Clamato
Clamato is a commercially produced tomato-based beverage made by blending tomato juice with clam broth and seasonings.
Clamato is a commercially produced tomato-based beverage made by blending tomato juice with clam broth and seasonings. It is best known as a mixer for cocktails, especially the Canadian Caesar, and is also used in beer-based drinks such as micheladas.
Overview
Clamato is a tomato-based drink mixed with clam broth and spices. It is marketed as a cocktail mixer and is widely used in savoury alcoholic drinks.
History
Clamato was introduced in 1966 and became associated with North American drinking culture. Its name combines the words “clam” and “tomato.”
Culinary use
Clamato is most often used in mixed drinks, especially the Caesar cocktail in Canada. It is also used in micheladas and other savoury beverages, and sometimes as a cooking ingredient.
Canadian significance
Clamato has a strong association with Canada because it is central to the Caesar, a drink widely considered a Canadian classic. It is one of the beverage’s best-known cultural uses.
Key facts
- Clamato is a savoury beverage made from tomato juice and clam broth, usually with added spices and seasonings.
- The name is a portmanteau of “clam” and “tomato.”
- It is especially associated with Canada, where it is the key mixer in the Caesar cocktail.
- It is also used in Mexico and parts of the United States, particularly in micheladas and similar drinks.
- Clamato is sold as a commercial product by Mott’s and was introduced in 1966.
Clamato is strongly associated with Canada because it is the defining mixer in the Caesar, a cocktail widely regarded as a Canadian classic.
Frequently asked questions
What is Clamato?
Does Clamato contain real clam?
What is Clamato used for?
Who makes Clamato?
When was Clamato introduced?
References
- Kiddle — https://kids.kiddle.co/ClamatoSupports: Basic description of Clamato, name origin, and use in Canada and as a Caesar mixer.
- Bloody Marys — https://www.bloody-marys.com/2026/05/12/what-is-clamato-actually-made-of/Supports: States that Clamato was made by Mott’s since 1966 and describes ingredients and Canadian Caesar use.
- Wide Open Country — https://www.wideopencountry.com/clamato/Supports: Describes Clamato as tomato juice with clam broth and notes its use in Canada and Mexico in drinks such as micheladas and Caesars.
- GFI Foods — https://www.gfifoods.com/beverages/32346-motts-clamatoSupports: Identifies Clamato as the original tomato cocktail from concentrate and notes its use in a Michelada.