A drink called ranch water might not sound very good, nor particularly elevated, but this delicious cocktail combines tequila, lime, and Topo Chico (sparkling mineral water) for a delightfully refreshing beverage packed with subtle flavor.

The ranch water name has nothing to do with the stuff you dip your buffalo wings in; it’s inspired by a Texas rancher who supposedly created the drink in the 1960s. Known as the “unofficial cocktail of West Texas,” ranch water has become popular far beyond the Lone Star State, and with summer heat in full swing, it’s a great option for casual get-togethers and elaborate backyard celebrations alike.

You may see canned, ready-to-drink ranch water cocktails with other trendy hard seltzers at your local grocery store or liquor store, but it’s also super simple to make a ranch water at home.

The beauty of ranch water is that there’s no exact science to perfecting this drink, so feel free to adjust it to your taste preferences. If you want a spicier take, try a Tajín or chile salt rim, or experiment with fruity twists on the drink by using flavored Topo Chico.

Ranch Water Ingredients

The ranch water calls for just three ingredients, plus ice and an optional garnish. To make a ranch water cocktail you only need tequila, lime juice, and sparkling mineral water, all combined and poured over ice.

Most recipes (including ours!) calls for Topo Chico brand water, specifically, but you could technically use any brand of sparkling mineral water. Texas natives will argue that nothing else compares to Topo Chico, though.