Fiesta faves

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with beverage classics

Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s Independence Day. That’s September 16. Instead, the 5th of May celebrates the 1862 Battle of Puebla, which resulted in a Mexican victory over France during the FrancoMexican war. Cinco de Mayo is not a hugely observed holiday in Mexico. But in the United States, it has become an extremely popular celebration of Mexican heritage and culture.

Whether your Cinco de Mayo consists of a trip to your local Mexican restaurant or staying at home and making your own Mexican dishes, there is one essential element that you can’t forget: libations! From beer to margaritas and from tequila to mezcal, there is a huge assortment of alcoholic beverages that can kick-start your fiesta

To me, the obvious drink of choice, and one of the most consumed cocktails in the United States, according to Nielsen data, is the classic margarita. You can make your own margarita using the standard recipe, consisting of orange liqueur, tequila and fresh lime juice. Or, if you want to make it easy, you can grab pre-mixed Kirkland Signature™ Margarita Cocktail Mix at your local Costco warehouse (where sold).

If margaritas are not your preference, consider a refreshing cerveza (beer) with a slice of lime. Or mix your favorite Mexican beer with tomato juice, ice, lime juice, hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce, and coat the rim of the glass with lime juice, salt and/or Tajín seasoning to make a michelada. And if you’d like to keep things really simple, mix a good-quality silver tequila with soda water and a squeeze of lime. This is often called ranch water or, simply, tequila and soda, and it’s perfect for a sunny afternoon.

Whatever you choose to do this coming Cinco de Mayo, please remember to enjoy the day and stay safe. Salud!

Costco Connection: Mexican beer is available in select Costco warehouses, while supplies last, along with other Cinco de Mayo sips.

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