The Art of Drinking a Margarita
You don’t really need to follow any specific steps, when enjoying a delicious Margarita. The classic Mexican cocktailis the very definition of sitting back, making yourself comfortable and enjoy some nice afternoon sun. There are, however, a few small and interesting details that can elevate your Margarita experience to the next level: this is how you drink a Margarita.
The Right Glassware
Usually, the idea of a Margarita drink comes with its iconic glass: the sombrero, a rounder and curvier cocktail glass resembling an upside-down traditional Mexican hat (hence the name). Quite appropriate for the most famous Mexican cocktail, also considering it works perfectly to hold your Frozen Margarita. Nevertheless, you can drink a Margarita out of other kinds of glasses, depending on your needs or taste. A regular coupette will look elegant and neat, especially when enriched with a rim of saltto complement the recipe; when served in a coupette, the Margarita is described as straight up. But to drink a Margarita taking your time, to taste its more complex notes like in a Cadillac Margarita, it is recommended to use a tumbler glass and serve your cocktail on the rocks (another term to indicate on ice): this will grant your Margarita to keep its cold temperature, while minimizing the dilution and maintaining the flavor balance.
Techniques for Tasting
Tasting a Margarita involves three phases, each of them related to a different sense and all of them equally important to live a unique experience. The first phase is related to the sight: take a few seconds to enjoy the vivid color of your Margarita, it’s emerald hue and the characteristic cloudy beauty. Then, it’s about the aroma: the earthy tequila notes pair with the freshness of the lime and give way to Grand Marnier, its round orange liqueur gently nuanced by the cognac base. Finally, the taste: savor the salt adding its sparkle to the Margarita’s gentle and intriguing flavor, elevated by Grand Marnier and its silky texture. Perfect, isn’t it?
Pairing and Occasions
A Margarita is the perfect answer when you are looking for a cocktail with a fresh taste to be enjoyed in a summer late afternoon, outdoors or at home. The warm season is definitely the most suitable time to have a Margarita, though this iconic Mexican cocktail can be perfect for any month of the year, and it’s a must during specific occasion like Cinco de Mayo. Given its tradition and historical value, the perfect pairing for a Margarita would be with some Mexican delicacies, such as quesadillas, fajitas, chili con carne and tacos. But don’t be shy and experiment with some more complex dishes if you like: the aromatic notes of a Margarita work wonders with the freshness of a ceviche, or complements the full body of meat like chorizo.
The Grand Marnier Touch
The traditional formula for the Margarita is simple, yet brilliantly enjoyable: tequila (possibly 100% agave such as Espolòn), fresh lime juice and an orange liqueur, that combine to create the perfect late afternoon sipper. Using Grand Marnier elevates the Margarita to a new height of taste, keeping its approachable and easygoing identity and adding a new layer of richness: the cognac base provides the cocktail with an elegant profile, and the silky, smooth texture makes the whole Margarita a new, memorable experience.