Mojito vs. Margarita: What's the Difference?

Mojito vs. Margarita: What's the Difference?

In the world of alcoholic beverages, you’re bound to find people with all different kinds of taste preferences and levels of mixology knowledge. However, even those who know little to nothing about bartending know how delicious mojitos and margaritas can be. 

These two drinks are some of the most popular cocktails in bars and restaurants, and it’s easy to see why. They’re refreshing, delicious, and light, and they leave us feeling ready for wherever the day brings us. 

Also, both concoctions can be highly customized so that every palate can find something to enjoy. No matter what, each beverage is characterized by a perfect balance of flavors that make for a full-bodied drinking experience.

Whether you prefer a classic margarita or constantly seek out new margarita recipes, the balance of sour, tangy, and sweet keeps us coming back for more. This perfect blend is also found in mojitos, another of the most refreshing drinks out there. 

These drinks can be enjoyed at home or served by the most experienced bartender in your city. Either way, we can’t get enough of them. Now that we’ve established some of the traits that these two drinks have in common, let’s delve into what separates mojitos and margaritas.

What Is a Mojito?

First, we’re going to explore what exactly a mojito is. Where does this refreshing beverage come from, and how is it best enjoyed? Knowing this context makes the drinking experience that much more rewarding. A classic mojito only features a few key ingredients, allowing each of them to shine individually.

To begin making a mojito, muddlefresh mint leaves and a lime wedge in the bottom of a highball glass. Alternatively, you can also add fresh lime juice to get the same tropical flavor. 

Next, mix in either sugar or simple syrup, and add the desired amount of ice. Keep in mind that when it comes to mojitos, colder is better! 

Finally, pour in white rum and club soda or soda water to finish off a traditional mojito recipe. Feel free to garnish with additional mint or lime, and you’re ready for happy hour.

If this feels like a lot of work, never fear — our Canned Mojito Variety Pack has three delicious flavors to choose from, and enjoying these refreshing beverages is as easy as cracking open the can. 

The History of the Mojito

How exactly the mojito was invented is an oft-debated topic. This is yet another trait that mojitos and margaritas have in common. 

Many of the most popular cocktails out there have storied pasts, and it’s difficult to trace back to what the truth really is. While we might not know the precise origins of the mojito (or the margarita, for that matter), there are some key pieces of information regarding this beverage that we do know for sure.

We are certain that the mojito has Cuban roots, but almost every other detail is murky. One of the most popular theories is that the cocktail was founded after Sir Francis Drake failed to pillage gold from Havana, Cuba. In celebration, a drink called the Draque was created. Several centuries later, in the 1800s, the main alcohol in the drink was replaced with rum, and the name was changed to mojito.

We may never know the specific roots of this beloved beverage, but we can be thankful that it’s still popular today.

What Foods Pair Best With Mojitos?

In honor of the mojito’s Cuban origins, it’s best enjoyed with delicious Cuban fare. Plantains and beans pair wonderfully with a mojito. Similar to margaritas, mojitos also taste delicious with various kinds of Mexican food. Tacos with light ingredients like shrimp and jackfruit are delightful with this refreshing drink.

A recipe that contains lime as a prominent ingredient is an excellent pairing as well since lime is such a significant part of any classic mojito.

What Are the Best Types of Mojitos?

If you’re searching for a mojito that will have you and your dinner guests feeling refreshed, it’s hard to go wrong with the Mojito Variety Pack

What Is a Margarita?

To make a margarita, you only need a few ingredients. First, you’ll need tequila, so choose your favorite. Then, grab an orange liqueur like triple sec or Cointreau. Finally, plenty of lime juice will give your drink a perfect bold finish. 

It really is that simple — but grabbing a pre-made option from our Margarita Variety Pack is even simpler. 

The History of the Margarita

Just like the mojito, the margarita’s history isn’t perfectly clear. We know that the drink originated in Mexico, but we don’t know much beyond that. Some reports say it was invented in Tijuana in the 1940s, while others estimate that the drink was founded in the 1930s.

What Foods Pair Best With Margaritas?

No backyard party would be complete without good drinks and good eats. Mexican food and margaritas are a match made in heaven, perhaps because margaritas were founded in Mexico. Tacos, fajitas, and nachos all bring out the best in a margarita, and vice versa.

What Are the Best Types of Margaritas?

In short, the best margaritas are those that make you feel joyful. You should enjoy the beverage while you’re drinking it, and that happiness should stay with you throughout the night.

here are a few delicious varieties you can enjoy from Flying Embers. 

Classic Lime, Strawberry Guava, and Blood Orange Pomegranate can all be found in our Margarita Variety Pack. The pack truly has something for everyone, making for a wonderful addition to any margarita tasting party with friends.

Mojito vs. Margarita: Is One Better Than the Other?

This question depends on your predference. There are so many ways to customize both drinks. In reality, these two drinks might have more in common than they do separating them. Por qué no los dos?

Both Are Classic Cocktails

Clearly, each of these drinks has a storied past that is somewhat contested. That being said, we do know that each has been around for a long time and is often ordered at bars. These drinks are both more than the sum of their parts, making them classics.

Both Have Unique Flavors

Whether you opt for a frozen margarita or a fruity mojito, both of these drinks have so many new and exciting flavors and textures to try. The sour-sweetness of the margarita in contrast to the refreshing nature of the mojito means that both drinks offer something of their own.

Of course, some flavors pair better with one than the other. While both our Mojito and Margarita variety packs include lime offerings, you’ll only find Strawberry Guava and Blood Orange Pomegranate in our Margarita Variety Pack. Meanwhile, our Canned Mojito Variety Pack includes the bright tastes of Watermelon and Mango for a refreshing and fruity delight.

Try Both Before Deciding Which You Prefer

There’s no need to tie yourself down by declaring yourself a margarita fan or a mojito lover for life. Try both drinks, and don’t be afraid to sample different varieties! That’s the only way to find out what you really love the most.

Premium Ready-To-Drink Mojitos and Margaritas

Liking margaritas and mojitos doesn’t have to be an either-or debate. Both cocktails are delicious, refreshing, and light. If enjoying both of them is wrong, we don’t want to be right!

 

Sources:

Mojito Cocktail History | Difford's Guide

The History of the Margarita and How To Make It Right | Wine Enthusiast

23 Most Popular Bar Drinks Ever – Classic Cocktails You Should Know | Town and Country Magazine