The origin of the name “Margarita” for the cocktail is a topic of debate and there are two popular stories surrounding its creation. Both stories involve the combination of tequila and citrus flavors, but the details differ.
The first story suggests that the Margarita was invented by Carlos “Danny” Herrera, a Mexican bartender, in the late 1930s. According to this tale, a customer requested a drink that was not too strong, but also not too sweet. Herrera supposedly mixed tequila with lime and triple sec, and after trying it, the customer exclaimed “Margarita!” which means daisy in Spanish. This is believed to be the origin of the name for the drink.
The second story revolves around Dallas socialite Margarita Sames, who supposedly created the Margarita for her holiday party in 1948. Sames desired a cocktail that was both refreshing and balanced, not overly sweet or sour. She combined tequila with Cointreau, a type of orange liqueur, along with lime juice. The drink was a hit at her party, and it is said that her guests spread the recipe and named it after her.
It is important to note that the authenticity of these stories is difficult to verify, as the origins of many cocktails are often shrouded in myth and multiple claims. However, these two stories are the most commonly cited explanations for the name Margarita.
Regardless of its true origin, the Margarita has become one of the most popular and iconic cocktails around the world. Its combination of tequila, citrus, and sweetness creates a refreshing and enjoyable drink that has stood the test of time.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to explore and create various cocktails, including the Margarita. The beauty of cocktails lies in their versatility and ability to be customized to suit individual preferences. The Margarita, with its simple yet balanced combination of flavors, has always been a favorite among both casual drinkers and cocktail enthusiasts.
Personally, I have experimented with different variations of the Margarita, using different types of tequila, adding unique twists such as infusing the tequila with fruits or herbs, and even incorporating other spirits like mezcal for a smoky twist. The possibilities are endless, and it is always exciting to see how small modifications can completely transform the character of the drink.
The Margarita cocktail's name is believed to have originated from either a Mexican bartender named Carlos Herrera or a Dallas socialite named Margarita Sames. Regardless of the true story, the Margarita has become a beloved and timeless cocktail enjoyed by many around the world. Its combination of tequila, citrus, and sweetness creates a refreshing and balanced drink that continues to be a staple in the cocktail world.