Ranch Water Recipe

This Ranch water recipe is a refreshing, 3-ingredient low calorie cocktail created in West Texas. It’s easy to make and perfect for a hot summer day. Sharing everything you need to know about this cocktail!

If you’ve never heard of ranch water, that likely means you haven’t spent much time in West Texas. That’s because this bubbly, refreshing cocktail is the unofficial drink of the region. 

Whether you’re headed to Texas for a trip soon or are just looking for a tasty cocktail, low in calories, to celebrate warmer weather, we’re bringing you everything you need to know about ranch water.

What is Ranch Water?

It’s a surprisingly simple to make, cool cocktail that features just three ingredients. You might have noticed ranch water sold in stores, however, there is nothing better than the homemade version and it’s incredibly easy to make.

All you’ll need to whip up this tasty drink is tequila, lime, and Topo Chico. Clear and refreshing, this drink is best served over a lot of ice and with a slice of lime.

What is Topo Chico?

Bubbly water has been having a moment for the last several years. While La Croix gives sparkling water-lovers plenty of flavors to choose from, it’s far from the only option out there. And also far from the oldest.

Topo Chico is a sparkling mineral water that’s been in production since the 1800s!

Made in Mexico, this bottled delight was first created in 1895 but has flown under the radar in the U.S. until recent years. Previously, the drink had a cult following, largely because it was tough to get north of the border.

But that changed in 2017 when Coca-Cola purchased rights to produce and bottle the brand in America. Now, the drink has been steadily growing in popularity.

How to Make a Ranch Water

Ingredients

• Topo Chico Mineral Water
• Tequila
• Lime Juice

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Directions

• Squeeze fresh lime juice into a bowl.

• Add the lime juice and tequila into a glass filled with ice.

• Pour Topo Chico over the top and garnish with a lime slice or wedge.

Ranch Water Variations

If you want to add a little more to this cocktail try some of these ideas below:

Spicy – Add a slice of jalapeño to the cocktail for a little spice.

Grapefruit – Give it a fruity flavor with 1 ounce, fresh grapefruit juice.

Lemon – Swap out the lime for fresh lemon juice.

Frequently Asked Questions

History of Ranch Water

While Topo Chico might have been tough to find in most parts of the country, West Texas enjoyed easier access to this popular Mexican beverage.

No one knows exactly when Ranch Water was invented, or even by who. But legend has it that a thirsty rancher created it in the 1960s, leading to its name.

It’s also been told that back in the day, ranchers would pour some of the mineral water out, fill it with a few ounces of tequila and a squeeze of lime juice and drink it right from the bottle!

Regardless of when it was first served, restaurants started adding it to their menus across the region and eventually across Texas starting around 2010.

Where can I buy Topo Chico?

You can find Topo Chico at most grocery stores like Whole Foods, as well as Target or Walmart. It’s also sold on Amazon too.

What Alcohol is in Ranch Water?

Tequila is the only choice for a true Ranch Water. The good thing about tequila is that it only has about 69 calories per ounce and no carbohydrates. It’s also low in sugar too, making this a much healthier option for many people.  

What is the Best Tequila for Ranch Water?

You can choose your favorite tequila to make your tasty Ranch Water. But if you want to keep it true to its origins, opt for a Texas tequila.

Some popular options include:

• Pura Vida, a Texas-made tequila dating back to 1923
• Republic Tequila, a proud and prestigious Texas creation
• Railean El Perico Silver Tequila, made from 100% Blue Agave
• Dulce Vida Anejo Tequila, which holds the title of “Most Awarded Tequila”

You can also use:

• Don Julio
• Patron
• Espolon
• Casamigos

What does Ranch Water Taste Like?

Wondering what ranch water tastes like? Similar to a mojito, but with tequila instead of You can expect the crisp and refreshing taste of sparkling Topo Chico, topped with the fresh taste of lime, and finished with that kick of tequila.

Of course, how strong your drink is will depend on how heavy you go with the tequila!

Virgin Ranch Water Recipe

If you want to indulge in this refreshing cocktail, but aren’t drinking alcohol try swapping the tequila for Ritual Zero Proof tequila.

More Cocktails You’ll Love!

If you love this ranch water recipe, check out some these delicious cocktail recipes!

Strawberry Tequila Sodas

How to Make an Aperol Spritz

A Classic Moscow Mule

5 Best Gin and Tonic Recipes

Easy Hibiscus Gin Sour 

Skinny Margarita Recipe

Classic Mimosas

The Best Whiskey Sour

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