El Diablo

Most people probably think of the margarita first when they think of traditional tequila drinks, followed by the paloma. They should, but they might never reach the El Diablo. This mid-century classic blends tequila with ginger, lime juice, and crème de cassis, a sweet blackcurrant liqueur.

Discover the El Diablo Cocktail: A Timeless Classic

The El Diablo cocktail, originally known as the Mexican El Diablo, has a storied history that dates back to the 1946 publication of Trader Vic’s Book of Food and Drink. In this book, the renowned bartender Victor Bergeron, affectionately known as Trader Vic, is credited as the creator of this delightful drink. Over the years, the name has been shortened to just "El Diablo," and its recipe has evolved, offering both traditional and modern variations.

The Origins and Evolution of the El Diablo

In its earliest form, the El Diablo called for ginger ale, which at the time was notably spicier than today’s typical versions. This spiciness made it resemble ginger beer more closely, lending the cocktail a unique flavor profile. In contemporary recipes, ginger beer is favored to better capture the traditional essence of the El Diablo, enhancing its bold flavors.

Crafting the Perfect El Diablo

One of the great features of the El Diablo is its versatility in preparation. There are two main methods for crafting this cocktail, each yielding a visually stunning and delicious result.

Method 1: Shaken and Strained

1. Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 ounces reposado tequila
• 1/2 ounce crème de cassis
• 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
• 3 ounces ginger beer
• Garnish: lime wedge

1. Steps:

• Combine the tequila crème de cassis and lime juice in a shaker filled with ice.
• Shake well until chilled.
• Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice.
• Top off with ginger beer and garnish with a lime wedge.

This method results in a gorgeous reddish-purple cocktail that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Method 2: Built in the Glass

For a more visually striking presentation, consider building the drink directly in the glass:

1. Steps:

• Start with the reposado tequila and freshly squeezed lime juice in the glass.
• Add fresh ice, then pour in the ginger beer.
• Finally, float the crème de cassis on top to create a rich halo effect that slowly mixes into the drink.

This method not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an element of anticipation as the flavors meld together.

Modern Variations

Today, many mixologists have begun experimenting with the El Diablo by incorporating fresh ginger syrup instead of ginger beer. This adaptation often calls for a top-off of sparkling water to avoid overwhelming the palate with ginger flavor. This fresh take adds a new dimension to the cocktail while maintaining the core elements that make the El Diablo so beloved.

Conclusion

The El Diablo cocktail is a testament to the art of mixology, blending earthy tequila, zesty lime, sweet crème de cassis, and spicy ginger. Whether you choose the classic shaken method or the visually captivating build-in-glass approach, this cocktail offers a delightful balance of flavors that is sure to impress. With its rich history and versatile nature, the El Diablo remains a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast. So, gather your ingredients, choose your preferred method, and savor the experience of this timeless drink. Cheers!