Ranch Water

Fill a highball or Collins glass with ice. Pour 2 ounces of tequila over the ice then add the lime juice. Top off with sparkling mineral water. Stir gently to combine. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Ranch Water is a simple, refreshing cocktail originating from Texas, known for its straightforward ingredients and thirst-quenching qualities. It typically consists of tequila, fresh lime juice, and sparkling mineral water, often served over ice in a highball or Collins glass. This drink is especially popular in hot climates due to its light and invigorating profile.

Ranch Water has a somewhat legendary and anecdotal history, with its exact origins not precisely documented. It is believed to have been created in West Texas, where the drink has become a regional staple. The cocktail's simplicity and reliance on readily available ingredients made it a favorite among ranchers and cowboys who sought a refreshing drink after a long day in the heat. The lore often credits ranch hands and cowboys with the creation of Ranch Water, mixing tequila and lime with the highly carbonated Topo Chico mineral water, which has been bottled in Monterrey, Mexico since 1895 and gained popularity in Texas over the years. The strong carbonation of Topo Chico, combined with the robust flavor of tequila and the freshness of lime juice, makes Ranch Water an ideal drink for the hot Texan climate.