Who Invented The Margarita? Everything You Need To Know!

Join us as we explore the captivating world of the margarita cocktail.

As one of the most popular cocktails we serve here at Gorse Hill we couldn't resist delving deeper into its rich history.

This timeless classic belonging to the "sour" cocktail family is a popular choice amongst cocktail enthusiasts worldwide.

Typically crafted with tequila, orange liqueur, and lime juice, the margarita offers a perfect balance of flavours.

With its signature salt-rimmed glass each sip delivers a tangy twist that is sure to leave you wanting more.

So let's delve into the intriguing story of who invented the margarita and unveil a simple recipe that you can recreate at home.

Get ready to satisfy your curiosity and tantalise your taste buds!

History of the Margarita

There are several notable individuals who claim to have invented the Margarita each with their own interesting story.

1. According to Mexican folklore expert Sara Morales, the Margarita was created in 1930 by Doña Bertha, the owner of Bertha's Bar in Mexico.

2. David Daniel "Danny" Negrete, the manager of Hotel Garci Crespo in Mexico, is said to have crafted the drink in 1936. It is believed that he made it as a gift for his girlfriend Margarita, who enjoyed salt in her drinks.

3. In 1937 Vernon O. Underwood, a salesman for Young's Market Company, approached Jonny Durlesser, the head bartender at The Tail O'Cock restaurant in Los Angeles, to create a drink using Young's newly acquired tequila. Thus, the Margarita was supposedly born!

 

4. Franciso "Pancho" Morales claims to have invented the Margarita in the summer of 1942 while working at Tommy's Place bar in Mexico. He recalls a customer ordering a "Magnolia" but misremembered the recipe. He mixed Cointreau, lime, and a spirit base (tequila) instead. The customer expressed their appreciation for the drink but pointed out that it wasn't a "Magnolia." In response, Franciso said that he believed she had actually said "Margarita."

5. Carlos Daniel "Danny" Herrera is credited with creating the Margarita in either 1947 or 1948 at his Rancho La Gloria bar in Rosarito Beach, Mexico. He made it for an actress named Marjorie King, who preferred tequila over other spirits. Carlos added a distinctive salt rim to the glass, which caught people's attention and led to the cocktail being named the Margarita, resembling Marjorie's name.

6. Socialite Margaret Sames is said to have created the first Margarita at a Christmas party she hosted in Mexico in 1948.

7. Santos Cruz while working at the Studio Lounge in Texas is said to have invented the Margarita for famous jazz singer Peggy Lee. Peggy requested a "tequila drink without a lot of mess in it." Her husband suggested the name "Margarita" due to Peggy's nickname being short for Margaret, and the presence of tequila in the drink influenced the Spanish version of the name.

These are the intriguing tales behind the creation of the beloved Margarita. 

While each story offers a fascinating glimpse into its origin, the true creator of this iconic cocktail remains a mystery in history.

 

Classic Margarita Recipe | Make Your Own!

Having delved into the intriguing history of the Margarita it's now time to unveil a traditional recipe for crafting this renowned cocktail.

This recipe is perfect for preparing two servings and is incredibly simple and quick to make.

If you're hosting a party yon can effortlessly adjust the ingredients to cater to the number of guests in attendance.

MARGARITA INGRIDIENTS 
Ingredients for the Cocktail:

• Ice
• 100ml Tequila Reposado
• 50ml Lime Juice
• 40ml Triple Sec

Ingredients for the Garnish:

• Salt
• 4 Lime Wedges

EQUIPTMENT

• Cocktail Shaker
• 2 Glasses

METHOD
STEP 1:
Take a small plate and sprinkle a few teaspoons of salt on its surface. Take a lime wedge and rub it along the rim of the glasses. Then, dip the glasses into the salt, making sure the entire rim is covered.
STEP 2:
Get the cocktail shaker and fill it with ice. Add tequila, lime juice, and triple sec to the shaker. Shake the mixture vigorously until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
STEP 3:
Using a strainer, split the mixture into the prepared glasses with fresh ice. Serve the drink with a lime wedge.

What is the difference between a margarita and a frozen margarita?

When it comes to margaritas the frozen version offers a unique texture that sets it apart from its on-the-rocks counterpart.

With little blended ice beads, a frozen margarita delights the palate with its refreshing and icy consistency.

The evenly distributed pieces of ice guarantee that every sip is wonderfully chilled making it the perfect companion for hot summer days or any time you crave a frosty treat.
 

 

Cocktail Bar Woking | Gorse Hill

Indulge in the exquisite world of classic cocktails where timeless favourites like the margarita await you at our magnificent bar in Woking.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of our stunning mansion house as you sip on your favourite drink.

This is the ultimate destination for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a memorable experience.

If you found our blog on the margarita cocktail fascinating, we invite you to explore our collection of captivating articles on the history of the Espresso Martini and Old Fashioned.

Frequently Asked Questions related to: Who invented the Margarita?

Q: Why is a margarita the perfect drink?
A: Margaritas are a delightful blend of tequila, triple sec, and fresh lime juice, resulting in a harmonious combination of sweet, sour, and salty flavours. The tanginess of the lime juice finds its perfect counterpart in the sweetness of the triple sec, creating a well-balanced taste sensation. To top it off, the salt rim on the glass adds a touch of saltiness, enhancing the overall drinking experience. It's a truly satisfying and refreshing cocktail that captures the essence of a perfect blend.

Q: Why do you shake a margarita?
A: To achieve the perfect Margarita, it's essential to shake the ingredients with large ice cubes. This process ensures that all the components blend harmoniously. Skipping the shaking step will result in a cocktail that lacks depth and character. So, remember to give your Margarita a good shake to enjoy its vibrant and multi-dimensional flavours.

Q: Do you always shake a margarita?
A: A general guideline in cocktail making is to shake when citrus is involved and stir when it's not. When the cocktail primarily consists of spirits, like an Old Fashioned stirring is recommended. However, if the cocktail incorporates juice such as in a Margarita shaking is the way to go. This simple rule ensures that the flavours blend seamlessly and the desired texture is achieved for each type of cocktail.

Q: What are the two ways to order a margarita?
A: The Margarita comes in two popular styles: frozen and on the rocks. A frozen Margarita is created by blending ice until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. On the other hand an on-the-rocks Margarita involves shaking the drink with ice cubes until it becomes well-chilled. Each style offers a distinct drinking experience, allowing you to choose the one that suits your preferences.

Q: Can you swap Cointreau and triple sec?
A: In a margarita you have the flexibility to substitute triple sec with Cointreau.