Tequila has come a long way from slushy margaritas and tequila shots at midnight. At Sonora, we believe great tequila deserves a seat at the table — and in your cocktail glass —
with the same elegance and versatility as whisky, rum, or gin. With International Tequila Day coming up in July (keep an eye out for our collaboration with agave legend Phil Bayly), we’re diving into how we use tequila across a range of inspired cocktails — beyond the classics.
🍊 The Tequila Negroni
Swapping gin for tequila in a Negroni isn’t new — but using Añejo adds richness and complexity that takes it to another level.
Roy’s House Version:
- 30ml 1800 Añejo Tequila
- 15ml Pampelle Ruby Liqueur
- 7ml Sweet Vermouth
Stirred, not shaken. Served over a big cube with a grapefruit twist. The Añejo brings vanilla and spice, Pampelle adds gentle bitterness and citrus, and the vermouth rounds it all off. A lighter, more aromatic Negroni that pairs beautifully with food.
☕ Espresso Borracho
Our original version (from the archives) used cold drip, macadamia liqueur and blanco tequila — but we’ve updated it to something a little bolder.
Sonora Espresso Borracho (2025 Edition):
- 40ml Blanco Tequila
- 30ml Cold Drip Coffee
- 15ml Macadamia Liqueur
- 15ml Agave Syrup
- 15ml Aquafaba or egg white (for foam)
Shaken hard and served straight up. Think espresso martini, but drier, earthier, and more interesting. Perfect with our dark chocolate tamal or on its own after dinner.
🥃 Reposado Carajillo (Sonora Deluxe Edition)
A twist on the beloved Mexican Carajillo — our version swaps out the usual Licor 43 + espresso base for something a little more grown-up, using Reposado tequila and a touch of Crème de Cacao for mocha richness.
Recipe:
- 30ml Reposado Tequila
- 30ml Licor 43
- 30ml Crème de Cacao (dark)
- 30ml Fresh Espresso
- Optional: dash of Chocolate or Mole Bitters
Method: Shake hard with ice, fine strain into a coupe or rocks glass. Garnish with grated chocolate or a flamed orange twist. This is one for your dessert menu — or a serious upgrade from your average espresso martini.
More Than Margaritas
Tequila cocktails deserve better than being pigeonholed. At Sonora, we treat tequila with the same respect as whisky or mezcal — building drinks that are elegant, seasonal, and layered.
Craving something custom or curious about pairing one of these drinks with your favourite dish? Just ask — or bring your best bottle, and we’ll pair it for you.
📍 Visit us in Potts Point or check out @sonora.potts.point for upcoming tequila events, new cocktails, and our upcoming celebration for International Tequila Day.
Want the full tequila tasting experience or to host a private cocktail night? Contact us here.
