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The Margarita: The history behind the iconic cocktail
05/03/2025
The Margarita: The History Behind the Iconic Cocktail
Imagine yourself on a sun-kissed beach, the sound of waves gently lapping at the shore, and the warmth of a golden sunset on your skin. In your hand, a glass rimmed with salt, filled with a refreshing blend of tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur – the quintessential margarita. This iconic cocktail has been the star of countless gatherings, from casual backyard barbecues to sophisticated cocktail parties. But have you ever wondered where this delightful drink came from? Let's dive into the fascinating history of the margarita, explore how to make one, and uncover the truth behind its Mexican roots.
What is a Margarita?
The margarita is a beloved cocktail that has captured the hearts of drinkers worldwide. This refreshing concoction typically consists of tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, served in a salt-rimmed glass. Its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and salty flavours has made it a staple in bars and restaurants, as well as a popular choice for at-home mixologists.
The Origins of the Margarita
The history of the margarita is as intoxicating as the drink itself, shrouded in mystery and conflicting origin stories. While the exact inventor remains unknown, most accounts place its creation between the 1930s and 1940s.
One popular tale attributes the margarita's invention to Carlos "Danny" Herrera in 1938 at his restaurant, Rancho La Gloria, near Tijuana. Herrera allegedly created the drink for a picky customer, Marjorie King, who was allergic to all spirits except tequila.
Another story credits Dallas socialite Margarita Sames with inventing the cocktail at her Acapulco vacation home in 1948. According to this version, Tommy Hilton was among the guests and later introduced the drink to the Hilton hotel chain.
However, cocktail historian David Wondrich suggests a more plausible origin. He proposes that the margarita evolved from the brandy daisy, a popular cocktail family in the early 20th century. The Spanish word for "daisy" is "margarita," supporting the theory that the drink was simply a tequila-based variation of this classic cocktail.
How to Make a Margarita
Learning how to make a margarita is essential for any aspiring home bartender. The classic recipe typically follows these steps:
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Rim a glass with salt
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Combine 2 oz tequila, 1 oz lime juice, and 1 oz orange liqueur in a shaker with ice
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Shake vigorously and strain into the prepared glass
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Garnish with a lime wheel
While this traditional method remains popular, modern variations have emerged to cater to different tastes and convenience. For those seeking a quick fix, options like margarita in a can or margarita in a bottle have become increasingly available, offering a taste of this classic cocktail without the need for mixing.
Are Margaritas Mexican?
The question "are margaritas Mexican?" is not as straightforward as it might seem. While the drink's primary ingredient, tequila, is undeniably Mexican, the margarita's true origins are less clear-cut.
Many of the origin stories place the margarita's invention in Mexico, particularly in border regions like Tijuana and Ensenada. However, the cocktail's popularity and evolution have been significantly influenced by American culture and tastes.
The margarita's rise to fame in the United States during the mid-20th century contributed to its global popularity. Today, while it's often associated with Mexican cuisine and culture, the margarita is perhaps best described as a Mexican-American creation, embodying the cultural exchange between the two countries.