Aperol Margarita Recipe
aperol, jose cuervo tradicional® blanco tequila, lime juice & mint
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Ingredients
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Cocktail
Method
Cocktail
Prepare the glass (optional)
Rub a lime wedge around the rim of a rocks or coupe glass. Dip the rim into coarse salt or Tajín spread on a small plate to coat. Set the glass aside in the freezer or fridge to chill while you mix the cocktail.
Muddle mint
In a cocktail shaker, place 6 fresh mint leaves and the agave syrup (0.25 oz). Gently muddle the mint just enough to release the oils — about 4–6 gentle presses. Avoid over-muddling to prevent bitterness.
Combine liquids
Add to the shaker: 2 oz Jose Cuervo Tradicional® Blanco tequila, 1 oz Aperol, 1 oz fresh lime juice, and 0.5 oz orange liqueur (if using).
Add ice and shake
Fill the shaker with ice (about 1 cup). Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds until well-chilled and properly diluted.
Double strain and serve
If you muddled mint, double-strain the cocktail into the prepared chilled glass over fresh ice (or serve neat in a coupe). Double straining with a fine mesh strainer removes small mint bits and ice shards for a clean texture.
Garnish
Express a lime wheel over the drink to release oils, then garnish with the lime wheel or wedge and a small sprig of mint. Optionally slap the mint between your hands first to awaken the aroma before tucking it into the drink.
Adjustments & serving notes
Taste and adjust sweetness with a little more agave syrup if needed. For a slightly more bitter finish, increase Aperol to 1.25 oz; for a more classic margarita profile, keep orange liqueur. Serve immediately.