Ranch Water

Ranch Water is a light tequila cocktail hailing from Texas. It incorporates tequila, lime juice, and sparkling mineral water—preferably Topo Chico, which is ubiquitous in Texas. Some variations also opt for a splash of orange liqueur.

This Texan cocktail has a long and rather vague history. Presumably, it has a decades-long tradition, but its popularity skyrocketed in the last ten years, surpassing the borders of its native state. It most likely originated among local ranchers, who enjoyed it as a refreshing afternoon drink.

The story says that the ranchers would pour out or drink some Topo Chico and then add tequila and lime juice to the bottle. The name is mostly associated with The Gage Hotel in Marathon and Ranch 616, a local hangout in Austin, though it is not clear who was the first to implement it on the menu.

The Texans and the purists argue that the use of Topo Chico water is what makes Ranch Water unique—its mineral character and lively effervescence are said to complement tequila exceptionally well. Ranch Water can be made in a cocktail shaker or by adding tequila and lime juice to a glass filled with ice and then topping it with Topo Chico.