The history of the Margarita; Mexico's iconic cocktail

François VELTIN
2 hours ago
2 min read

Célia verse la Mezcalita dans le verre givré au sel piment guajillo & hibiscus.

It is impossible to talk about Mexican cocktails without mentioning the Margarita. Fresh, tart and perfectly balanced, it alone embodies the festive spirit of Mexico. But where does she really come from? And why does it still seduce so much today? We tell you everything... with some surprises to discover during your next visit to Alegrias.

A mysterious origin

As often with the great classics, the origin of the Margarita remains surrounded by mystery. Several stories circulate, all as seductive as each other.

The most common version says that it was created in the 1930s for a woman named Margarita, allergic to all alcohols except tequila. A bartender would then have imagined this simple and brilliant mixture: tequila, lime and orange liqueur.

Another legend mentions a rich American heiress, Margarita Sames, who allegedly created this cocktail at a private party in Acapulco. His guests would have loved it... to the point of popularizing it around the world.

Whatever the true story, one thing is certain: the Margarita has become an essential symbol of Mexican culture.

The original recipe: simplicity and balance

The traditional Margarita is based on a perfect balance between three ingredients:

Jose Cuervo tequila (for power),
Fresh lime juice (for acidity),
Orange liqueur, (for sweetness), with us there is only one and it is the Cointreau.
The homemade chili salt with chile guajillo that frosts the edge of the glass popularly called Tajín in Mexico.

At Alegrias, we respect this authentic recipe while selecting quality ingredients to offer a faithful... and unforgettable experience.

Margarita with Mezcal: a more intense version

For lovers of complexity and smoke, Mezcalita is a fascinating alternative.

Mezcal, the artisanal cousin of tequila, brings a unique smoked dimension to the cocktail. Result: a more complex, deeper Margarita, with an assertive character.

This is the ideal choice if you want to get off the beaten track.

Frozen Margarita: guaranteed freshness

Prepared as an ultra-refreshing granita, it is perfect for sunny days or to extend a summer evening.

Beyond the cocktail, it is a whole experience that we offer you:

Authentic and creative recipes inspired by Mexico which gives pride of place to the product but also to the Mexican tableware.
A rigorous selection of tequilas, mezcals, sotol, pox and Mexican rum.
A warm and intimate atmosphere
A passionate team ready to advise you

Whether you are a fan of classics or curious about novelties, the Margarita is the ideal starting point to discover our universe.

See you soon around a Margarita ¡Salud!