Chimayó recipe
This New Mexican classic unites earthy tequila, tart apple cider, and crème de cassis.
Method: Shake and strain into ice-filled glass ·
Glass: Rocks glass with fresh ice ·
Time: 3 min ·
Difficulty: Beginner ·
Family: Modern Classics
Ingredients
- 2 oz Blanco tequila
- 1.5 oz Unfiltered apple cider
- 0.5 oz Fresh lemon juice
- 0.25 oz Crème de cassis
How to make a Chimayó
- Add blanco tequila, apple cider, fresh lemon juice, and crème de cassis to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake vigorously for approximately 10 to 12 seconds until chilled and well-integrated.
- Fill a rocks glass with fresh ice cubes or crushed ice.
- Strain the shaken mixture directly into the prepared rocks glass.
- Garnish with a fresh apple slice and serve immediately.
Garnish
Garnish with a fresh apple slice and an optional blackberry.
Pro tip
Use cloudy, unfiltered fresh apple cider rather than clear apple juice to secure authentic rustic texture and deep orchard flavor. Adjust the lemon juice slightly depending on the natural sweetness of your cider.
History of the Chimayó
The Chimayó cocktail originated during the mid-twentieth century at Rancho de Chimayó, a historic restaurant nestled in the northern New Mexican village of Chimayó. Conceived by founder Arturo Jaramillo, the drink celebrates local agricultural heritage by pairing traditional agave spirits with regional apple orchards and blackcurrant liqueur. While oral history attributes its creation to the establishment's early years, exact documentation remains scarce. Over subsequent decades, this regional specialty gained broader acclaim across American craft cocktail bars as a defining modern southwest classic.
Flavour profile
Tart, Earthy, Fruity, Bright
Variations
- Mezcal Chimayó — Substitute artisanal mezcal for the blanco tequila to introduce a smoky, earthy depth that complements the tart apple cider.
- Spiced Pear Chimayó — Swap pear nectar or pear liqueur for the crème de cassis to blend orchard fruit notes with warm autumnal spices.
Practise making the Chimayó in the free Virtual Bar game.