Liquid – Atlas

The Margarita is one of the most beloved cocktails in the world, known for its bold flavors and versatility. But if you’re a fan of tequila and are looking for a fresh twist on the classic, look no further than Tommy’s Margarita. This modern variation swaps the traditional triple sec for agave syrup, creating a smoother, more natural sweetness that highlights the tequila’s flavor. Let’s dive into the history, recipe, and everything you need to know about this refreshing drink.

The History of Tommy’s Margarita

Tommy’s Margarita has a unique backstory that traces back to San Francisco in the 1980s. The drink was created by Julio Bermejo, a bartender at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant, which was run by his family. Julio wanted to create a Margarita that was pure and focused on the flavor of the tequila. He decided to replace the usual triple sec with agave syrup, which is derived from the same plant as tequila, creating a more natural sweetness and allowing the quality of the tequila to shine.

Since its creation, Tommy’s Margarita has gained widespread popularity and is now a classic in its own right, appreciated for its simplicity and the high-quality ingredients that make it stand out.

Ingredients and Key Elements

The beauty of Tommy’s Margarita lies in its simplicity. With only three main ingredients, it lets each one shine, creating a balanced and flavorful cocktail. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Tequila: For the best flavor, use 100% agave tequila. Reposado tequila is particularly recommended because it’s aged for a few months, which adds a depth of flavor to the cocktail, but blanco tequila works perfectly fine if you prefer a more straightforward taste.
2. Fresh Lime Juice: Fresh is key! Avoid bottled lime juice, as it lacks the vibrant, zesty flavor that fresh lime brings to the cocktail.
3. Agave Syrup: Instead of the traditional triple sec, Tommy’s Margarita uses agave syrup. This natural sweetener is made from the same plant as tequila and imparts a smoother sweetness that complements the lime and tequila perfectly.

How to Make Tommy’s Margarita

Making a Tommy’s Margarita is simple and straightforward. Here’s the recipe:

Ingredients:

• 60 ml 100% agave tequila (preferably reposado)
• 30 ml fresh lime juice
• 15 ml agave syrup (adjust to taste)
• Ice
• Lime wheel, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine the ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the tequila, lime juice, and agave syrup.
2. Shake: Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds until the ingredients are well mixed and chilled.
3. Strain and serve: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
4. Garnish: Garnish with a lime wheel for a touch of color and aroma.

And just like that, you have a refreshing, smooth Tommy’s Margarita ready to enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Tommy’s Margarita

• Choose quality tequila: Since tequila is the star of the show, make sure to pick a good-quality 100% agave tequila. Reposado offers a smooth, rich flavor, but blanco is also a great option for a brighter, more crisp drink.
• Adjust the sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of agave syrup. If you like your Margarita on the sweeter side, add a bit more syrup, but remember that this drink is all about letting the tequila shine through.
• Rim the glass: While Tommy’s Margarita is typically served without a salt rim, feel free to get creative and rim your glass with salt or Tajín for an extra flavor boost.

Variations to Try

While Tommy’s Margarita is delicious on its own, it’s easy to experiment with variations to suit your taste. Here are a couple of ideas to try:

• Spicy Tommy’s Margarita: Add fresh slices of jalapeño to the shaker to give the drink a spicy kick. This adds a new layer of flavor that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the agave syrup and the sourness of the lime.
• Smoky Tommy’s Margarita: For a more complex flavor, substitute part of the tequila with mezcal, which has a smoky profile. This adds depth and intrigue to the cocktail while still keeping it true to the Tommy’s Margarita spirit.

Why You’ll Love Tommy’s Margarita

Tommy’s Margarita is the perfect drink for anyone who appreciates high-quality, simple cocktails. The balance of tequila, lime, and agave syrup creates a crisp and refreshing drink that’s not too sweet and not too sour. It’s a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed at any time of year and is perfect for casual gatherings or sophisticated soirées.

With its clean, fresh flavors and emphasis on the tequila, Tommy’s Margarita is ideal for those who prefer cocktails that showcase the base spirit, rather than relying on sugary liqueurs.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a Margarita aficionado or new to the cocktail scene, Tommy’s Margarita is a must-try. With just a few ingredients, it’s easy to make, and the result is a perfectly balanced drink that emphasizes the natural flavors of tequila. So next time you’re in the mood for a Margarita, skip the triple sec and go for the agave syrup—your taste buds will thank you!