Matador
A simple, shaken mix of tequila, pineapple, and lime.
Base spirit
Tequila
Style
Sour
Glassware
Coupe
The Matador is one of the three primary tequila classics (alongside the Margarita and Sunrise), pairing the spirit with pineapple juice. It lacks the carbonation of a highball, drinking more like a stiff sour. The pineapple's acidity and foam structure complement the vegetal tequila perfectly. It is a streamlined, less sweet alternative to tiki drinks.
Ingredients
Servings
- • 2 oz tequila blanco or reposado
- • 2 oz fresh pineapple juice
- • 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
- • 0.5 oz simple syrup (optional)
Did you know?
“The Matador appeared in the 1937 *Café Royal Cocktail Book*, establishing pineapple as a key partner for tequila long before the tiki boom.”
Source:Café Royal Cocktail Book; Difford's Guide
Bartender's Note
Shake vigorously to create a frothy head from the pineapple juice.
How to make the Matador
- 1Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice
- 2Shake well
- 3Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass
- 4Garnish with a pineapple wedge
