Cantarito

History & Origin

The cantarito is Jalisco's most emblematic cocktail after the margarita, though unlike the margarita, the cantarito remains a well-kept secret outside Mexico. Its name comes from the small clay jug ("cantarito" or "jarrito") in which it is traditionally served, and which is not merely a decorative vessel but a fundamental element of the flavour: unglazed clay imparts an earthy, mineral taste that uniquely complements the citrus and tequila. The origin of the cantarito is disputed among several Jalisco towns, but the most accepted version places it in Amatitán, a tequila-producing town par excellence located in the Agave Landscape, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At patron saint festivals and fairs in Jalisco's towns, street vendors prepared cantaritos in handmade clay jugs crafted by local potters. The recipe combines blanco tequila with freshly squeezed orange, grapefruit and lime juices, a splash of grapefruit fizzy drink (typically Squirt or Fresca) and coarse salt. The result is a refreshing, citrusy and balanced drink sipped slowly whilst the clay keeps it cool. Today the cantarito has become a national and even international phenomenon, appearing in craft cocktail bars worldwide.