Ace of Spades HQ

October 26, 2013

Cocktail Thread: The Margarita [CBD]
— Open Blogger

Margaritas are very simple drinks. And there is nothing difficult about making them. What is difficult is finding a good one in a bar. The problem? Most bartenders are too lazy to squeeze fresh limes; they would rather open a bottle of ersatz lime juice or squirt that neon-green, syrupy abomination out of the gun. Or the bar owner doesnÂ’t want to spend a few extra dollars on top quality ingredients. Either way, you get a lousy Margarita.

So....stop wasting your money and instead make them at home.

I am not going to debate the merits of the many excellent tequilas that are available. I use Milagro in my Margaritas, but I am sure that there is someone out there who is aghast at my poor choice. I donÂ’t care. My Margaritas are really good, so if you donÂ’t like my choice of tequila; donÂ’t drink it. DonÂ’t worry, IÂ’ll find someone who will be glad to drink the extra.

3 parts good quality tequila

1 part Cointreau (Triple Sec can be used in a pinch,but it is sweeter, less complex, and has less alcohol)

1 part fresh squeezed lime juice.(This is not debatable. Either use fresh squeezed or donÂ’t bother making the drink)

Tiny pinch of Kosher salt

Simple syrup to taste, although Agave Nectar is great

Thinly sliced lime as garnish

Toss everything into a shaker with a lot of ice. Shake for several seconds until it becomes frothy. This is an important step, not only to chill the drink enough but also to smooth it with a little bit of water from the melting ice. Taste, correct the sweetness with the simple syrup (or agave nectar). then pour into a chilled glass. You will find that this recipe makes a tart Margarita, so donÂ’t worry if you use a bit of the syrup. I vacillate wildly between no syrup and about Â½ teaspoon per drink.

If you want salt on the glass, don't put that pinch in the drink, wet the rim of the glass with lime juice and rotate it in a plate of kosher salt.

Of course the huge issue here is whether to drink it on the rocks. I prefer straight up, but I will never refuse a well-made drink, even if it's on the rocks. That would be rude and disrespectful.

Posted by: Open Blogger at 01:07 PM | Comments (122)
Post contains 396 words, total size 2 kb.

1 One of the best margaritas I've ever had was at Rick Bayless' Frontera Grill in Chicago. Each one is made table side, with fresh lime juice and shaken in a cocktail shaker.

Mmmmm...I'd love one right now.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at October 26, 2013 01:11 PM (lVPtV)

2 Where is Ace? Is he dead?

Posted by: Paul A'Barge at October 26, 2013 01:11 PM (ellBz)

3 2 Where is Ace?

Is he dead?

He's on vacation. We're trying to behave.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at October 26, 2013 01:13 PM (lVPtV)

4 Trying to remember the stages of a tequila drunk, seem to remember "I'm invisible" is near the endÂ…..

Posted by: mbruce at October 26, 2013 01:13 PM (Hx3jP)

5 Yes, this is the way to make them. Now, slice up 3 or 4 jalepenos and add them to the Tequilla bottle for 3 days. Then use that Tequilla in your margaritas.

Posted by: RPF at October 26, 2013 01:14 PM (QH1nK)

6 OK, maybe 4 stages Stage 1: I'm rich Stage 2: I'm good looking Stage 3: I'm bullet proof Stage 4: I'm inivisible

Posted by: mbruce at October 26, 2013 01:14 PM (Hx3jP)

7 RPF, my dad's crazy Canook friend used to soak jalapeÃ±os in his Stoli, the Cajun Martinis would bring sweat to my brow.

Posted by: mbruce at October 26, 2013 01:16 PM (Hx3jP)

8 What? No blender?

Posted by: Wiserbud at October 26, 2013 01:17 PM (NXg/k)

9 Thats a lot of trouble for a drink.. McCallums 12 and a coffee cup..

Posted by: jet Built Around Cannon at October 26, 2013 01:19 PM (5bB1J)

10 So two posts in a row being snooty about ingredients. Quality ingredients make everything better, but for me when the choice is between, say, lime juice out of a bottle or no drink, I'm having me a margarita. I'm a Philistine, but I'll be a happy one.

Posted by: Brad at October 26, 2013 01:20 PM (B5hux)

11 Anyone who puts beer in a margarita needs to sterilized.

Posted by: Wiserbud at October 26, 2013 01:20 PM (NXg/k)

12 http://www.gasblender.com/

Posted by: Hrothgar Establishment RINO at October 26, 2013 01:21 PM (XdnQT)

13 Here's one of Bayless' recipes:

Topolo Margarita

Finely grated zest of 1 1/2 limes, about 1 teaspoon
1/2 cup fresh lime juice, about 2 large limes
1/4 cup plus 1 teaspoon sugar
3/4 cup Sauza Commemorativo tequila
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons Gran Torres orange liquor OR 2 tablespoons Grand Marnier
About 1 cup coarsely broken ice cubes
Lime wedges
Coarse salt

1. Making 1 1/4 cups of tangy limeade: Combine the lime zest, lime juice, sugar and 10 tablespoons water in a glass or plastic pitcher. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (but no longer than 24 hours). Strain into another pitcher.

2. Finishing and serving the margaritas: Rub the rims of 4 martini glasses with a lime wedge, then dip them in a dish of coarse salt. Refrigerate the glasses if desired.

In a shaker, combine the limeade, tequila and orange liqueur. Add ice and shake 10 - 15 seconds, then strain into the prepared glasses.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at October 26, 2013 01:21 PM (lVPtV)

14 >>> lime juice out of a bottle or no drink, I'm having me a margarita. I'm a Philistine, but I'll be a happy one. Zakly. I use Realime for my unsweetened margaritas and people love them.

Posted by: Wiserbud at October 26, 2013 01:22 PM (NXg/k)

15 You forgot the 5th stage of Tequila drunk.

Jail!

Posted by: The Hickster at October 26, 2013 01:23 PM (MVBSu)

16 You are right, many bars do NOT make good margaritas!

However, if this bill actually passed my state legislature, I would drink MANY bad margaritas in celebration.

http://tinyurl.com/lx8cl42

One can always dream!

Posted by: Ian Galt at October 26, 2013 01:24 PM (QdOC1)

17 My version: 3 parts tequila 2 parts Cointreau 1 part fresh lime juice Don't fool with syrup or sweeteners. You're just sweetening the drink without adding flava. Solerno - a blood orange liquor is a nice variation. It's a brighter deeper flavor than Cointreau. Gran Marnier - you know it, you love it- it's nice to add with an aged or top shelf tequila. Smooth, baby

Posted by: The Bourbon in Boehner's Belly at October 26, 2013 01:25 PM (CRY7r)

18 What? No blender? Posted by: Wiserbud at October 26, 2013 05:17 PM (NXg/k) You know when I was younger I enjoyed the blended Icee type Margie. But as I have gotten older I find myself liking the more tart and more direct drink either straight up or on the rocks.. This is an awesome recipe. The fresh lime juice and the Cointreau are new demands on my drink mixing skills. Ones that I will most certainly incoporate into my next Margie gathering.

Posted by: Oldsailors Poet Palin/Bolton 2016 at October 26, 2013 01:25 PM (XIxXP)

19 Posted by: Wiserbud at October 26, 2013 05:22 PM (NXg/k) Good Golly, that's not even presqueezed lime juice, it's just Citric Acid and Water. I've made that shit up in a lab before. Having said that, squeezing a shiton of keylimes for Margaritas is a pain, but I have a juicer now (long story, it was given not bought) so maybe I should give that a go.)

Posted by: tsrblke PhD(c) (No Really!) at October 26, 2013 01:25 PM (GaqMa)

20 Posted by: tsrblke PhD(c) (No Really!) at October 26, 2013 05:25 PM (GaqMa) OK, I left the thread without knowing the answer to the Taserbike mystery. What does the nic mean?

Posted by: Oldsailors Poet Palin/Bolton 2016 at October 26, 2013 01:28 PM (XIxXP)

21 I'm sorry CBD, but I am going off topic. Paul just called to tell me he moved his big toe today. It must have been my visit. No one that loves him has been to see him since his 3 kids went in May! PT said she could see trace movements in his knee & leg. I don't know what that means, I'll ask later. Thank you all for your prayers. Carol I posted on other thread. Sorry but this is good news.

Posted by: CarolT at October 26, 2013 01:28 PM (z4WKX)

22 Posted by: Oldsailors Poet Palin/Bolton 2016 at October 26, 2013 05:28 PM (XIxXP) My first two initials followed by last name with a few missing repeat letters and no vowels. I was like 9 (12? I dunno, something young) when I came up with this username, and I'm just too lazy to change it. I own it now.) Someone guessed my last name was "Rubberlake." Sadly, that's only a few letters extra

(but not many!)

Posted by: tsrblke PhD(c) (No Really!) at October 26, 2013 01:30 PM (GaqMa)

Posted by: Jane D'oh at October 26, 2013 05:13 PM (lVPtV)

Look, Jane survived the night! Either that, or the spiders have taken control of her computer....

Posted by: Grey Fox at October 26, 2013 01:30 PM (oTbs2)

24 I posted on other thread. Sorry but this is good news.

Posted by: CarolT at October 26, 2013 05:28 PM (z4WKX)

Great news!

Posted by: Jane D'oh at October 26, 2013 01:30 PM (lVPtV)

25 CarolT that is great news. Let's hope it's a trend that keeps moving up. More prayers for Paul on the way.

Posted by: The Hickster at October 26, 2013 01:30 PM (MVBSu)

26 Here's a drink I found recently that lives in the same neighborhood as the Margarita and is just as good, maybe more sophisticated flavor. Tequila Italiano 3 parts blanco tequila 1 part Campari 1 part fresh lemon juice 1 part simple syrup Just a great great before dinner cocktail. Use a blanco with an agave heavy nose on this one. I like Siembra Azul blanco. Try it, you'll like it.

Posted by: The Bourbon in Boehner's Belly at October 26, 2013 01:31 PM (CRY7r)

27 squeezing a shiton of keylimes for Margaritas is a pain, but I have a juicer now (long story, it was given not bought) so maybe I should give that a go.)

Posted by: tsrblke

Uh, key lime? Ech.

Posted by: weft cut-loop [/i] [/b] at October 26, 2013 01:31 PM (xz0nG)

28
Look, Jane survived the night! Either that, or the spiders have taken control of her computer....

Posted by: Grey Fox at October 26, 2013 05:30 PM (oTbs2)

Dammit. Stop reminding me. *looks nervously around*

Posted by: Jane D'oh at October 26, 2013 01:31 PM (lVPtV)

29 My Margarita recipe: 1). Tale a bottle of tequila 2). Stare at bottle of triple sec from across the room 3). Chug bottle of tequila

Posted by: The Drinky Hat at October 26, 2013 01:32 PM (Vk2pI)

30 Don't be sorry Carol! That is great news!

Posted by: SAT Rose at October 26, 2013 01:32 PM (igM4U)

31 Thank you all for your prayers. I wish cthulhu was here now.

Posted by: CarolT at October 26, 2013 01:32 PM (z4WKX)

32 Tequila. Some of the best times I've ever had that I can't remember were under the influence of Tequila.

Posted by: davidt at October 26, 2013 01:32 PM (rkewj)

33 Posted by: tsrblke PhD(c) (No Really!) at October 26, 2013 05:30 PM (GaqMa) OK, i get that. I just thought it was funny that I wasn't the only one that thought Taserbike, when most of those letters are not even in there. The human brain seems to put things together in the simplest ways.

Posted by: Oldsailors Poet Palin/Bolton 2016 at October 26, 2013 01:33 PM (XIxXP)

34 Jane, I had trouble sleeping in the hotel the first night I was there alone. I was on ONT until 4 or 5 am. I finally changed beds and felt more secure in bed away from bolted door. I had both doors bolted. I never slept in a hotel room myself. Carol

Posted by: CarolT at October 26, 2013 01:34 PM (z4WKX)

35 Wrong decade to be a drunkard.

Practice your marksmanship.

Posted by: Samuel Whittemore at October 26, 2013 01:35 PM (JBfvU)

36 I love margaritas, but recently have been drinking a bourbon whiskey made here locally in the Texas Hill country. It's called Garrison Brothers bourbon. Great stuff. You can tour the facility - highly recommend if you come near either Austin or San Antonio. You start the tour sitting in some rocking chairs, with all the free beer or wine you want, then go up to the distillery. Finish off sipping their bourbon looking out at the beautiful scenery.

Posted by: SAT Rose at October 26, 2013 01:37 PM (igM4U)

37 mmmm, cocktails . . . just yesterday someone was telling me his wife had started making old fashioneds at home and how delish they were.

Posted by: Peaches at October 26, 2013 01:37 PM (8lmkt)

38 I get the "bike" part a lot. People assume I'm being cute with the I (but I'm not, in fact my name isn't "too cute by a half" it's rank laziness.) People who don't know my last name often say "Rubella" which is remarkably stupid if you think about it. "Why yes, my last name is a form of the Measles, no, I haven't thought of having it changed." :sigh: I like TaserBike, I may have to see if that's taken in places

Posted by: tsrblke PhD(c) (No Really!) at October 26, 2013 01:38 PM (GaqMa)

39 MBruce, I'm the Johnny Appleseed of that recipe. (The only recipe I know) so your friend owes me a thank you. Nah, my pleasure. That's why I plant 'em.

Posted by: RPF at October 26, 2013 01:39 PM (QH1nK)

40 Most people want syrupy sweet margarita's made with faux lime jooce, and not 3 fingers of tequila with real lime squeez'ns.

Same applies to coffee, most people don't want the stuff black, they want a milkshake with coffee flavor and caffeine.

Protip: serve people what they want, not what you think they want.

See also: haircuts.

Posted by: 13times at October 26, 2013 01:39 PM (fGPLK)

41 CBD- That picture of that cocktail looks much better than my usual libations. This afternoon it was a quart of Budweiser while cleaning guns, to be followed by Clan Usher cleaning solvent, er, scotch, this evening.

Posted by: Tobacco Road at October 26, 2013 01:39 PM (4Mv1T)

42 Wrong decade to be a drunkard.
Practice your marksmanship.
Posted by: Samuel Whittemore >>

We have come a long way since your time. So don't be a sleepy drunkard is the new saying.

Posted by: The Hickster at October 26, 2013 01:40 PM (MVBSu)

43 Gazpacho margarita. It sounds awful, but actually it's fabulous if made right: http://tinyurl.com/ns342tb

Posted by: Levin at October 26, 2013 01:40 PM (gB9nl)

44 Not Clan Usher, Clan MacGregor. The Budweiser and Hoppes #9 worked.

Posted by: Tobacco Road at October 26, 2013 01:40 PM (4Mv1T)

45 Thread bookmarked. Experimentation at a later date.

Posted by: Brother Cavil and his Flying Toaster Circus at October 26, 2013 01:41 PM (m9V0o)

46 Wrong decade to be a drunkard.

Practice your marksmanship.

Posted by: Samuel Whittemore at October 26, 2013 05:35 PM (JBfvU)

They are not mutually exclusive.

Posted by: Kid Shelleen at October 26, 2013 01:41 PM (8lmkt)

47 Thanks, CBD. I like a good margarita, but my homemade margaritas taste like paint thinner, even with the best ingredients. I think there must be some magic touch required, or else God is protecting me from the consequences of being able to whip up a good margarita whenever I want one. *floor*

Posted by: Mindy at October 26, 2013 01:42 PM (ZrNcx)

48 One of D'oh Boy's Marine buddies brought him some moonshine (!!) when they cooked out last weekend. It's called "Firefly Moonshine" and is made on Wadmalaw Island, SC (just south of Charleston). It's strawberry flavored, I think.

And there goes my gag reflex kicking in.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at October 26, 2013 01:42 PM (lVPtV)

49 Now I want to go watch Cat Ballou (Jane Fonda, may she rot in hell, notwithstanding).

Posted by: Peaches at October 26, 2013 01:42 PM (8lmkt)

50 For a GREAT Margarita in Houston go to Tia Maria's on Tacoma. Get the frozen, golden Margarita. It's great and will hammer you.

Posted by: Dr Spank at October 26, 2013 01:44 PM (9jLim)

51 And there goes my gag reflex kicking in.>>

For Moonshine in general or that a Marine brought strawberry flavored Moonshine?

Posted by: The Hickster at October 26, 2013 01:44 PM (MVBSu)

52 My wife's favorite margarita that i make; Frozen Pineapple Margarita: Simple version 3 parts tequila 2 parts Cointreau 1 part fresh lime juice Add to blender, then add enough frozen pineapple(in your grocer's freezer or make your own) to more or less match liquid volume. Blend drink then drink yummy frozen concoction. Frozen Pineapple Margarita: The Super Delicious Version 3 parts tequila 1 part Cointreau 1 part Xtabentun 1 part lime juice Add frozen pineapple etc etc. Xtabentun is hard to find in the US. It's a liqueur version of some Sacred Aztec flowers and such. If you cant find it, adding Damiana is good as well instead of the Xtabentun. Warning: Over indulgence may lead to ripping hearts out of human sacrifices to the sun god.

Posted by: The Bourbon in Boehner's Belly at October 26, 2013 01:44 PM (CRY7r)

53 52 And there goes my gag reflex kicking in.>>

For Moonshine in general or that a Marine brought strawberry flavored Moonshine?

Posted by: The Hickster at October 26, 2013 05:44 PM (MVBSu)

Marine's wife (who's also a Marine) brought it. So there!

Posted by: Jane D'oh at October 26, 2013 01:45 PM (lVPtV)

54 Why would anyone want to waste Gran Marnier mixed into that concoction?

Gran Marnier is for sippin' from a snifter after a fine dinner..

I could never drink Margaritas.. they go down way too easy (like the SCOAMF!) and I'm sure I would be shit-faced before too long.

Posted by: Chi-Town Jerry at October 26, 2013 01:47 PM (b/lt+)

55 Dave makes a kickass margarita. He might as well call it panty remover.

Posted by: Gingy at October 26, 2013 01:47 PM (N/cFh)

56 1 shot Turkey
1 shot Tequila
1 beer
repeat until the bouncer kicks you out.

Next bar

start over

Posted by: Joethefatman™ (@joethefatman1) at October 26, 2013 01:47 PM (MnSla)

57 53 My wife's favorite margarita that i make;

Frozen Pineapple Margarita: Simple version

3 parts tequila
2 parts Cointreau
1 part fresh lime juice

Add to blender, then add enough frozen pineapple(in your grocer's freezer or make your own) to more or less match liquid volume. Blend drink then drink yummy frozen concoction.

Frozen Pineapple Margarita: The Super Delicious Version

3 parts tequila
1 part Cointreau
1 part Xtabentun
1 part lime juice

Add frozen pineapple etc etc.

-----

That sounds delish. Will have to try next time friends are over.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at October 26, 2013 01:47 PM (lVPtV)

58 Marine's wife (who's also a Marine) brought it. So there! >>

And as a Marine any free alcohol must be disposed of properly.

Posted by: The Hickster at October 26, 2013 01:47 PM (MVBSu)

59 Try one with finely sliced jalepeno and cilantro.

We have our own lime tree here in AZ (along with many, many others...)

Late August/September is Margarita season here...

Cheers!

Posted by: JDubya at October 26, 2013 01:48 PM (ha9m+)

60 Dave makes a kickass margarita. He might as well call it panty remover.

Posted by: Gingy at October 26, 2013 05:47 PM (N/cFh)

Posted by: Peaches at October 26, 2013 01:49 PM (8lmkt)

61 Don't see the "non-political thread" warning or the below-the-post political postÂ… OT: Venezuela creates Vice Ministry of Supreme Social Happiness http://tinyurl.com/lv43uya

Posted by: Friend Computer at October 26, 2013 01:50 PM (Vk2pI)

62 JDubya, we have a lemon tree and an orange tree that produce tons of fruit each year. I bought a potted lime tree last summer, it bloomed this spring, and didn't produce a single lime. Any idea why?

Posted by: Jane D'oh at October 26, 2013 01:50 PM (lVPtV)

63 Best I have ever had is the House Specialty margarita at Curra's on Oltorf in Austin. And I am not really a margarita drinker but this one is great.

Posted by: Lester at October 26, 2013 01:51 PM (qTsuK)

64 Posted by: Jane D'oh at October 26, 2013 05:21 PM (lVPtV)

#13 re: Bayless...I lived above him in my first home (duplex) in Cleveland. Good dude for a lib...and on top of being pretty damn knowledgeable re Mex food, he also made killer croissants.

Posted by: billygoat at October 26, 2013 01:53 PM (ebUCW)

65 >>>Good Golly, that's not even presqueezed lime juice, it's just Citric Acid and Water. I've made that shit up in a lab before. Meh. I like it. No sugar or syrup, so it's nice and sour. But that's mainly for frozen. Will agree that on the rocks does require better ingredients. Even hate using Rose's Lime Juice for those. It's like mojitos. They're only good when made with fresh ingredients and from the original recipe. Any other way sucks.

Posted by: Wiserbud at October 26, 2013 01:53 PM (NXg/k)

66 Scroll down for the Tia Maria's margarita.
http://tinyurl.com/m8t3v7w

Posted by: Dr Spank at October 26, 2013 01:54 PM (9jLim)

67
It's like mojitos. They're only good when made with fresh ingredients and from the original recipe.
Any other way sucks.

Posted by: Wiserbud at October 26, 2013 05:53 PM (NXg/k)

Husband was on a mojito kick this summer. Finally burned out on them at our last cookout with friends who love them, too. I didn't want to hurt his feelings and tell him his weren't as good as his friend's.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at October 26, 2013 01:55 PM (lVPtV)

68 ...and FWIW, his Topolo Margarita is what is (basically) known as a Cadillac Margarita...least it is in my world.

Posted by: billygoat at October 26, 2013 01:57 PM (ebUCW)

69 Â· Do you have feelings of inadequacy?
Â· Do you suffer from shyness?
Â· Do you sometimes wish you were more assertive?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist about Margaritas.
Margaritas are the safe, natural way to feel better and more confident about yourself and your actions. Margaritas can help ease you out of your shyness and let you tell the world that you're ready and willing to do just about anything. . . .
You will notice the benefits of Margaritas almost immediately. And with a regimen of regular doses you can overcome any obstacles that prevent you from living the life you want to live. Shyness and awkwardness will be a thing of the past and you will discover many talents you never knew you had. Stop hiding and start living with Margaritas.
Margaritas may not be right for everyone. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not use Margaritas. However, women who wouldn't mind nursing or becoming pregnant are encouraged to try it.
Side effects may include: Dizziness, nausea, vomiting, incarceration, erotic lustfulness, loss of motor control, loss of clothing, loss of money, loss of virginity, table dancing, headache, dehydration, dry mouth, and an uncontrollable desire to sing Karaoke.
WARNING: The consumption of Margaritas may make you think you are whispering when you are not, may cause you to tell your friends over and over again that you love them, may cause you to think you can sing, and make you think you can logically converse with members of the opposite sex without spitting.

Posted by: Barb the Evil Genius at October 26, 2013 01:58 PM (WD0KF)

70 The best restaurant margarita I've had was at- Fonda San Miguel in Austin unfortunately the last few times I've been in Austin they weren't using fresh lime juice any longer. So,

Now just okay, but food is still great. Best place to eat Mexico City style Mexican food I've found.

Posted by: The Bourbon in Boehner's Belly at October 26, 2013 01:58 PM (CRY7r)

71 In the future there will only be face sized spiders and clowns.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at October 26, 2013 02:01 PM (oFCZn)

72 And if want a good restaurant margarita to go bad, go back a year later and order another one.

Posted by: Wiserbud at October 26, 2013 02:02 PM (NXg/k)

73 72 In the future there will only be face sized spiders and clowns.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at October 26, 2013 06:01 PM (oFCZn)

But you won't notice because you'll be drunk off of fermented hobo blood.

Posted by: Joethefatman™ (@joethefatman1) at October 26, 2013 02:03 PM (MnSla)

74 Posted by: Barb the Evil Genius at October 26, 2013 05:58 PM (WD0KF) LOL

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at October 26, 2013 02:03 PM (oFCZn)

75 Dammit. Was going out with a girlfriend tonight, but she's having "issues" with one of her hell spawn.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at October 26, 2013 02:03 PM (lVPtV)

76 Even hate using Rose's Lime Juice for those. Rose's Lime Juice exists for one reason only- to make yummy yummy Gimlets. Classic Gimlet 1 1/2 parts gin 1 part Rose's Lime Juice With this I like Plymouth Gin - makes a drink so smooth your panties may just slide off by themselves. Warning: You know that bottle of RLJ in your fridge that's turned brownish from oxidation? Yeah. Throw that shit away. Buy a new bottle to make yummy smooth Gimlets with.

Posted by: The Bourbon in Boehner's Belly at October 26, 2013 02:04 PM (CRY7r)

77 Posted by: Jane D'oh at October 26, 2013 06:03 PM (lVPtV)

Those pesky hell spawn!

Posted by: Ian Galt at October 26, 2013 02:05 PM (QdOC1)

78 I used to drink Vodka Lime Gimlets. I havenÂ’t had one since the 1990Â’s. I lost my taste for hard liquor.

Posted by: CarolT at October 26, 2013 02:06 PM (z4WKX)

79
heh, CNN is very briefly covering the "Anti-NSA Rally"

Not the obama-Stop-Illegally-Spying-On-Everyone Rally.

No, these people gathered to because they are against the NSA. obama has nothing to do with this.

"What's an NSA," the LIV dummy asks.
"It's government, and government keeps you safe and fed. That's all you need to know," replies Big Fascism Media.

hahaha, who am I shittin?!?
The LIV dummy would never ask what's an NSA -- the LIV dummy don't give a shit!

Posted by: you got chocolate in my soothsayer! at October 26, 2013 02:07 PM (Fely/)

80 Dammit. Was going out with a girlfriend tonight, but she's having "issues" with one of her hell spawn.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at October 26, 2013 06:03 PM (lVPtV)

throw the little shit in the trunk and go anyway . . . obviously, I would never have gotten any Mother of the Year awards but, cripes, some people's kids, they'll make you crazy.

Posted by: Peaches at October 26, 2013 02:08 PM (8lmkt)

1) Had a really hot girlfriend a while back who could drink me under the table when it came to Tequila. She was sooooo much fun....a couple of shots and a few Margarita's was the key to a fun evening (and following morning for that matter)

2) I add a little Agave syrup to my Margarita's as a change-of-pace

Posted by: Pelosi Schmelosi at October 26, 2013 02:08 PM (Mijq/)

82
And prepare yourselves to be shocked and outraged in the coming months when the rallies to protest obamacare commence and Big Media calls them "Anti-Health Care Rallies"

Mark my words. Or don't. Your choice.

Posted by: you got chocolate in my soothsayer! at October 26, 2013 02:09 PM (BUcLz)

83 See, if we do comprehensive immigration, we'll have more restaurant workers who know how to make margaritas, or something.

Posted by: Open Border Rino at October 26, 2013 02:10 PM (Pr6hk)

84 Posted by: Peaches at October 26, 2013 06:08 PM (8lmkt) Peaches, more importantly, read my post #21. The Horde Prayer is helping! Carol

Posted by: CarolT at October 26, 2013 02:10 PM (z4WKX)

85
never mind the above comment

go to nood

now!

Posted by: you got chocolate in my soothsayer! at October 26, 2013 02:11 PM (vyPsz)

86 Oh, simple syrup. I made homemade margaritas once from a "cookbook" of cocktails and they only had three ingredients: tequila, Cointreau, and lime juice...and it was completely undrinkable.

I poured it in 6 oz of lemonade. Can't waste booze. *twitch*

Posted by: HeatherRadish™ at October 26, 2013 02:13 PM (hO8IJ)

87
my above comment, I mean

Posted by: you got chocolate in my soothsayer! at October 26, 2013 02:13 PM (xIzGn)

88 Which one? Managed to get two posts in on NDH's before it got yanked. Felt like I was in the new (new) one all by myself.

Posted by: Barb the Evil Genius at October 26, 2013 02:13 PM (WD0KF)

89 Speaking of tequila, back in the bad old days when I was married and living in San Diego we had a neighbor at the end of the cul-de-sac. He had a cousin who had access to homemade pure agave tequila. The neighbor brought a gallon of it over to our house one night during a party and that stuff was smooth as silk. About twelve shots in I was helping my step-son out with something which required the use of a blade. I have a very nice scar where I fileted my left hand between the thumb and index finger. I never felt a thing. The now-ex-wife was freaking out and wanting to take me to the emergency room. I noted that it was no big deal, while waving my hands about and spattering blood all over the walls of the bathroom, the living room, and the hallway in between them. Just wrapped it in a towel and kept drinking.

Posted by: Country Singer at October 26, 2013 02:15 PM (DE9KP)

90 Grew up in Memphis. Silkys bar in Overton Square served up an unholy concoction of all kinds of booze called "The Diver". And it was served in a full sized diver's helmet. Good times...except I don't remember much after I said, "we would like to order a Diver."

Posted by: Alf767 at October 26, 2013 02:15 PM (5kRy2)

91 Potent Vodka Gimlet

- Fill 64 oz pitcher 3/4 with crushed ice
(helps to have an institutional ice maker that makes ice flakes instead of cubes.)

- pour in 1 can of frozen-concentrated lime-aid

- fill pitcher to top with value-right style vodka in 1/2 gallon plastic bottle.

- repeat 200 times for all your friends for a hell of a party

Posted by: phreshone at October 26, 2013 02:18 PM (Pr6hk)

92 I don't drink, to speak of, never learned how. But that sure seems like a lot of alcohol. I'd always had Margaritas in my head as a sort of soft-ish mixed drink. Something you could have more than one and still drive home. No?

Posted by: Synova at October 26, 2013 02:19 PM (7/PU+)

93 WHY ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT MARGARITIAS WHEN OBAMACARE IS IMPLODING> THIS ISNT A SERIOUS BLOG FOR ACTIVISM

Posted by: FadeToBolivia at October 26, 2013 02:21 PM (YLWpc)

94 Peaches, more importantly, read my post #21.
The Horde Prayer is helping!
Carol

Posted by: CarolT at October 26, 2013 06:10 PM (z4WKX)

Carol, that's great. Hopefully a sign of better things to come! Prayer is quite an amazing thing sometimes. Will continue my own paltry efforts on Paul's behalf.

Posted by: Peaches at October 26, 2013 02:22 PM (8lmkt)

95 I'd always had Margaritas in my head as a sort of soft-ish mixed drink. Something you could have more than one and still drive home. Most restaurant margaritas are like that. Lots of their weakass sweet and sour mix and a little bit of their bottom shelf rotgut tequila.

Posted by: The Bourbon in Boehner's Belly at October 26, 2013 02:25 PM (CRY7r)

96 My twist on CBD's recipe: Start with an excellent tequila. Sip. Back with a nice Negra Modelo Throw limes at the frat boys.

Posted by: motionview at October 26, 2013 02:39 PM (2yPl+)

97 Besides good margaritas, good bartenders are hard to find! Really need to start making these at home. Margaritas at Mexican restaurants are okay but often too heavy on everything but the alcohol.

Posted by: Adlib at October 26, 2013 02:39 PM (XcpmY)

98 Any suggestions for a relatively inexpensive gin for G&Ts? Used to drink Tanqueray, but with continued "funemployment", need a cheaper substitute. Gordon's is not the option I had hoped it would be (God alone knows why it's - per the label - "#1" - or where, for that matter).

Posted by: JustDave in GR at October 26, 2013 02:48 PM (jyosK)

99 I like corralejos for the tequila and usually add a float of a 1/2 tsp. of Gran Marnier. Corrido anejo is interesting as well, it's aged in bourbon barrels.

Posted by: Bivalve Curious at October 26, 2013 02:53 PM (aGqSh)

100 I second [The Bourbon in Boehner's Belly at October 26, 2013 05:25 PM]. A 3-2-1 recipe for a margarita is simple and supreme.

Posted by: Arnold Fufkin at October 26, 2013 02:56 PM (tAESs)

101 "Any suggestions for a relatively inexpensive gin for GTs?"

Hell don't be afraid to try Phillips, I like gin as much as the next guy and there's nothing wrong with theirs.

Posted by: lowandslow at October 26, 2013 02:59 PM (IV4od)

102 My favorite Margarita is from the Second Street Bistro in Livingston, MT. It is their Pineapple-JalapeÃ±o signature Margarita, and it's just wonderful. I get it on the rocks with a salted glass rim.

Don't know how they make it. I think they float an eyedropperful of jalapeÃ±o oil on top as the last step before serving because it starts off with a real strong chili kick and gradually mellows out to a pineapple-sweetened Margarita by the bottom of the glass. Yum!

Posted by: jix at October 26, 2013 03:03 PM (iGpXz)

103 Thanks, lowandslow.. I will give Phillips a try if it is available here in MI...

Posted by: JustDave in GR at October 26, 2013 03:10 PM (jyosK)

104 Long time, no post.

Best Margarita:

Maria's in Santa Fe, just order something better than a house Margarita. [Although, I must admit I haven't been to Maria's since it changed hands last year.]

My favorite Margarita recipe:

3 parts fresh squeezed lime+lemon juices
4 parts Grand Marniear
6 parts premium tequila

Wet rim of glass from left over lemon-lime pulp, dip glassh in kosher salt.

Shake well with ice, strain into glass.

Add a wedge of lime.

Enjoy!

[Wash, rinse, repeat -- often]

Posted by: Piñon Farmer at October 26, 2013 03:13 PM (IzuWw)

105 To the contrary; I once went into a bar and ordered a Margarita. The bartender was absolutely delighted to be able to exercise his craft instead of just serving up another beer. Real bartenders love to make real drinks, and they'll grin from ear to ear if you ask for something that taps into their knowledge of how to make drinks. Every craftsman loves to show off his skills.

Posted by: Chas at October 26, 2013 03:15 PM (IEZXG)

106 Damn! I missed this thread. Husband ordered a specialty margarita at a Greek restaurant this afternoon that was really terrific. It featured Ouzo with the Tequila (forget which type) and iirc had some muddled cucumber in it, too. Wish I could remember all the components. I really like the Jamaican Cowboy "margaritas" that they make at Texas Roadhouse: 1 ounce unsweetened pineapple juice 1 ounce unsweetened orange juice 1 ounce margarita mix 1/2 ounce peach schnapps 1 ounce coconut rum 1 ounce gold tequila We make a version of them at home. We don't use Margarita mix, but make a regular Margarita usually using Cointreau and lime juice, then add the juices, rum, and schnapps. Very good.

Posted by: Y-not at October 26, 2013 03:42 PM (5H6zj)

107 73 And if want a good restaurant margarita to go bad, go back a year later and order another one. This is so true. Another truth (for me anyway) - At many low-key good honest tasty non-pretentious non-chain Mexican restaurants, the house margarita is almost always the best tasting - and better tasting than the ones you usually get for twice the price at fancy places.

Posted by: My Name is Nobody at October 26, 2013 03:46 PM (5Q1ZU)

108 San Francisco is going through a cocktail explosion. It's one of the few things I love about living in this city! New bars open every week, and every bar in town is in a frantic competition to make the best (and sometimes craziest) cocktails. Double-lucky for me, I rarely if ever have to pay (for reasons I cannot divulge!). I've had some real clunkers over last couple years, admittedly, but overall it's been quite the cocktail adventure! Every time I go out, I have two or three wild new cocktails that I've never tried before (mostly because they were just invented), often using craft/artisinal local spirits.

Posted by: zombie at October 26, 2013 03:53 PM (+cx5n)

109 I had a Manhattan at some swanky DC hotel near the White House that even had maple syrup in it. Delicious. Wish I could get the recipe.

Posted by: PJ at October 26, 2013 03:55 PM (ZWaLo)

110 Fresh Lime, Agave Nectar, and decent Tequila are all one needs - I think it might be the Mexican Trilogy.

FWIW, I've read that some very well respected mixologists hold that squeezing limes 4-6 hours before mixing them actually improves their flavor. I have a bulk produce store near me and I can get bags of 10-12 limes for $1 a bag - squeeze early and squeeze often.

Posted by: Alec Leamas at October 26, 2013 04:12 PM (KD1iT)

111 As far as gin-and-tonics go, not enough discrimination/attention is paid to the tonic. I recently went on a tonic-tasting binge. Here are the results, from worse to best, with a "x-out-of-100" rating for each one: Safeway/no-name brand: 45 - way too sweet, hardly any quinine noticeable. Canadian Club: 50 - Not quite the bottom of the barrel, but close: the high-fructose corn syrup blots out any flavor. Schweppes Diet Tonic Water: 52 - Better than the also-rans, but the artificial sweetener had an unpleasant aftertaste. Schweppes: 67 - Far and away the best of the widely available corporate brands. Finer carbonation, quinine very noticeable. However, still made with corn syrup, which can be cloying. Q Tonic: 75 - Pricey new "gourmet" tonic water, made with Cane sugar, which fact alone immediately makes it stand above the mass-produced corn syrups brands. However, it's not nearly as good as they imagine themselves to be: Way too mild on the flavor, quinine not as noticeable as it should be. Fever Tree "Light" Tonic: 80 - NOW we're talkin'! This is quinine juice like it's supposed to be. However, the "Light" style of Fever Tree is made with Low Fructose Corn Syrup (yes, really), and as such lacks a certain punch. Fever Tree Tonic (i.e. regular style): 95 - Yowza!!! Once you taste this, you finally understand what tonic water is supposed to be, and what it probably tasted like in India back in 1845; everything else pales by comparison. Made with raw can syrup, and packed with quininey goodness. You can feel all ailments instantly get cured in your system. Seriously, if you want a good gin and tonic, get Fever Tree regular. It's way cheaper than the overpriced Q, and way better than the other brands. The extra $$ is worth it. If you can't find Fever Tree at your local shop, then settle for Schweppes non-diet. Fever Tree and a "real" gin, and you're in paradise.

Posted by: zombie at October 26, 2013 04:13 PM (+cx5n)

112 Yes, tonics really do matter. My favorite gin is Citadelle. Hard to find around here, sadly.

Posted by: Y-not at October 26, 2013 04:37 PM (5H6zj)

113 Don't hate the bartender, hate the customers. When I make a purist margarita, it's sent back 7 times outta 10.

Posted by: Malcolm Tent at October 26, 2013 04:50 PM (Kf3+b)

114 I actually found store-brand diet tonic water tasted very good in my G and Ts, (my first sacrifice from using Schweppes). The main issue was when I switched gins (really false economy there, but Gordon's is less than half the price of Tanqueray).

I can relate to not being able to find favorite liquors, though - when I started drinking Irish whiskey, my favorite was Hewitt's. A few months later, I learned it was no longer being made. Wish I'd grabbed more while I was in Ireland back in 2003... Bah.

Posted by: JustDave in GR at October 26, 2013 05:13 PM (jyosK)

115 I have no problem with Gordon's when I shift from premium to the standard well drink mode. Fever tree? +1 If you've never had a Sidecar, I'd recommend you mix one post haste. Margarita ingredients with brandy instead of tequila, and a sugar rim vs. salt (like a crusta). Holy moley it's heaven.

Posted by: Bivalve Curious at October 26, 2013 06:03 PM (aGqSh)

116 (And lemon instead of lime)

Posted by: Bivalve Curious at October 26, 2013 06:20 PM (aGqSh)

117 Here's a tip: If you hate that creepy tequila bite like I do, you can substitute rum for it. You have to call it a daiquiri, which sounds kind of gay, but it's worth it to not have to drink that horrid cactus juice.

Posted by: Kevin at October 26, 2013 06:32 PM (KKu10)

118 Try New Amsterdam, not as costly as premium gins. My new favorite is Bombay Sapphire East.

Posted by: Qzsusy at October 26, 2013 07:01 PM (J0VjC)

119 1/2 cup fresh-squeezed lime juice 3/4 cup Cointreau 1 cup (scant) orange juice (not from concentrate!) 1 1/3 cups Sauza Conmemorativo Mix well. Fill glass with ice and margarita, transfer to shaker, shake (don't forget to smile), pour into glass with or without ice. Makes approximately six

Posted by: Grandmalcaesar at October 27, 2013 07:08 AM (FvBWq)

120 nice...i'll have to go find the ingredients now

cointreau? never heard of it

Posted by: girl at October 27, 2013 10:56 AM (x3cth)

121 i wouldn't call that a Margarita, i'd call it at DUI.

just sayin...

Posted by: asswipee at October 27, 2013 02:06 PM (eS0nh)

122 This was a great salve to the Cowboys loss.

Posted by: Kifred at October 27, 2013 04:57 PM (pjAhK)

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