Why Gin instead of Tequila for our Margarita.
Caci ErasmusWhen most people think of a margarita, tequila is the obvious star of the show. It’s the classic spirit that has defined the cocktail for decades. But at MIXED Cocktails, we’re all about putting a fresh spin on well-loved classics. That’s why when we created our newest premixed cocktail, we decided to shake things up and swap tequila for gin.
The result? A bright, refreshing Twisted Gin Margarita premix that delivers everything people love about a margarita, with a smoother, more aromatic twist.
A Fresh Take on a Classic Margarita
Traditional margaritas rely on tequila’s earthy agave character, balanced with lime, orange liqueur, and a touch of sweetness. It’s a combination that works incredibly well. But we wanted to explore what would happen if we kept the vibrant citrus profile while introducing a spirit that brings a completely different layer of complexity.
Gin is famous for its botanical character, typically infused with juniper, citrus peel, coriander, and other aromatic ingredients. These botanicals naturally complement the flavours found in a margarita, especially lime and orange. By using gin instead of tequila, we created a cocktail that feels both familiar and excitingly new.
Why Gin Works So Well in a Margarita
One of the biggest surprises when developing our gin margarita premix cocktail was just how naturally gin pairs with the classic margarita ingredients.
The botanicals in gin enhance the citrus rather than compete with it. Lime becomes brighter, orange notes feel more vibrant, and the overall drink develops a clean, refreshing finish. Instead of the heavier agave-forward flavour you get with tequila, the gin margarita has a lighter and more aromatic profile.
For many drinkers, that means a cocktail that’s incredibly easy to enjoy, especially when served ice cold.
If you enjoy exploring creative cocktail flavours, you can also explore our full range of premixed cocktails crafted to bring bar-quality drinks straight to your fridge.
Why We Didn’t Use Tequila
There was also a practical reason behind our decision.
Tequila is a protected spirit that can only legally be produced in specific regions of Mexico. This designation of origin means producers outside of Mexico cannot manufacture tequila themselves. For many smaller brands creating ready-to-drink cocktails, this makes sourcing tequila more complicated and often more expensive due to import logistics and supply constraints.
Instead of relying on imported tequila, we developed a flavour profile that still captures the distinct agave character associated with margaritas.
By using agave syrup, we’re able to bring the subtle sweetness and earthy notes that people associate with tequila-based cocktails, while still allowing gin to shine as the main spirit. The result is a cocktail that still delivers a familiar margarita-style taste, but with a unique botanical twist.
Designed for a Perfect Premix Cocktail
Another reason we chose gin was how well it performs in a ready-to-drink margarita premix. When developing premixed cocktails, balance is everything. You want a drink that stays bright and refreshing without becoming overpowering.
Gin’s clean structure allowed us to build a cocktail that highlights citrus while remaining smooth and sessional. Combined with lime, lemon, agave sweetness, and a hint of orange, the result is a perfectly balanced RTD gin margarita that tastes like it was just shaken at the bar.
To learn more about how we craft our drinks, you can learn more about MIXED Cocktails and our approach to creating premium premixed cocktails.
A Cocktail for Modern Drinkers
Today’s cocktail drinkers are more adventurous than ever. People are exploring new flavours, trying different spirits, and looking for unique twists on classic drinks. The rise of ready-to-drink cocktails has also created a demand for options that feel premium and exciting.
Our Twisted Gin Margarita premix fits right into that trend. It keeps the refreshing citrus punch people expect from a margarita while introducing the layered botanical complexity that gin lovers appreciate.
It’s the best of both worlds.
The MIXED Twist
At MIXED, we believe cocktails should be fun, approachable, and a little unexpected. Our twisted gin margarita is exactly that, a playful reinvention of a beloved classic.
With botanical gin, vibrant citrus, smooth agave sweetness, and a subtle salty lift, it’s a cocktail designed for sunshine, celebrations, and good company.
Whether you’re hosting friends, relaxing by the pool, or looking for a fresh alternative to the traditional margarita, our gin margarita premix delivers a bright new take on a timeless favourite.