Lone Ranger Cocktail: A Rosé & Tequila Refresher

The Lone Ranger cocktail defies convention by combining tequila and sparkling wine, particularly rosé, in a single glass.

Renowned bartender Jeffrey Morgenthaler, known for establishments like Pacific Standard and The Sunset Room in Portland, Oregon, made this unique cocktail during his time at the now-closed Clyde Common. His goal was to fashion a light and bubbly brunch beverage suitable for any time of day.

Describing the Lone Ranger, Morgenthaler lauds its attributes as “lower proof, bubbly, pink, and delicious.”

Check out some more of the best tequila cocktail recipes.

Lone Ranger Cocktail Ingredients

• Tequila (45 ml / 1.5 oz): The hero of our cocktail, tequila brings a lively, earthy base that pairs wonderfully with the cocktail’s other components.
• Lemon Juice (30 ml / 1 oz): Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a tart brightness, cutting through the tequila’s richness and balancing the drink.
• Rich Simple Syrup (15 ml / 0.5 oz): This thicker, sweeter version of simple syrup lends the cocktail a smoothness without out-shining the other flavors.
• Brut Rosé Sparkling Wine (60 ml / 2 oz): For a touch of bubbles, the brut rosé sparkling wine adds a fruity and floral finish that complements the tequila’s robustness.
• Garnish: Lemon Twist: A twist of lemon adds a pop of citrus aroma.

Lone Ranger Cocktail Recipe

1. Prepare Ingredients: Begin by juicing your lemon and preparing your rich simple syrup.
2. Chill Your Glass: To ensure your cocktail stays refreshing, chill a Collins glass in the freezer for a few minutes before building your drink.
3. Mix the Base: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, mix the tequila, lemon juice, and rich simple syrup. Shake until the outside of the shaker feels cold. This not only chills the ingredients but also dilutes the cocktail, making it smoother.
4. Add Sparkle: Open your chilled bottle of brut rosé sparkling wine and measure out the required amount. Pour the sparkling wine into the shaker. The sparkling wine shouldn’t be shaken to preserve its bubbles; gently stir it with the other mixed ingredients instead.
5. Serve: Strain the cocktail into your chilled Collins glass filled with fresh ice. The sparkling wine will create a beautiful layer on top.
6. Garnish: Squeeze a lemon twist over the drink to release its oils, then either drop it into the cocktail or perch it on the rim.

Tips for the Best Lone Ranger Cocktail

• Quality Matters: Choose a quality tequila and a brut rosé sparkling wine you enjoy on their own. The better the ingredients, the better the cocktail.
• Adjust to Taste: If you prefer your cocktails a bit sweeter or more tart, adjust the amounts of rich simple syrup and lemon juice.
• Serve Immediately: To enjoy the bubbly sparkling wine, serve the cocktail immediately after adding it to the mix.

The Lone Ranger Cocktail is more than just a drink; it’s a celebration of flavors that are bold, refreshing, and elegantly presented. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet moment alone, this cocktail is sure to impress and satisfy.