Mexican Firing Squad Cocktail –
A Vintage Tequila Classic

The Mexican Firing Squad is a bold, forgotten gem of tequila mixology — a vibrant cocktail that combines the tartness of lime, the sweetness of grenadine, and the depth of Angostura bitters. First documented in 1939 by travel writer Charles H. Baker, this pre-Prohibition-era drink is a must-try for cocktail enthusiasts who love history, flavor, and a touch of drama.

At Cancun Tequila Tasting, we serve this classic in our mixology classes at Lighthouse Restaurant, where guests learn to balance its flavors like a true bartender. Here’s how to make it at home — with a few pro tips from our certified agave specialists.

The Story Behind the Mexican Firing Squad

The Mexican Firing Squad was first recorded by historian Charles H. Baker in his 1939 book *The Gentleman’s Companion*. While traveling in Mexico City, Baker and a companion broke away from their official tour and stumbled upon a swanky cocktail bar called **La Cucaracha** (yes, “The Cockroach”), where they were served this potent tequila concoction.

As Baker wrote: “We were herded into fancy, rather dull places… and finally on one occasion we broke off by ourselves, sought out this bar—where an aristocrat native oughtn’t to be seen!—ordered things in our own way.”

The drink, made with blanco tequila, lime juice, grenadine, and bitters, quickly earned a reputation for its bold flavor and memorable name — a nod to its powerful kick.

Ingredients

• 2 oz (60 ml) 100% agave Blanco tequila
• 0.75 oz (22 ml) fresh lime juice
• 0.5 oz (15 ml) high-quality grenadine (pomegranate syrup)
• 2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
• Ice
• Garnish: lime wheel and a cherry (optional)

How to Make a Mexican Firing Squad

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the tequila, fresh lime juice, and grenadine.
3. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to chill and emulsify.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
5. Top with 2–3 dashes of Angostura bitters, dropped slowly on the surface.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and a cherry.
7. Serve immediately!

Cocktail Tips from Our Tequila Masters

• ✅ Use fresh lime juice — bottled juice lacks brightness and can dull the flavor.
• ✅ Choose a high-quality grenadine — avoid artificial syrups; opt for pomegranate-based ones like "The Bitter Truth".
• ✅ Shake hard — this cocktail benefits from aeration, which balances the sweetness and acidity.
• ✅ Don’t skip the bitters — they add depth and a warm, spiced finish that defines the drink.
• ✅ Serve it straight up — in a coupe glass for elegance, or on the rocks for a longer sip.

Want to Learn More Cocktail Secrets?

This recipe is just the beginning. In our Tequila & Mixology Class, you’ll create your own signature cocktail, learn pairing techniques, and taste 7 premium 100% agave tequilas — all in the scenic setting of Lighthouse Restaurant.

Want to Taste This Tequila at Home?

The tequilas we use in our mixology classes — like the Blanco and Reposado in this El Diablo recipe — are available for purchase and delivery to the United States.

Each bottle is hand-selected by our certified agave specialists for its quality, origin, and flavor profile. No mass-market brands — only authentic, 100% agave tequilas from trusted distilleries in Jalisco.

When you buy from us, you’re not just getting a bottle — you’re continuing the experience you started in Cancun.

Love This Tequila? Take It Home.

The Blanco tequila used in this Mexican Firing Squad is available for purchase and delivery to the United States. We only sell 100% agave tequilas that we personally taste and approve in our master classes — no mixtos, no imposters.