How to make a Ancholito Luxury Drop Cocktail (2026)

The Ancholito Luxury Drop is a creative tequila shot (or “luxury drop”) designed as an interactive, flavour-layered experience rather than a standard mixed cocktail. It combines the smoothness of aged tequila with sweet chocolate, spicy ancho chilli, juicy watermelon, and a touch of lime for a bold, sensual contrast of flavour’s.

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Background

Bartender H. Joseph Ehrmann of Elixir in San Francisco created it (courtesy of Tequila Don Julio). It gained attention around Valentine’s Day as part of “anti-Valentine’s” or fun, celebratory drink lists—ideal for singles, groups, or anyone wanting something playful and elevated beyond a plain shot. The name plays on “Ancho” (from ancho chilli) and “cholito” (a nod to chocolate or a fun twist), evoking Mexican-inspired indulgence.

Ingredients (per serving)

• 1 ½ oz Don Julio Añejo tequila (or another high-quality añejo for its caramel, vanilla, and oak notes)
• Sweetened cocoa powder (for a chocolate rim/element)
• Ancho chilli powder (for spicy heat)
• Fresh watermelon (cut into small, flat triangles with the rind on the smallest edge)
• 1 lime (for moistening the rim)

Preparation & Serving Method

This drink is all about the ritual—it’s meant to be experienced step by step for maximum flavor

Instructions

1. Cut small, flat watermelon triangles (rind forming the pointed/smallest edge for easy handling).
2. Place sweetened cocoa powder in one shallow dish/plate and ancho chilli powder in another.
3. Cut the lime and use it to moisten half the rim/edge of a shot glass (or small fluted glass).
4. Dip the moistened half-rim into the cocoa powder.
5. Fill the glass with the 1½ oz of añejo tequila.
6. Dip the pointed end of a watermelon triangle into the ancho chilli powder.
7. To drink: Bite and chew the chilli-coated watermelon first (to release the juicy, spicy-sweet flavours), then lick the cocoa from the rim, and finally wash it all down with the tequila shot. Let the flavours mingle in your mouth before swallowing.

Glass: Shot glass or small fluted glass. No traditional liquid garnish—the watermelon slice acts as both garnish and interactive component.

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Flavor Profile

• Sweet & chocolatey from the cocoa.
• Spicy & earthy from the ancho chilli powder.
• Juicy & refreshing from the watermelon.
• Smooth & rich from the añejo tequila.

The result is a fun, multi-sensory “drop” where sweet, heat, fruit, and spirit collide. It’s not overly complicated but feels luxurious due to the premium tequila and the playful eating/drinking sequence. Perfect for parties, tastings, or themed events with a Mexican flair.

If you’re making it at home, adjust the chilli powder to your spice tolerance—start light if you’re sensitive to heat. Variations could swap in different añejos or add a tiny pinch of salt, but the original keeps it simple and interactive. Salud!