Californian Margarita
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.37 / 5
The Californian Margarita is a creative twist on the classic Margarita cocktail, blending traditional ingredients with distinctive flavors to create a refreshing and complex drink. By incorporating Falernum, a sweet syrup with hints of almond, ginger, lime, and clove, this version adds an exotic flair. Agave syrup enhances the natural sweetness, while saline solution subtly elevates the depth of flavor. A mix of Triple Sec and tequila forms the alcoholic base, with lemon juice providing a tangy citrus kick. Served in a cocktail glass, the Californian Margarita offers a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and savory notes, making it a favorite for those seeking a sophisticated, modern take on the beloved Margarita. This cocktail is perfect for enthusiasts searching for unique Margarita recipes or an innovative Californian twist on a traditional drink.
Check out all our FAQ's on this cocktail
Base ingredient
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Tequila
Calories
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134 calories
Alcohol content
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24.65% | 2.12 units *
Details
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Classic

Cocktail glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
5ml 0.17oz 0.5cl
5ml 0.17oz 0.5cl
3 drops 3 drops 3 drops
22.5ml ¾oz 2.3cl
30ml 1oz 3cl
22.5ml ¾oz 2.3cl
Serves:
-
1
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

4/5

The Californian Margarita elegantly fuses the zest of lemon juice with exotic Falernum, presenting an adventurous twist on the classic Margarita that delivers a nuanced explosion of flavors. The addition of saline solution is a clever touch, magnifying the intricate balance of sweet from agave syrup, sour from lemon, and the smooth, potent kick of tequila and Triple Sec, ultimately crafting a cocktail that is both refreshing and intricately layered.

Method
How to make a Californian Margarita

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Start by placing all of your ingredients into a cocktail shaker, adding ice to fill
Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds, or until the shaker feels frosty on the outside
Immediately strain the mixture into a glass that's filled with fresh ice, ensuring that no ice shards or ingredient bits end up in your drink
Enjoy sipping your perfectly chilled and mixed cocktail

Power tips
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Rim the glass with a mix of sea salt and finely chopped fresh herbs, such as cilantro, for an additional flavor layer.
Consider using a smoked tequila to add a depth of complexity and distinguish your Margarita from the usual.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Shake  ·  Strain  · 

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FAQ's

Faq icon

What makes a Californian Margarita different from a traditional Margarita?

A Californian Margarita distinguishes itself from a traditional Margarita through its unique ingredients such as Falernum, a sweet syrup with almond, ginger, lime, and sometimes clove notes, and the use of agave syrup and saline solution. These additions provide a distinctive flavor profile, differentiating it from the classic Margarita's straightforward mix of tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur.

Serving suggestions icon

How should I serve a Californian Margarita?

A Californian Margarita should be served cold in a cocktail glass. While the glass need not be prepared with salt on the rim as is traditional with some Margaritas, doing so can add a pleasing contrast to the sweet and sour flavors of the drink. Additionally, a slice of lemon or lime can be used as garnish for a refreshing aroma and visual appeal.

Alcohol content comparison icon

Can I adjust the alcohol content in the Californian Margarita to make it lighter or stronger?

Yes, you can adjust the alcohol content in the Californian Margarita by varying the amounts of Tequila and Triple Sec. To make it lighter, you can reduce the amount of these spirits or increase the non-alcoholic ingredients slightly. Conversely, to make the drink stronger, increase the quantity of the spirits while maintaining the balance of flavors with the other ingredients.

Non alcoholic variations icon

Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Californian Margarita, and how can I make it?

Absolutely, you can create a non-alcoholic version of the Californian Margarita by substituting the Tequila and Triple Sec with non-alcoholic alternatives such as non-alcoholic spirits or a mix of fruit juices that mimic the complexity and depth of the alcoholic components. Use the same proportions of Falernum, agave syrup, saline solution, and lemon juice, and adjust to taste. This allows everyone to enjoy the refreshing and unique flavors of the Californian Margarita without the alcohol.

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