Kino Bay is noted for stunning views over the fabled Sea of Cortez, accented every evening by wonderful Technicolor sunsets. After many years of Gin and Tonics, Cuba Libres, and yes, maybe even a few too many Margaritas on the beach, we felt the need for a drink that better summed up the essence of Kino and the state of Sonora.
With the help of three able and highly qualified assistants, Gloria Brandt, Glenda Orsborn, and Carolyn Kinsman — all well-schooled in the 'liquid arts' — we at Casa Tortuga developed a new mixed drink (like the world really needs a new mixed drink!) to better summarize the 'Kino Bay Experience.' With lots of local flavor and juices – and spirits unique to Sonora, like Bacanora – a cold and colorful glassful expresses the magic of the Sonoran desert at the edge of the Sea. We call it a Kino Sunset in honor of our beautiful evenings, our distinctive local flavors, and the 5 o'clock (or so) traditions we follow on this beautiful and gentle beach. Enjoy a cold refreshing Kino Sunset as you experience your own glorious sunset on the Sea of Cortez!
Fill a 16 oz. drink glass with ice cubes.
Add:
1 shot clear Bacanora (not the smokey, sipping kind)
1 shot Controy (or Cointreau) orange liqueur
Fill to within 1/2" of top with a mixture of 1/2 fresh local orange juice, and 1/2 mango juice
Add juice of 1/2 large Mexican lime
Add a dash of bitters
Stir well
Pour in a healthy splash of Grenadine (that's the 'sunset' part)
Drop 1/2 orange slice right down the middle. (It'll taste great after you finish the drink!)
Variations (instead of Bacanora):
Use Tequila for a Mexican Sunset (Puesta del Sol 'Mexicano')
Use dark rich Rum for a Havana Sunset
Best wishes from the beach!
Perry R Wilkes and Carolyn J. Kinsman
Casa Tortuga
Bahia de Kino, Sonora, MX