CLASSIC MARGARITA COCKTAIL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 2 Ounces Blanco Tequila
- 1 Ounce Lime Juice
- 1 Ounce Triple Sec (Cointreau)
- 1 Lime Wheel (optional)
- 1 Lime Wedge (optional)
- Kocher Salt (optional)
Method
- If you'd like to, rim the glass with salt. To do this, run a lime around the rim of the glass, then dip the rim into a small plate of salt.
- Combine the tequila, lime juice, and triple sec in a shaker with ice.
- Shake for 12-15 seconds.
- Strain the cocktail into the glass, and place a lime wheel on the rim.
- Enjoy!
Recipe Tips
Please use fresh lime juice for this recipe, so you can capture the fresh and natural flavor of the true classic margarita.
This is a fairly strong cocktail, so you can play around with the quantities of the Tequila and Cointreau to your own taste.
If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add a sweetener. Agave syrup best compliments the classic margarita, but simple syrup will still add the sweetness you desire.
What Is A Classic Margarita?
A classic margarita is a cocktail made from tequila, triple sec, and lime juice. It has a sweet and sour citrus taste, and it is often served with a salted rim and a lime wheel for garnish. It originated from the "Daisy" cocktail, which was made with some combination of a spirit (such as rum, brandy, vodka, gin, tequila...) and liqueur, shaken with fresh lime juice.
What's In A Classic Margarita?
To craft a classic margarita, you'll need 2 parts tequila, 1 part triple sec, and 1 part fresh lime juice.
Best Tequila For A Classic Margarita Cocktail
When it comes to selecting the tequila, you have two primary options: Blanco and Reposado. Blanco tequila, unaged and not exposed to a barrel, reigns supreme for a classic margarita. This choice allows the true essence of the agave to shine through, delivering the authentic agave taste that defines this cocktail. On the other hand, Reposado tequila, having undergone a period of aging in oak barrels, possesses a distinct oaky flavor profile. While Reposado tequila can be enjoyed in other tequila-based drinks, the classic margarita's charm lies in the vibrant agave notes of a Blanco.
Best Triple Sec For A Classic Margarita Cocktail
Triple sec serves as the sweetening agent and imparts the delightful orange flavor that complements the margarita's character. For an unrivaled taste experience, Cointreau stands as the only choice. Although it may carry a slightly higher price tag compared to other triple secs, its exceptional flavor and smoothness make it 100% worth it. Additionally, Cointreau boasts a robust ABV of 40%, enhancing the overall potency of the drink.
Lime Juice In A Classic Margarita Cocktail
While store-bought lime juice can still yield a decent margarita, the unparalleled excellence lies in utilizing fresh lime juice. Freshly squeezed lime juice offers a bolder and more vibrant flavor profile, elevating the entire cocktail experience. In fact, the use of fresh lime juice can negate the need for additional sweeteners like agave syrup, providing a naturally full-bodied taste that tantalizes the palate.