The origins of the margarita cocktail have been a subject of much debate and speculation. One popular story suggests that the drink was named after a woman, specifically singer Peggy Lee. According to this tale, the margarita was created in 1948 by Santos Cruz, the head bartender at the famous Balinese Room in Galveston, Texas.
As the story goes, Peggy Lee visited the Balinese Room and requested a special cocktail. In response to her request, Cruz concocted a drink made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec. He supposedly decided to name the drink after the Spanish version of Lee's name, Margarita.
While this story is certainly charming, it is important to note that there are other accounts of the margarita's origins that do not involve a specific woman's name. For example, some believe that the cocktail was simply a variation of another popular drink called the Daisy, which was made with similar ingredients.
Another theory suggests that the margarita may have been inspired by a traditional Mexican drink called the “Daisy Sour.” This drink consisted of tequila, lime juice, and a sweetener, which is very similar to the ingredients of a margarita.
It's also worth mentioning that the word “margarita” is Spanish for “daisy,” which further supports the idea that the cocktail may have been a variation of the Daisy drink.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have come across various origin stories for different cocktails, and it is not uncommon for the true history to be somewhat elusive. The world of cocktails is filled with creativity, experimentation, and the blending of different cultures and ingredients. It's possible that the margarita's true origins may never be fully known, as it likely evolved over time through the contributions of many bartenders and mixologists.
While the story of Santos Cruz naming the margarita after Peggy Lee is a popular tale, it is just one of many theories regarding the cocktail's origin. The margarita's true roots may lie in a combination of different influences and cultural traditions. Regardless of its specific origins, the margarita has become an iconic and beloved cocktail enjoyed by people around the world.