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cadillac margarita cocktail

Cadillac Margarita

A sophisticated and smooth upgrade to the classic cocktail! This premium margarita features aged reposado tequila, fresh lime juice, and a signature float of Grand Marnier.
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Prep Time 3 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: cocktail, Drinks
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ounces high-quality Reposado tequila
  • 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice about 1 large lime
  • 1/2 ounce agave nectar or simple syrup
  • 1 ounce Grand Marnier or premium orange liqueur, for floating
  • Kosher salt or flaky sea salt for the rim
  • 1 lime wedge for rimming and garnish
  • Ice cubes

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker
  • Jigger or liquid measuring spoons
  • Handheld citrus juicer
  • Margarita glasses or standard rocks glasses

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Glass: Run the lime wedge around the outer rim of your margarita glass or rocks glass. Dip the moistened rim into a small plate filled with kosher salt to lightly coat the edge. Fill the prepared glass to the top with fresh ice cubes.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Pour in the reposado tequila, freshly squeezed lime juice, and agave nectar.
  3. Shake the Cocktail: Secure the lid on your cocktail shaker and shake vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds. The outside of the shaker should become very cold and frosty.
  4. Strain and Pour: Remove the lid and strain the chilled margarita mixture directly into your salt-rimmed glass over the fresh ice.
  5. Float the Grand Marnier: Carefully pour the Grand Marnier directly over the top of the drink. Pouring it gently over the back of a spoon helps it float beautifully on the surface, giving the cocktail its signature Cadillac presentation.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the rim with a fresh lime wedge or a twist of orange peel. Serve immediately and enjoy responsibly.

Notes

Choosing the Tequila: A true Cadillac margarita requires Reposado (rested) or Añejo (aged) tequila. The aging process gives the tequila a golden color and a smoother, slightly oaky flavor profile with notes of vanilla and caramel, which pairs perfectly with the orange liqueur.
Fresh Juice is Mandatory: Do not use bottled lime juice for this premium cocktail. Freshly squeezed lime juice provides a bright, crisp acidity that simply cannot be replicated by preservatives in bottled versions.
The Grand Marnier Float: Grand Marnier is a cognac-based orange liqueur that sets the Cadillac apart from a standard margarita. If you stir it in right away, you lose the beautiful visual effect. Let it float on top so the drinker gets a fragrant, rich hit of orange cognac with their first sip.