Beyond Margaritas: 4 Sophisticated SWOL Cocktails That Impress Every Time

SWOL has always believed in “Friends drinking with friends.”

But… What exactly does that mean? Is it simply gathering around a fire pit and chugging? Is it beer pong and loud music? That’s up to you! Those all seem like perfectly good times with friends. However, if you’re looking for that next step - that sophisticated elevation to a night with friends, then you’re in for a treat. 

With SWOL’s small-batch añejo at the center of your bar cart, you can turn any living room into a refined tasting lounge. From crafting the perfect invite to pairing curated bites, hosting a spirited gathering has never felt more accessible. Here are five effortless ways to plan a memorable gathering that feels both sophisticated and wonderfully inclusive.

5 Ways To Host Your Very Own Tequila Tasting

Smoked Añejo Old Fashioned

A twist on one of the most enduring whiskey libations, this rendition employs a brief flirtation with smoke to accentuate caramel and spice notes in SWOL Añejo. The initial hint of smoke opens a gateway to SWOL’s oaky backbone. 

Each sip merges gentle char with honeyed agave, creating a contemplative sipping experience perfect for fireside chats. The wood chips are optional, and you can still enjoy the drink without them.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces SWOL Añejo
• ½ ounce demerara syrup (1:1 demerara sugar and water)
• 2 dashes aromatic bitters
• Small piece of orange peel
• Wood chip or smoking pouch (apple or cherry wood)

Steps:

1. Preheat your glass by filling it with ice water, then discard the water and add one large ice cube.
2. In a mixing glass, stir the spirit, syrup and bitters with fresh ice until the temperature drops.
3. Strain into the prepared glass.
4. Ignite a wood chip using a lighter or torch, then trap the smoke under the glass for ten seconds to suffuse the drink with aroma.
5. Glide the orange peel over the surface, rub it around the rim and rest it inside as a garnish.

Also Read - How to Host a Tequila Tasting Night with SWOL?

Añejo Negroni

To many, the Negroni is the perfect drink. But, allow us to make it perfect-er. This bittersweet parade blends the complex warmth of SWOL Añejo with the classic structure of gin, Campari and vermouth to produce one of the most elegant tequila cocktail recipes you can serve.

The herbal bitterness of Campari and the fortified body of vermouth balance SWOL’s rich agave character. Bittersweet elements dance together, and the result makes for one of the most iconic and lasting tequila drinks to pass your lips.

Ingredients:

• 1 ounce SWOL Añejo
• 1 ounce Campari or Aperol (for a less bitter drink)
• 1 ounce sweet vermouth
• Orange twist

Steps:

1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass filled with ice.
2. Stir for about 20 seconds until well chilled.
3. Strain into a rocks glass over a single large ice cube.
4. Garnish with an orange twist, gently twisting it over the drink before placing it on the rim.

Warm Orchard Spice Toddy

When temperatures drop, a steaming toddy offers comfort and class. SWOL Añejo lends depth to this spiced sipper that feels like home on any cozy night.

The natural sweetness of apple cider and maple complements SWOL’s oaky tones. Clove and cinnamon add that nostalgic edge and signature warmth, making this tequila cocktail ideal for holidays or late-night chats.

Ingredients 

• 2 ounces SWOL Añejo
• 4 ounces hot apple cider
• ½ ounce maple syrup
• 2 whole cloves 
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Lemon wheel and cinnamon dust for garnish

Steps

1. Warm a heat-proof mug by rinsing it with hot water, then discard the water.
2. Pour in the spirit, cider and maple syrup. Stir lightly to blend.
3. Add cloves and the cinnamon stick, letting the drink gently steep for two minutes.
4. Remove the cloves and cinnamon stick.
5. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a light dusting of ground cinnamon.

Grilled Pineapple Añejo Smash

Let’s end things with a bang. Bright and tropical with a hint of char, this smash elevates fresh fruit and herbs alongside SWOL Añejo. It is a playful yet refined option for summer evenings or poolside lounging. 

Smoky, sweet, and herbaceous, this cocktail layers caramelized pineapple with bright citrus and fresh mint. The hint of sea salt ties every element together, adding a subtle savoury edge that keeps each sip lively.

Ingredients 

• 2 ounces SWOL Añejo
• 1 ounce grilled pineapple syrup (char pineapple chunks and reduce with sugar)
• ¾ ounce fresh lime juice
• 4 fresh mint leaves
• Pinch of smoked sea salt 
• Mint sprig and pineapple wedge for garnish

Steps

1. In a shaker, gently muddle the mint leaves with lime juice and pineapple syrup.
2. Add SWOL Añejo and ice, then shake vigorously until well chilled.
3. Strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of smoked sea salt over the top.
5. Garnish with a mint sprig and a charred pineapple wedge.

Check Out - Tequila Care 101: How to Store, Serve & Sip SWOL

Be the Star of the Show With SWOL

Armed with SWOL Tequila and a sense of adventure, you hold the key to crafting tequila drinks that are sure to impress!