Ranch Water

When the weather heats up, I’m always on the lookout for my personal summer drink, and this year it’s without a doubt Texas Ranch Water.

This is probably the most refreshing drink I’ve ever had and it has a bit of a buzz without being overly alcoholic. A simple mix of tequila, sparkling water, and lime is all it takes to whip up this summer sip. It’s just what I need after a day of gardening or for an impromptu neighbor’s porch.

What is ranch water and why is it called ranch water?

The origins of the Texas Ranch Water Cocktail are as murky as a Dark and Stormy. In its most current form, it’s just three ingredients: good Blanco Tequila, fresh lime and Topo Chico mineral water.

To prepare a ranch water, add the tequila to a glass with the fresh lime juice. I usually just hand squeeze a quarter of a lime directly into the glass. Nothing special. Then finish off with Topo Chico. Garnish with additional lime slices as you wish! Applause!

Be sure to use fresh lime when making this cocktail as it makes a world of difference. I recommend 1/4 of a lime per drink, but you can use even more if you want a more intense lime flavor.

What is the best tequila?

There’s no specific brand of tequila to look for here, but I recommend a blanco tequila that doesn’t have smoky notes.

Here’s our guide to all things tequila if you want to learn more about the difference between añejo and blanco and which tequilas are best for sipping or mixing into cocktails.

Is Topo Chico required? Should it be?

Would I refuse a ranch water made with a different sparkling water? The answer is no; I’ll gladly accept the drink.

But Topo Chico has something that makes it special. It’s incredibly carbonated – more so than other sparkling waters. The extra fizz and bubbles add that extra something to a refreshing drink like this.

This is 100 percent not sponsored by Topo Chico but I have some in my fridge now just for this cocktail. That means the Texas Rangers aren’t going to show up at your house if you’re using LaCroix or something.

Ranch Water Cocktail Glassware

This drink can be served in a variety of ways. It’s generally served in a 12-ounce tall glass, but I also like it in an 8-ounce mug, which makes it easier to split a Topo Chico between two cocktails (if you’re looking for a lighter cocktail, I’ve got that below explain). .

In my opinion, the ingredients and their simplicity are more important than the glasses in this drink.

Ranch Water Variations

While the default is delicious, you are of course free to change this up and experiment. The easiest way to do this is to add fruit to the drink. I love it when raspberries are added, or I use a flavored Topo Chico (their grapefruit is particularly good).

To create a more complex cocktail, try adding a splash of St. Germain or Pimm’s to the drink before topping it up with the sparkling water. Not legal in Texas, but delicious nonetheless!

More drinks with tequila

• Classic margarita
• Frozen siesta cocktail
• Classic Paloma cocktail
• Blueberry Pitcher Margaritas