Like A Virgin Margarita Recipe

Rim the glass (optional)

If you want a salted or Tajín rim, run the lime wedge around the glass lip, then dip the rim into a shallow plate with the coarse salt or Tajín. Set glass aside.

Place the chosen serving glass (rocks or coupe) in the freezer for a few minutes while you mix the cocktail to chill it further (optional).

Add the ritual tequila alternative, fresh mandarin juice, fresh lime juice, agave syrup, and orange liqueur alternative into a cocktail shaker.

Fill the shaker with ice (about 3/4 full) and secure the lid.

Shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds until the outside of the shaker is well-chilled and slightly frosted. This chills and dilutes the drink to the proper balance.

Prepare a strainer (or use the shaker's built-in strainer). If you prefer a slightly frothy, silky texture, double-strain through a fine mesh strainer to remove pulp and tiny ice shards.

Pour the cocktail into the prepared glass over fresh ice (if using a rocks glass) or neat into a chilled coupe.

Express the mandarin peel over the drink (optional) to release essential oils, then discard or drop peel in as garnish. Add the lime wheel or mandarin wedge to the rim or floating on the surface.

Serve immediately. Recommend stirring gently once if served over fresh ice to marry flavors.