Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a vibrant Mexican tradition that honors loved ones who have passed away. Unlike somber remembrances, this holiday is a joyful celebration filled with music, color, and food that connects families to their heritage. At the center of many festivities are altars (ofrendas) decorated with marigolds, candles, and favorite foods and drinks of those being honored—including tequila and mezcal, both deeply tied to Mexican culture and ritual.
At Spec’s, we love bringing flavor and tradition together. To help you toast this special holiday, we’ve created a cocktail that’s as bold and bright as the celebration itself: the Hot Honey Paloma.
Hot Honey Paloma
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Tequila
- 1 oz Hot Honey
- ½ lime (juice)
- ¼ grapefruit
- ½ blood orange
- Black salt rim
- Blood orange slice garnish (caramelized with brown sugar & torch)
- Marigold garnish
Instructions:
- Rim a rocks glass with black salt.
- In a shaker, combine tequila, hot honey, lime juice, grapefruit, and blood orange juice with ice. Shake well.
- Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a caramelized blood orange slice and a fresh marigold for a festive touch.
This cocktail brings together the sweet heat of hot honey, the citrus bite of blood orange and grapefruit, and the earthy depth of tequila—perfect for honoring the vibrant spirit of Día de los Muertos.
As the candles glow and the evening unfolds, no celebration is complete without something special to raise in remembrance. To honor the spirit of Día de los Muertos, we’ve gathered a few standout selections perfect for toasting, sharing, and savoring together.
From the bold and artistic KAH Tequila Reposado, to the crisp brightness of Tequila Exótico Blanco, and the vibrant character of Espolón Blanco, each tequila brings its own story to the table. For those who prefer a refreshing sip, Stone Brewing Buenaveza Lager adds a smooth, citrus-kissed finish that pairs beautifully with traditional flavors of the holiday.
These bottles are more than drinks—they’re companions for laughter, music, and memories that carry the celebration deep into the night.
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Honoring Tradition with Every Sip
While Day of the Dead is rooted in remembrance, it’s equally about celebration. Gathering with friends and family, sharing stories, food, and drinks, and raising a glass in honor of loved ones is a beautiful way to keep traditions alive.
Whether you’re hosting a full feast or just want a festive cocktail at home, this Hot Honey Paloma is the perfect way to blend culture, flavor, and cheer.
So stop by your local Spec’s, gather your ingredients, and celebrate life, love, and memory the spirited way.
