The Origins, Twists and Jamie’s Elderflower Margarita Recipe

The margarita is a personal favourite of mine. A fantastic blend of tequila, lime juice and orange liqueur, it’s a classic cocktail that has become a staple in bars around the world.. This iconic drink has a fascinating history with many theories surrounding its origins and countless twists on the traditional recipe.

This is a drink in which its origins are shrouded in mystery, with several theories claiming to be the true birthplace of this beloved drink. Over the years, mixologists and enthusiasts have experimented with different ingredients, techniques and resulted in numerous variations of the classic.

One theory suggests that the margarita was created in the late 1930’s by Carlos “Danny” Herrera, a bartender in Tijuana, Mexico. He allegedly invented a cocktail for a customer who was allergic to all spirits except tequila but found it too harsh to drink straight. Herrera combined tequila, lime juice and a touch of orange liqueur, creating the first margarita. Another theory claims that the margarita was born in the 1940’s when a socialite named Margarita Sames mixed tequila, lime juice and Cointreau during a party in Acapulco, Mexico. The drink was an instant hit and its popularity spread like wildfire.

Regardless of its true origin, the margarita gained popularity in the United States during the 1950’s and 60’s thanks to the rise of Mexican cuisine and the introduction of frozen margaritas.

Over the years, many twists on the classic have been achieved - an example of a unique twist on the margarita is the tomatillo margarita. This variation replaces the traditional lime juice with tangy tomatillo juice, resulting in a slightly more tart and savoury flavour profile. The tomatillo margarita is a perfect example of how the margarita can be adapted to incorporate different ingredients while still maintaining its essence. Another example is the smoky margarita which infuses the classic margarita with a smoky flavour by adding a splash of mezcal; a Mexican spirit made from roasted agave, adding depth and complexity to the drink appealing to those who enjoy a more robust flavour profile. And of course, there’s the spicy margarita, which has become a global sensation and a staple of mine. 

For the upcoming summer season, try my Elderflower Margarita recipe below! The tangy citrus from the lime is perfectly wrapped in the soft sweetness and floral notes from the elderflower liqueur. You can expect a long, fresh and balanced finish that willwash away your sins and sweat from the sweltering silly season.

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Elderflower Margarita Recipe

Ingredients:

22.5ml fresh lime juice

30ml elderflower liqueur

45ml tequila (reposado)

2 drops of saline (20% and 80% water)

Method:

Shake and double strain into a salt rimmed coupe. Enjoy!

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The margarita has a rich history and has evolved into a versatile and beloved drink, whose origins may be uncertain but its enduring popularity is undeniable. From the classic, to the countless twists and variations, this cocktail continues to captivate and impress drinkers.

So let's take a moment to truly celebrate the Margarita. Salud.