The Classic Margarita, Improved

Tequila is everywhere. Every magazine, newspaper and Web site in Phoenix is primed and ready for Cinco de Mayo with images of frosty margaritas. During tourism season in the Phoenix area, I would wager we serve enough margaritas to turn the locals off for the rest of the year.

Even Gourmet magazine got into it with their article on premium 100% agave tequilas by James Rodewald in the April issue, emphasizing that a combination of a huge crop of agave plants in Mexico, combined with renewed interest in the highest quality spirit that goes down smooth - nothing like the grimace-causing tequila shots from college.

So, when just I am noticing tequila everywhere, I received an email from Partida tequila featuring information on their 100% agave tequila and 100% agave nectar margaritas.

I have had some premium tequilas, but I have never had agave syrup and Partida's margarita recipe sang praises of lower calories, better flavor, no additives or dyes or other unnatural fillers. Margaritas made with mixes are usually filled with corn syrup, chemical dyes and who knows what else, and even purist margaritas with orange liqueur can be very sweet, so I was sold - I had to try it.

My review? This really is a classic margarita, but better. Sweet but not too sweet, with just enough tang and flavor from the tequila. My best friend swears it just may be the best margarita she has ever had.

Even if you can't find Partida brand or you have another favorite, do source out 100% agave tequila and agave nectar (try Whole Foods)- because this margarita rocks.

I'm off to Mexico for the weekend - you can bet I'll be drinking a few of these. This is the view from the patio of where I'll be staying:

Classic Margarita - recipe courtesy of Partida:
(makes 1 cocktail)
1.5 oz 100% agave tequila
1 oz fresh squeezed lime juice
3/4 oz 100% agave nectar
3/4 oz water

Directions:
Shake over ice in a cocktail shaker, strain and pour over fresh ice. Add additional lime juice for more tartness if needed, or agave nectar for more sweetness if needed. No garnish needed, no salt needed.