60 Years of Clamato: The Original Michelada Essential

For 60 years, Clamato® tomato cocktail has turned an unexpected blend of tomato juice, spices and clam broth into one of North America’s most iconic mixers. As the brand celebrates its 60th anniversary and in honor of Michelada Day (July 12), we’re diving into how a bold idea became a staple of gatherings and celebrations across generations.

A Flavor Idea Decades in the Making

When Mott’s (now part of Keurig Dr Pepper) introduced Clamato tomato cocktail in 1966, the goal was ambitious: create a bold drink inspired by the flavors of Manhattan clam chowder.

The result was a distinctive blend of tomato juice, clam broth and spices that delivered something entirely new for cocktail lovers and offered a savory profile optimized specifically for mixing.

From Product to Cultural Staple

Clamato quickly became part of drinking traditions across North America.

In Canada, Clamato’s legacy is inseparable from the Caesar. Created in Calgary, Alberta, in 1969, the Caesar turned Mott’s Clamato into the defining ingredient of a drink Canadians claimed as their own. What started as a local cocktail became a national ritual: officially recognized by Parliament as Canada’s national cocktail in 2009, enjoyed more than 400 million times a year and celebrated every May on National Caesar Day. More than a cocktail, the Caesar is a proudly Canadian tradition, with Mott’s Clamato at its core. The brand in Canada has also expanded into the ready-to-drink space, offering a broad portfolio of premixed cocktails, as well as a 0% alcohol mocktail option. From the bold kick of Extra Spicy Caesar to Caesarita and Gin Caesar varieties, the lineup continues to evolve to meet changing consumer preferences and occasions.

Across Mexico and the U.S., it became a defining ingredient in many Michelada recipes, adding its signature savory flavor to a beer cocktail that had long been a beloved part of Mexican drinking culture. Today, the Michelada— typically made with beer, lime, spice and Clamato —has evolved from a regional favorite into a fast-growing mainstream obsession, enjoyed at backyard barbecues, brunches, game days and more.

Still Bringing People Together After 60 Years

Six decades after its debut, Clamato continues to evolve with consumers and culture. As the Official Michelada Mix of the Mexican National Team, Clamato is tapping into one of the biggest summers in soccer, helping fans elevate match days and watch parties with the drink that has become synonymous with the occasion. As new generations discover the Michelada, Clamato remains at the center of the ritual—proving that bold ideas stand the test of time.

As the category leader in Mexico, Clamato is also debuting “Se antoja ¿No?” (Tasty, right?), a new nationwide campaign designed to reinforce its iconic status while inspiring consumers to make the drink their own. By showcasing the many ways Clamato can be customized—from lemon and salt to unique personal twists—the campaign celebrates the creativity and versatility that have helped keep the brand at the heart of Mexican drinking culture for 60 years.