood such as ceviche or shrimp cocktails.
  • Salty snacks like tortilla chips with guacamole or salsa.

The Tequila Mockingbird: A Novel Cocktail Experience

The Tequila Mockingbird is a refreshingly unique cocktail that offers a delightful twist on the classic sour. Its combination of earthy tequila, cool mint, and sharp lime creates a balanced and invigorating flavor profile. Simple to make and visually striking with its green hue, it is a memorable drink with a clever literary connection. Perfect for summer sipping or as a creative addition to any cocktail menu, it's a testament to the playful spirit of mid-century mixology.

Similar Cocktails

Southside

A gin-based cocktail with lime, simple syrup, and fresh muddled mint leaves instead of crème de menthe.

Mojito

Uses rum, fresh mint, lime, and sugar, built in the glass and topped with soda. Shares the mint-lime profile but is a different style of drink.

Stinger

A classic two-ingredient cocktail made with brandy (or cognac) and white crème de menthe, sharing the mint liqueur but lacking citrus.

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