In a cocktail shaker, add 2 oz blanco tequila, 1 oz fresh lime juice, 1 oz orange liqueur, 0.5 oz simple syrup (optional), and a handful of ice (~1 cup). Cap and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until well-chilled.

Strain and garnish

Double-strain (or single-strain if you prefer a bit of texture) into the prepared glass over fresh ice or serve neat in a chilled coupe. Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge.

Moscow Mule

Build in mug

Fill a copper mule mug (or highball glass) with ice (~1 cup). Pour in 2 oz vodka and 0.5 oz fresh lime juice.

Top and finish

Top with 4 oz ginger beer and add 2 dashes Angostura bitters if using. Gently stir once to combine. Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of mint.

Old Fashioned

Sweeten and bitter

In an Old Fashioned glass, add 0.25 oz simple syrup (or place 1 sugar cube in the glass and saturate with 2 dashes bitters). If using a sugar cube, muddle lightly with the bitters until dissolved.

Add whiskey and ice

Add 2 oz bourbon or rye and one large ice cube (or several smaller cubes). Stir gently for 20–30 seconds to chill and lightly dilute.

Garnish

Express an orange peel over the glass (twist to release oils), rub the rim with the peel, and drop it into the drink.

Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Lemonade

Mix base

In a Collins or highball glass filled with ice (~1 cup), combine 1 oz fresh lemon juice and 0.75 oz simple syrup. Stir briefly to combine.

Top and garnish

Top with 4 oz sparkling water or club soda and stir gently. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a mint sprig if desired.