Ranch Water recipe
Texas's unofficial state drink — tequila, lime, and Topo Chico. That's it.
Method: Build ·
Glass: Highball glass ·
Time: 2 min ·
Difficulty: Beginner ·
Family: The Highball Family
Ingredients
- 2 oz Blanco Tequila
- 1 oz Fresh Lime Juice
- Top Topo Chico (or mineral water)
How to make a Ranch Water
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add tequila and fresh lime juice.
- Top with Topo Chico mineral water.
- Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge.
Garnish
Lime wedge.
Pro tip
Topo Chico is the traditional choice — its aggressive carbonation and mineral content make it different from regular sparkling water. If you can't find it, use any high-carbonation mineral water. This drink is all about simplicity and refreshment.
History of the Ranch Water
Ranch Water originated in West Texas, likely in the 1960s-70s among ranchers who mixed tequila with the locally available Topo Chico mineral water. It went mainstream in the 2020s, with canned versions appearing everywhere.
Flavour profile
Citrus, Mineral, Clean, Refreshing
Variations
- Spicy Ranch Water — Add jalapeño slices for heat
- Mezcal Ranch Water — Use mezcal for smoky depth
- Ranch Water Rita — Add agave syrup and salt the rim
Practise making the Ranch Water in the free Virtual Bar game.