Midnight in Margaritaville

This margarita is the result of painstaking research. We can guarantee that quality tequila is definitely required. (Cheap tequila carries a hint of turpentine with a paint stripper after-taste.) Grand Marnier makes a far better margarita than either Triple Sec or Cointreau, though Blue Curaçao makes a colorful change. Don't even think of touching a margarita mix or a commercial sweet and sour mix. They are mostly corn syrup. Squeeze your own fresh fruit, the real thing tastes so much better.

The Ultimate Margarita

5oz fresh squeezed lime juice (approx. 4 limes)
3oz fresh squeezed lemon juice (approx. 2 lemons)
2oz simple syrup
8oz quality tequila (e.g. Sauza Hornitos or Sauza Conmemerativo)
3oz Grand Marnier

Simple syrup is made by combining equal parts sugar and water, heating to a boil until sugar is dissolved and then cooling.

Mix ingredients. Shake with ice cubes. Serve in frosted and salted glass.

Makes 4 glasses margarita—just enough for a pleasant evening for two.

Recommended recovery period: 3 hours.