Matador
A simple, shaken mix of tequila, pineapple, and lime.
Base spirit
Tequila
Style
Sour
Glassware
Coupe
Technique
Shake
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.
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How to make the Matador
- 1Add tequila blanco or reposado, fresh pineapple juice, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup to a shaker filled with ice
- 2Shake until well chilled
- 3Strain into a Coupe
- 4Garnish with pineapple wedge and serve
