Ditch the mix! Enjoy this easy and delicious recipe for a Classic Cadillac Margarita using a few simple ingredients and the best alcohol that you can afford.
A Classic Cadillac Margarita is considered a ‘top shelf’ cocktail using an aged reposado tequila and Grand Marnier liqueur. It’s definitely something to enjoy when you feel like sipping a bit of luxury or when you want to impress your friends/family.
It’s also not a margarita for lightweights. There’s a lot of alcohol in this baby. Plus the Grand Marnier is 80 proof and the reposado tequila is between 80 to 110 proof – definitely a reminder to drink responsibly.
I like using reposado tequila, which is aged in oak barrels. I like the slight ‘oaky’ flavor with the lime, but if you don’t then choose a clear tequila that you enjoy. I would suggest picking one that’s made from 100% agave. This means that the tequila is pure, with no additives. This also means no nasty hangover symptoms.
The next decision you have to make is salt or no salt. Personally, I like a tiny rim of salt around the glass. It balances the sweetness of the Grand Marnier and softens the tequila bite. I also think that I really like salt.
What Ingredients Are Needed For This Recipe
Tequilla – for a Cadillac margarita, you want top-shelf. I used Patron Reposado.
Limes
Grand Marnier liqueur – or any other top-shelf orange liqueur
Light agave syrup – you could also use simple syrup.
Coarse salt or Kosher salt – I used Kosher salt because it’s what I had on hand.
Steps To Make This Recipe
Run a wedge of fresh lime around the top of 4 rocks glasses.
Dip the rim into a plate of salt. Set aside
Fill a cocktail pitcher halfway with ice.
Pour in the tequila, lime juice, Grand Marnier, and a bit of agave syrup.
Stir.
Taste and adjust for sweetness.
Pour into the rimmed glasses and garnish with lime wedges.
This recipe for a classic Cadillac margarita packs a punch and tickles the taste buds. It’s the perfect cocktail for a taco Tuesday, Cinco De Mayo, or any weekend evening.