President Margarita

A measure of brandy lends extra depth to this cold, lime-bright margarita. Keep the salt rim light so the citrus and tequila stay in balance.

Recipe link

Prep time5 min

Cook time0 min

Total time5 min

Ingredients

Prepare the Glass: Place a small amount of coarse salt on a small plate. If desired, rub one lime wedge around part or all of the rim of a rocks glass or margarita glass, then dip the moistened rim lightly into the salt. Fill the glass with fresh ice.1 lime wedge, coarse salt, ice
Mix the Cocktail: Fill a cocktail shaker about halfway with ice. Add the tequila, plain brandy, orange liqueur, and prepared sweet-and-sour mix. Squeeze the remaining lime wedge into the shaker, then seal it securely.1¼ oz tequila, ½ oz brandy, ½ oz orange liqueur, 3 oz sweet-and-sour mix, 1 lime wedge, ice
Shake: Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels very cold and becomes lightly frosted.
Serve: Using a cocktail strainer, strain the margarita over the fresh ice in the prepared glass. Garnish with an additional lime wheel or wedge, orange peel, or cocktail cherry if desired. Serve immediately.Additional lime wheel or wedge, orange peel, cocktail cherry, as desired

Tequila: A good-quality 100% agave tequila gives the margarita the cleanest and smoothest flavor.
Sweet-and-Sour Mix: Prepared sweet-and-sour mixes vary in sweetness and acidity. Use one you enjoy, then squeeze in a little additional fresh lime if the finished drink tastes too sweet.
Brandy: Use plain, unflavored brandy. The brandy softens the tequila and adds a warmer, richer finish.
Serving and Make Ahead: A light or partial salt rim works best without overpowering the citrus. The tequila, brandy, orange liqueur, and sweet-and-sour mix may be combined and refrigerated for several hours, but shake the cocktail with ice only immediately before serving.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with Guacamole, Tex-Mex Dip, or Turkey Enchiladas.

Yield

1 cocktail — Serving size: 1 cocktail