📝 About This Recipe
Born in the golden age of Mexican hospitality, the Margarita is a masterclass in the holy trinity of mixology: sweet, sour, and spirit. This recipe elevates the classic by utilizing high-altitude 100% Blue Weber Agave Tequila and a touch of agave nectar to deepen the botanical notes of the lime. It is a crisp, sophisticated, and bracingly refreshing cocktail that balances citrus brightness with an earthy, velvety finish.
🥗 Ingredients
The Spirits
- 2 ounces Blanco Tequila (100% Agave, chilled if possible)
- 1 ounce Cointreau or Premium Orange Liqueur (avoid generic triple sec for better depth)
The Citrus & Sweetener
- 1 ounce Fresh Lime Juice (approximately 1.5 medium limes, freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 ounce Agave Nectar (light or amber variety)
The Salt Rim & Garnish
- 1 tablespoon Maldon Sea Salt or Coarse Kosher Salt (flaky texture is best)
- 1/4 teaspoon Chili Powder or Tajín (optional, for a spicy rim)
- 1 slice Lime Wheel (cut 1/8 inch thick)
- 1 piece Fresh Mint Sprig (optional, for aromatic garnish)
Ice Requirements
- 1 cup Large Ice Cubes (for shaking; dense ice prevents over-dilution)
- 1/2 cup Fresh Ice (for serving in the glass)
👨🍳 Instructions
-
1
Place your rocks glass or coupe in the freezer for at least 5-10 minutes to ensure a crisp, cold drinking experience.
-
2
Prepare the rimming station by spreading the sea salt (and chili powder, if using) in a small, flat saucer in an even layer.
-
3
Take a spent lime wedge and run it around the outer half of the rim of the chilled glass; avoid the inside of the rim so salt doesn't fall into the drink.
-
4
Gently press the dampened rim into the salt, rotating slowly to achieve a consistent, beautiful crust.
-
5
Juice your limes using a hand-press juicer; ensure you measure exactly 1 ounce, as citrus acidity can vary.
-
6
In a heavy-bottomed cocktail shaker, pour in the 2 ounces of Blanco Tequila.
-
7
Add the 1 ounce of orange liqueur and the 1 ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice to the shaker.
-
8
Add the 1/4 ounce of agave nectar; this small amount acts as a bridge between the sharp lime and the earthy tequila.
-
9
Fill the shaker at least two-thirds full with large, solid ice cubes.
-
10
Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker is frosted and painfully cold to the touch.
-
11
Double strain the mixture through a Hawthorne strainer and a fine-mesh sieve into the prepared glass to remove ice shards and lime pulp.
-
12
If serving on the rocks, gently add fresh ice to the glass now, being careful not to disturb the salt rim.
-
13
Cut a small slit in your lime wheel and perch it elegantly on the rim of the glass.
-
14
Express the oils of a mint sprig by slapping it against your palm and tuck it next to the lime for an aromatic boost.
-
15
Serve immediately while the drink is at its peak aeration and temperature.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always use 100% Agave Tequila; 'mixto' tequilas contain cane sugar and lead to harsh flavors and headaches. Fresh lime juice is non-negotiable—bottled juice has a metallic preservative taste that ruins the balance. Shake the cocktail like you mean it; the goal is to create tiny air bubbles (aeration) that give the drink a velvety mouthfeel. If you prefer a 'Cadillac' style, float a half-ounce of Grand Marnier on top of the finished drink. To control sweetness, start with less agave nectar and adjust to your palate before pouring.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with spicy Mahi-Mahi tacos topped with mango salsa to complement the citrus notes. Serve alongside a bowl of warm, salted tortilla chips and charred tomatillo guacamole. Excellent with ceviche or any raw seafood dish marinated in citrus. For a vegetarian pairing, try grilled street corn (elote) with cotija cheese and lime. Works beautifully as a refreshing aperitif before a heavy Mexican feast.