Creation stories abound for the classic Margarita. The combination of tequila, triple sec, and lime juice is so natural that it really doesn’t matter who invented it (a 3:2:1 ratio is a good starting point). It’s critical to use fresh lime juice, of course. We prefer silver (also called blanco) tequila; and look for the words “100 percent blue agave” on the label. The triple sec contributes balancing sweetness, but less flavor than the other ingredients—Cointreau is always a good choice, and recently the venerable Combier brand has become available in the United States. You can also leave out the triple sec, as Mesa Grill mixologist Laurence Kretchmer does in this recipe, using agave nectar to balance the citrus.
Combine 2 oz 100 percent blue agave blanco tequila, 1 1/4 oz fresh lime juice, and 1/2 oz agave nectar in a cocktail shaker with ice; shake vigorously; strain into an ice-filled rocks glass (rimmed with salt, if desired). A lime wedge is often used as a garnish, but this Margarita is plenty tart without it.
2000s Recipes + Menus
Cocktail of the Week: Agave Margarita
Makes1 drink
05.04.09
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