Bitter Margarita

Bitter Margarita is a punchy, complex variation of the classic agave sour that masterfully marries crisp blanco tequila and a touch of smoky mezcal with the bold snap of an aperitivo. Shaken to a frosty chill with orange liqueur, Italian red bitter liqueur, fresh lime juice, and a sweet drizzle of agave nectar, this invigorating drink is strained into a Tajín-rimmed glass and beautifully garnished with a blood orange wheel.

Ingredients:

• 30 ml Patrón Silver blanco tequila

• 15 ml Del Maguey Vida Clásico Mezcal

• 15 ml Triple sec liqueur (40% alc./vol.)

• 15 ml Strucchi Red Bitter (Campari-style liqueur)

• 7.5 ml Agave syrup (agave nectar)

• 22.5 ml Lime juice (freshly squeezed)

• 4 drops of saline solution (20g sea salt to 80g water) or a mere pinch of salt

Instructions:

• Select and pre-chill an old-fashioned glass.

• RIM glass with Tajín seasoning (moisten the outside edge with lime or orange juice and drip into Tajín).

• Prepare a garnish of a blood orange slice wheel.

• Shake all ingredients with ice.

• Strain into an ice-filled glass.

• Garnish with a blood orange slice.

Attribution:
Recipe: Simon Difford
Origin: Difford’s Guide
Photo: Difford’s Guide