Reata Cherry Limeade: A Taste of Texas Sunshine

There are certain drinks that, with a single sip, transport you to a specific time and place. For me, that’s the Reata Cherry Limeade. Growing up in Texas, where summer temperatures soar well into the triple digits, the siren song of an ice-cold beverage is a constant companion. While Sonic’s iconic cherry limeade is a beloved local staple, there’s something undeniably special about the version from Reata, a celebrated Fort Worth institution. It’s a drink that embodies the spirit of warm Texas days – refreshing, vibrant, and utterly satisfying, with a perfect balance of sweet and tart that cuts through the heat like a cool breeze.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes (for Sweet & Sour Mix)
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 1 (per drink, but Sweet & Sour Mix yields 4 cups)
• Yield: 1 Cocktail/Mocktail
• Dietary Type: Can be made Non-Alcoholic

Ingredients

For the Reata Cherry Limeade:

• 2 ounces cherry vodka
• 1/4 ounce grenadine
• 1/4 ounce Rose’s lime juice
• 2 ounces prepared sweet-and-sour mix (recipe below)
• 2 ounces Sprite
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedge (for garnish)
• Maraschino cherry (for garnish)

For the Reata Sweet and Sour Mix:

• 3 cups sugar
• 4 cups water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 1/2 cups lime juice, preferably fresh squeezed

Equipment Needed

• Cocktail shaker (optional, but recommended for chilling and combining)
• Jigger or measuring spoons
• Serving glass (a tall highball or tumbler glass works wonderfully)
• Bar spoon or cocktail stirrer
• Small saucepan (for Sweet & Sour Mix)
• Airtight container (for storing Sweet & Sour Mix)

Instructions

Creating the Reata Cherry Limeade is a delightful, two-part process. First, we’ll prepare the foundational sweet-and-sour mix, which, once made, will elevate all your lime-based cocktails and mocktails. Then, we’ll assemble the iconic drink itself.

Part 1: Making the Reata Sweet and Sour Mix

This homemade sweet-and-sour mix is a game-changer. It’s incredibly easy to make, and the subtle depth added by the cinnamon stick is truly what sets it apart from anything you’ll find on a store shelf. It’s a bartender’s staple for a reason – versatile and far superior to pre-bottled versions.

1. In a large saucepan, combine the 3 cups of sugar and 4 cups of water.
2. Stir the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved. This is important for a smooth, consistent base.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer.
5. Add the 1 1/2 cups of lime juice to the simmering syrup. If you can, use freshly squeezed lime juice for the brightest, most authentic flavor.
6. Simmer the mixture gently for 5 minutes. This short simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully without reducing the liquid too much.
7. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
8. Allow the mixture to cool completely. This is crucial before proceeding, as hot liquids can affect the final drink.
9. Once cooled, remove and discard the cinnamon stick. Its aromatic work is done.
10. Store the Reata Sweet and Sour Mix in an airtight container and refrigerate. This mix will keep for about 2-3 weeks and makes approximately 4 cups.

Part 2: Assembling the Reata Cherry Limeade

Now for the refreshing part! This drink comes together in mere minutes, making it perfect for a quick indulgence or to serve to guests on a warm afternoon.

1. Fill your serving glass generously with ice cubes. The colder the better for this thirst-quenching beverage.
2. Add the 2 ounces of cherry vodka to the glass.
3. Pour in the 1/4 ounce of grenadine. This will provide a beautiful rosy hue and a distinct cherry sweetness.
4. Add the 1/4 ounce of Rose’s lime juice. Rose’s lime juice has a specific sweetness and tang that is integral to many classic cocktails.
5. Measure and add 2 ounces of your prepared sweet-and-sour mix. This is where the magic from Part 1 comes into play, adding that unique spiced-lime depth.
6. Top off the glass with 2 ounces of Sprite. The effervescence of the Sprite adds a delightful fizziness that balances the other flavors.
7. Stir gently with a bar spoon or cocktail stirrer. You want to combine the ingredients without losing too much of the carbonation from the Sprite.
8. Garnish your Reata Cherry Limeade with a fresh lime wedge perched on the rim of the glass and drop in a vibrant maraschino cherry. This final touch not only adds visual appeal but also a little extra burst of flavor.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Fresh Lime Juice is King: While Rose’s lime juice is specified, if you find yourself making the sweet-and-sour mix, consider using fresh lime juice for an even brighter and more authentic flavor profile. The difference is subtle but noticeable to a discerning palate.
• Adjusting Sweetness: The Reata Sweet and Sour Mix is designed to be a balanced base. If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can slightly increase the grenadine or reduce the sweet-and-sour mix. Conversely, for a tarter drink, use a bit more lime juice in your homemade mix.
• Mocktail Magic: To create a delicious non-alcoholic version, simply omit the cherry vodka. The drink will still be incredibly refreshing and flavorful, making it a perfect choice for everyone.
• Chilling is Key: Ensure all your liquid ingredients, especially the Sprite, are well-chilled before assembly. This will help maintain the drink’s icy temperature and prevent rapid dilution.
• The Power of the Garnish: Don’t underestimate the visual and sensory impact of the garnishes. A perfectly placed lime wedge and a bright red maraschino cherry elevate the entire experience, signaling the delightful refreshment to come.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

The Reata Cherry Limeade is best served immediately after preparation while the Sprite is still bubbly and the ice is solid. Its vibrant color and refreshing aroma make it a perfect centerpiece for a casual backyard barbecue, a summer gathering, or simply as a way to unwind after a long day.

For the Reata Sweet and Sour Mix, store it in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator. It will maintain its best quality for up to 2-3 weeks. Always give it a gentle shake or stir before using, as some separation can occur. This homemade mix is incredibly versatile and can be used in other cocktails like Daiquiris or Whiskey Sours, or even as a base for marinades.

Nutritional Information

Please note that nutritional information can vary based on specific brands of ingredients used, especially for the prepared sweet-and-sour mix and grenadine. The following is an estimated breakdown for a single serving, assuming the use of regular cherry vodka and the homemade sweet-and-sour mix.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	172.7 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	0 g	0%
Total Fat	0 g	0%
Saturated Fat	0 g	0%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	7.6 mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	10.5 g	3%
Dietary Fiber	0 g	0%
Sugars	8.4 g	33%
Protein	0 g	0%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, consider muddling a thin slice of jalapeño in the glass before adding the ice and other ingredients.
• Berry Twist: While cherry is classic, experiment with other fruit-flavored vodkas or add a splash of raspberry liqueur for a different fruity dimension.
• Herbaceous Notes: A sprig of fresh mint muddled with the ice can add an unexpected layer of freshness.
• Lime Juice: If you can’t find Rose’s lime juice, you can substitute with fresh lime juice and a touch of simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved and cooled) to approximate the sweetness. However, the distinct flavor of Rose’s is part of the Reata recipe.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the sweet-and-sour mix ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The Reata Sweet and Sour Mix is designed to be made in advance and stores well in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.

Q: What kind of vodka is best for this recipe?
A: While the recipe specifies cherry vodka, a good quality unflavored vodka will also work perfectly. The cherry flavor comes primarily from the grenadine.

Q: Is this recipe alcoholic? Can I make it a mocktail?
A: Yes, the recipe includes cherry vodka. To make it a delightful non-alcoholic mocktail, simply omit the vodka. It remains incredibly refreshing and flavorful.

Q: Why is there a cinnamon stick in the sweet-and-sour mix?
A: The cinnamon stick adds a subtle, warm, and spicy undertone to the sweet-and-sour mix, creating a more complex flavor profile that distinguishes it from standard mixes.

Q: How long does the sweet-and-sour mix last in the refrigerator?
A: When stored properly in an airtight container, the Reata Sweet and Sour Mix will keep for approximately 2 to 3 weeks.

Final Thoughts

The Reata Cherry Limeade is more than just a drink; it’s a cool, effervescent embrace on a sweltering day. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when thoughtfully combined, can create something truly memorable. Whether you’re recreating a taste of Texas or simply seeking a vibrant, thirst-quenching beverage, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Gather your ingredients, mix up a batch of the sweet-and-sour, and prepare to be transported. Cheers to sunshine, good company, and the perfect cherry limeade!