This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
This easy ranch water recipe is made with just three ingredients – tequila, lime juice, and mineral water like Topo Chico. A refreshing cocktail for laid-back sipping!
What Is Ranch Water?
Ranch water is a simple tequila cocktail that originally hails from West Texas. Rumor has it, a hardworking rancher decided to give his water a little “kick” by adding tequila and lime – and the rest is delicious history.
It’s light, citrusy, and so refreshing, making it a perfect choice when you want something lower in sugar and calories compared to heavier cocktails like a margarita.
Today, you’ll even find canned versions at the store in a variety of flavors, but making it fresh at home is just so much better, in my opinion.
Ranch Water Ingredients
This cocktail uses 3 simple ingredients that you likely already have at home:
- Tequila: Blanco (or silver) tequila is the go-to for ranch water. It gives the drink its signature crisp, clean taste. Brands like Espolon, Casamigos, Herradura, or Patron are all great options. Just make sure you’re buying 100% agave tequila!
- Lime juice: I recommend using fresh lime juice whenever possible for the best flavor, but bottled lime juice will work in a pinch. If you do use bottled lime juice, get one that isn’t. Santa Cruz Organic Pure Lime Juice is a great option.
- Mineral water: Topo Chico is the gold standard here. Its extra-bubbly carbonation and mineral flavor make ranch water truly shine. Can’t find Topo? San Pellegrino or another sparkling mineral water works in a pinch.
(See the recipe card below for full measurements.)
How To Make Ranch Water
It’s as easy as 1-2-3:
- Fill a tall glass halfway with ice and add tequila.
- Add lime juice.
- Top it off with Topo Chico. Enjoy.
If you’re in the mood for more light and refreshing drinks, you might also love a cold chelada, a refreshing skinny margarita, or a bright and citrusy paloma.
Tips and Variations
Because ranch water is so minimal, it’s super easy to customize:
- Add fresh fruit: Toss in some blackberries, strawberries, or watermelon cubes for a fruity twist.
- Switch up the bubbles: Try a flavored sparkling water like grapefruit or lime for some added flavor.
- Sweeten it: Add a splash of simple syrup or agave nectar if you like it a little sweeter. The tequila flavor is quite strong in this drink.
- Make it smoky: Use reposado tequila or even mezcal instead if you prefer a smoother and stronger aged tequila flavor.
Pair it with some crunchy homemade tortilla chips and creamy guacamole for the ultimate summer snack.
More Tequila Cocktails
If you made this recipe, please leave a rating and comment below! I love hearing about your experience, and it also helps others.
Ranch Water
Ingredients
- 3 ounces blanco tequila
- 1 ½ ounces lime juice
- Mineral water, like Topo Chico, chilled
- lime wedge, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a tall glass (or any 10 to 14-ounce glass) halfway with ice.
- Add the tequila and lime juice.
- Top with Topo Chico, give it a stir, and garnish with a lime wedge.
Notes
- Tequila: Blanco (silver) tequila is traditional in this drink, but you can use reposado or even mezcal for a slightly smoother, smokier flavor. Always choose a tequila labeled 100% agave for the best taste. Espolon, Casamigos, Herradura, or Patron are all great brands.
- Mineral water: Topo Chico is the top choice for its sharp carbonation and minerality. If you can’t find it, use another sparkling mineral water like San Pellegrino or Perrier.
- Lime juice: Fresh is best, but if you’re using bottled, pick a high-quality pure lime juice that isn’t from concentrate, like Santa Cruz Organic.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
This post was originally published in August 2022 and has been updated with more helpful tips.
Thank you for this recipe. I enjoy this every evening