If you’re wondering, “Can you mix tequila and vodka?” The answer is yes. Mixing two hard liquors may seem like a recipe for a bad hangover. But if you carefully balance the flavors and alcohol, you can make a refreshing drink that goes down easy while packing a punch. Mixing tequila and vodka is more common than you may think. These two strong liquors are often combined to create popular cocktails like the Long Island Iced Tea. Both liquors complement each other because of their unique tastes and character profiles. While tequila adds flavor and aroma, vodka makes the best base for mixed drinks. 

They also have their fair share of interesting facts and backgrounds. For vodka, it’s believed that the word originated from the Russian word “voda,” which means “water.” True to its name, Russians drink vodka like water: pure and chilled. Meanwhile, tequila’s roots go back to the Aztecs, who made pulque from agave sap. This article will explore the differences and similarities between vodka and tequila and why they make an ideal mixing pair.

Tequila and Vodka: Differences and Similarities

Tequila and vodka share some similarities and a few key differences that set them apart. Here are a few of them:

Alcohol Content

Vodka and tequila have similar alcohol contents, so you might have to look elsewhere if you’re looking for something with lower proof. Both have 80–100 proof, meaning they have 40–50% alcohol by volume (ABV). Tequila and vodka are “strong” liquors when compared to other alcoholic beverages such as beers and wines.

Distillation Process 

Vodka and tequila are produced through fermentation and distillation, which uses heat to increase the alcohol content. Vodka is made by distilling fermented grains, while tequila is from the blue agave plant. The distillation process is critical for the quality of spirits. The higher the quality of the distillation process, the fewer impurities and congeners, or substances that cause a severe hangover, are produced. Thus, clear-colored vodka and light-colored tequila have a milder hangover than dark drinks like bourbon.

Flavor Profile

The flavor profiles of tequila and vodka are as diverse as their varieties. The no-fuss plain vodka is primarily water and ethanol, producing a neutral taste like straight alcohol with an intense aftertaste. Thus, it’s an excellent base for any mixed drink. However, there are also fruity-flavored vodkas, sweet and smoky grain vodkas, and more. 

Meanwhile, the aging process influences the flavors of tequila. Typically, tequila’s blue agave produces a sweet, fruity note with a spicy aftertaste. However, tequila varieties like the Blanco, aged in a barrel for 60 days, taste smooth and peppery, while the Reposado, aged 2–11 months, tastes earthy, herbal, and warm. Añejo tequila has even more flavors, ranging from floral and citrus notes, oak, and vanilla, to the pure agave flavor.

Mixing Tequila and Vodka

So, if you’re still asking, “Can you mix tequila and vodka?” We have a few cocktail recipes to show you why their combination works. 

Infographic image of tequila and vodka cocktails

Long Island Iced Tea

This popular drink is one of the best examples of a good tequila-vodka drink. Mix tequila, vodka, rum, gin, Triple Sec, and lemon juice into a shaker with ice. Give it a good shake, pour it into a glass, and top it off with cola.

Mexi-tini 

This drink combines equal parts orange vodka, tequila, and orange juice in a shaker with crushed ice. Shake and strain into a martini glass for a colorful and citrusy cocktail.

Vodka and Tequila Margarita

Add a twist to the classic margarita by adding vodka. Throw some ice into a shaker, then pour some vodka, tequila, lime juice, and agave nectar. Shake well, then strain into a salt-rimmed glass with ice. 

Soul Taker

This potent drink mixes equal parts amaretto, vodka, and tequila. You should take this straight without ice. 

G4 Tequila + Your Favorite Vodka

Vodka and tequila can be mixed in various ways to create smooth, easy drinks with a kick. If you plan to kick back and relax or throw a party, G4 Tequilas has the bottle for you. Whether you prefer Blanco’s crisp, aged taste or Reposado’s mellow undertones, you will be satisfied with our authentic and finest tequila selection. G4 Tequilas has something for everyone, from the most discerning connoisseur to the casual drinker.

Our award-winning tequilas are more than a drink; they set the standard. Our premium tequilas start with high-quality agave, which we cultivate using cutting-edge sustainable technology, and end with a meticulous distillation process. 

We have made it simple for you to purchase G4 tequila by partnering with trusted retailers and distributors nationwide. You can also use our store locator to find us. You can reach us at (312) 796-6483 or here for more assistance.