Chapala Tequila Cocktail

Pro tips

• Use fresh-squeezed citrus juices (not bottled) to avoid flat, oxidized flavor that muddies the orange flower water note.
• Chill your coupe or cocktail glass beforehand; the delicate floral and citrus aromatics fade quickly as the drink warms.
• Measure grenadine precisely—excess turns the drink cloying; too little loses the color and syrup structure.
• Shake hard for 10–12 seconds with plenty of ice to achieve proper dilution and temperature without over-aerating.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Tequila → any silver/blanco tequila (maintain proof and avoid aged varieties)
• Orange Juice → fresh tangerine or blood orange juice (brighter, less acidic alternative)
• Orange Flower Water → rose water (note: shifts floral profile; use sparingly)

Storage & make-ahead

Best served immediately after shaking. Store orange flower water in a cool, dark cabinet; once opened, use within 6–12 months.

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger or measuring spoon · coupe or cocktail glass · citrus juicer

Can I substitute the orange flower water?

Orange flower water is distinctive; rose water or a dash of Cointreau can approximate it, but the flavor profile will shift. No direct equivalent preserves the original character.

Should this drink be shaken or stirred?

Shake vigorously with ice to chill, dilute slightly, and properly combine the citrus juices, grenadine, and flower water.

What type of tequila works best?

Old Mr. Boston Tequila is specified; any silver or blanco tequila at similar proof will work, though aged varieties may overpower the delicate floral notes.

Is this cocktail sweet or sour?

Balanced toward tart citrus with subtle sweetness from grenadine and floral undertones; not a sugary drink.