What Alcohol Should You Pair With Your Cocktail Mixer?

What Alcohol Should You Pair With Your Cocktail Mixer?

One of the questions we get asked the most is:

"What alcohol should I use with this mixer?"

The good news? There's no single right answer.

While classic cocktails have traditional spirits, experimenting with different alcohols is one of the easiest ways to discover a new favourite. Whether you're making drinks for friends, using a Slushie machine, or simply enjoying a Friday night cocktail at home, here's our guide to pairing each Good Cocktail Co. mixer.


Margarita Mixer

Classic pairing: Tequila

If you're after the authentic margarita flavour, a quality blanco (silver) tequila is hard to beat. Its clean, fresh agave notes work perfectly with the citrus in our Margarita Mixer.

Also try:

  • Reposado tequila for a smoother, slightly richer flavour
  • Mezcal for a smoky twist
  • Vodka for a lighter, more neutral version
  • Non-alcoholic tequila alternatives for an alcohol-free margarita

Best garnish: Salt rim and fresh lime.


Passionfruit Martini Mixer

Classic pairing: Vodka

The famous Pornstar Martini traditionally uses vodka, giving the cocktail its smooth, dessert-like finish while allowing the passionfruit to shine.

Also try:

  • Premium vodka
  • White rum for a tropical twist
  • Gin for a more botanical flavour
  • Sparkling wine served alongside for the full cocktail bar experience

Best garnish: Half a passionfruit or a slice of fresh passionfruit.


Strawberry Daiquiri Mixer

Classic pairing: White rum

This is the classic combination you'll find at beach bars around the world. White rum keeps the drink light and refreshing while complementing the sweetness of the strawberries.

Also try:

  • Coconut rum
  • Spiced rum for extra warmth
  • Vodka
  • Rosé wine blended into frozen cocktails
  • Perfect for frozen slushies during summer.

Best garnish: Fresh strawberries or a sprig of mint.


Mojito Mixer

Classic pairing: White rum

Fresh, minty and citrusy, mojitos are traditionally made with white rum, creating one of the world's most refreshing cocktails.

Also try:

  • Dark rum for a richer flavour
  • Coconut rum
  • Gin
  • Soda water for a delicious alcohol-free mojito

Best garnish: Fresh mint and lime wedges.


Feeling adventurous?

Cocktails don't always have to follow the rules.

Some of our favourite combinations include:

  • Margarita Mixer + Mezcal
  • Passionfruit Martini Mixer + Gin
  • Mojito Mixer + Coconut Rum
  • Strawberry Daiquiri Mixer + Rosé

The beauty of cocktail making is experimenting until you find your perfect serve.


How much alcohol should I add?

A good starting point is:

  • 45ml (2 oz) spirit
  • 85ml Good Cocktail Co. Mixer
  • Plenty of ice

Prefer something lighter? Simply reduce the alcohol or top up with sparkling water or soda.

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