Ingredients
- .75 oz Gold Tequila
- .75 oz Peppermint Liqueur
Instructions
Mix the Drink:
- Pour 0.75 oz of gold tequila and 0.75 oz of peppermint liqueur into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Swirl:
- Gently swirl the ingredients together to mix well without diluting.
Serve:
- Pour the mixture into an old-fashioned glass and enjoy.
Notes
Estimated Nutrition:
Where it came from
This isn't some ancient Aztec concoction. The Mexican Mouthwash likely emerged from the modern bar scene, a playful nod to its vibrant green hue and potent, minty freshness. It's a contemporary creation, probably from the late 20th or early 21st century, born in a bar looking to shake up the usual tequila offerings.
While it shares a tequila base with countless Mexican cocktails, the Mexican Mouthwash stands apart with its assertive mint profile. It's not a Margarita, nor a Paloma. Think of it as a distant, slightly rebellious cousin to a Southside or a Mojito, but with tequila taking center stage and the mint pushed to the forefront, giving it that distinctive 'mouthwash' character.
You're not going to find this one on every dive bar menu. This is a drink for a craft cocktail spot that appreciates a bit of cheeky humor, or a home bar where you're confident enough to mix something a little out of the ordinary. It's a great palate cleanser before dinner, or a bold opener to a night out.
What it tastes like
The first sip of a Mexican Mouthwash hits you with a blast of cool, clean mint from the crème de menthe, immediately followed by the bright, zesty tang of fresh lime. Underneath that refreshing wave, the earthy, peppery notes of tequila blanco provide a solid foundation, preventing the drink from becoming overly sweet or one-dimensional. It's a surprisingly complex interplay of fresh, herbal, and citrus flavors.
Clocking in around 25% ABV, the Mexican Mouthwash is a serious contender. That's roughly five times the alcohol content of a standard light beer, or about two and a half times a typical IPA. Don't let its refreshing nature fool you into thinking it's a light sipper; this drink packs a significant punch and should be approached with respect.
The technique
This is a shaken drink, through and through. Combine all your liquid ingredients in a shaker with plenty of ice. Give it a vigorous shake for about 15 to 20 seconds, until the shaker is frosty cold. Strain it into a chilled coupe or a rocks glass over fresh ice, depending on your preference. Serve immediately to maintain that crisp, cold temperature.
The key to a great Mexican Mouthwash is fresh lime juice. Bottled stuff just won't cut it here. The bright acidity is crucial for balancing the sweetness of the crème de menthe and cutting through the tequila, making the whole drink sing.
Ingredient Spotlight
The bottles that make or break this drink.
Tequila Blanco
- Use
- A decent quality tequila blanco is essential. Look for something 100% agave, like Olmeca Altos, Espolon, or Tapatio. Their clean, peppery notes are perfect here.
- Skip
- Anything labeled 'mixto' or with added sugars. Also, aged tequilas like reposado or añejo will clash with the mint and lime, muddying the vibrant profile.
- Why
- Tequila provides the backbone and the 'Mexican' in Mexican Mouthwash. Its agave character grounds the drink, preventing it from becoming just a sweet minty concoction.
Green Crème de Menthe
- Use
- Choose a quality green crème de menthe. Brands like Bols, Marie Brizard, or Tempus Fugit offer good flavor without being overly syrupy or artificial. The color is part of the fun here.
- Skip
- Avoid clear crème de menthe if you want the visual 'mouthwash' effect. Also, steer clear of overly cheap, artificial tasting versions; they'll make the drink taste like toothpaste.
- Why
- This is where the 'Mouthwash' comes from. It delivers that intense, cooling mint flavor and the signature green hue that defines the drink. It's a load-bearing flavor.
Three Variations
Three real ways bartenders riff on this drink.
Spicy Rinse
- Adds a fiery kick to the minty freshness.
- Muddle a few slices of jalapeño or serrano pepper in the shaker before adding other ingredients. Strain well to remove solids.
Herbal Freshener
- Aromatic twist with other fresh herbs.
- Instead of just mint, muddle a few basil leaves or a sprig of cilantro with the mint for a more complex herbal aroma.
Citrus Swish
- Brighter, more complex citrus notes.
- Swap out half of the lime juice for fresh grapefruit or orange juice to introduce a different citrus dimension.
What if I don't have…
Quick substitutions for when the bottle shop is closed.
Try a few dashes of a mint bitters with a touch more simple syrup, or muddle fresh mint leaves with a splash of vodka or gin for a minty base.
Vodka will give you a clean, minty lime drink, but you'll lose the 'Mexican' character. Gin could work for a more botanical, herbal take.
Fresh lemon juice is the best substitute, though it will shift the flavor profile slightly. Avoid bottled citrus if possible.
Use a sturdy jar with a tight-fitting lid. Just make sure it's clean and can withstand vigorous shaking without leaking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Direct answers to what people search for after Googling this drink.
What is in a Mexican Mouthwash?
A Mexican Mouthwash typically contains tequila blanco, green crème de menthe, fresh lime juice, and a touch of simple syrup. It's often garnished with a mint sprig or a lime wheel.
Is Mexican Mouthwash a real drink?
While not a classic cocktail with centuries of history, the Mexican Mouthwash is a recognized modern creation found in many contemporary bars and cocktail books. It's a playful, potent drink.
Why is it called Mexican Mouthwash?
The name comes from its primary spirit, tequila, and its vibrant green color combined with a potent, refreshing mint flavor that evokes the sensation of using mouthwash. It's a cheeky, descriptive name.
Is Mexican Mouthwash strong?
Yes, it is. With a significant amount of tequila and crème de menthe, a single Mexican Mouthwash can easily contain as much alcohol as several beers. It's a drink to be enjoyed responsibly.
What does Mexican Mouthwash taste like?
It tastes intensely minty and fresh, balanced by sharp lime acidity and the earthy, peppery notes of tequila. It's surprisingly refreshing, but with a noticeable alcoholic kick.
What kind of tequila should I use?
A good quality 100% agave tequila blanco is recommended. Its clean profile allows the mint and lime to shine without interference from aging notes.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version?
You could combine mint syrup, fresh lime juice, and a splash of sparkling water for a refreshing mocktail, but it won't replicate the complexity or kick of the original.
What food pairs well with a Mexican Mouthwash?
Its refreshing and bold flavors make it a good match for spicy Mexican dishes, rich tacos, or even fresh seafood. It can cut through richness and complement heat.
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