Mexican Firing Squad: The Gentleman’s Companion

For those seeking a tequila cocktail beyond the Margarita and Paloma, the Mexican Firing Squad offers a yummy alternative. This classic drink, featuring lime juice, grenadine, and bitters, boasts a tangy and sweet flavor perfect for warm weather sipping.

The recipe dates back to 1939, recorded by historian Charles H. Baker in his guide “Gentleman’s Companion.” Baker, an avid traveler and documenter of global experiences, stumbled upon the Mexican Firing Squad at La Cucaracha Cocktail Club in Mexico City.

Despite its curious name, the bar exuded Prohibition-era elegance, offering a menu of classic cocktails in a classy setting.

Baker’s original recipe called for tequila, lime juice, grenadine or gomme syrup, and Angostura bitters. Modern variations often include a touch more grenadine for added sweetness. Blanco tequila serves as the base, its agave-forward profile blending well with the citrusy notes of lime juice. Grenadine lends a fruity tartness, while Angostura bitters contribute depth and warm spice nuances.

While some renditions add club soda, the classic Mexican Firing Squad remains well balanced without it—a nice departure from the usual Margarita fare.

Mexican Firing Squad Ingredients 

• Blanco Tequila (60 ml / 2 oz): The base, gives a clear foundation that carries the slight sweetness of agave.
• Lime Juice (22.5 ml / 0.75 oz): Adds a fresh, citrusy tang that cuts through the sweetness, balancing the cocktail.
• Grenadine (22.5 ml / 0.75 oz): A sweet, deep red syrup made from pomegranates, lending a fruity sweetness and a nice color that makes the drink look great.
• Angostura Bitters (4 dashes): Adds a layer of complexity with its blend of herbs and spices, adding depth and a subtle spicy undertone.
• Garnish: Lime Wheel: A final touch that adds an extra zing and a pop of color.

Mexican Firing Squad Recipe 

1. Chilling the Cocktail: Begin by adding the blanco tequila, freshly squeezed lime juice, grenadine, and dashes of Angostura bitters into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. The ice not chills and dilutes the mix.
2. Shaking for Chill and Fusion: Shake well until the shaker is cold to the touch. This step ensures that the ingredients are thoroughly mixed, chilled, and slightly aerated.
3. Straining Over Fresh Ice: Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Using fresh ice prevents the cocktail from becoming overly diluted and ensures it stays cold longer.
4. Garnishing for Aroma and Appeal: Garnish with a lime wheel. The garnish adds visual appeal but also releases essential oils when squeezed over the drink.

For the Best Mexican Firing Squad

• Quality Ingredients: The choice of tequila is crucial; opt for a high-quality blanco tequila that you enjoy on its own.
• Fresh Lime Juice: Always use fresh lime juice for the best flavor. The freshness brings an acidity and zest that can’t be matched by bottled lime juice.
• Homemade Grenadine: Make your own grenadine if possible. Homemade grenadine is easy to prepare and offers a richer, more authentic pomegranate flavor compared to store-bought versions.
• Balancing Flavors: Adjust the sweetness according to your taste. If the cocktail is too sweet, add a little more lime juice. If it’s too tart, increase the grenadine slightly.

Charles H. Baker, a noted drinks historian, documented the tangy blend of tequila, lime juice, grenadine, and Angostura bitters in his 1939 publication, “The Gentleman’s Companion.”

However, he encountered it two years prior during a research expedition at the La Cucaracha Cocktail Club in Mexico City. It offers a nice departure from the typical Margarita.