Don Julio Recipe

Chill glass

If desired, place a rocks glass or coupe in the freezer for 5–10 minutes or fill with ice water while you assemble ingredients so the cocktail stays cold longer.

Make demerara syrup (if you don't have it)

Combine equal parts demerara sugar and hot water (for example 1/4 cup sugar + 1/4 cup water). Stir until sugar dissolves and cool before using. Store leftovers refrigerated.

Add 2 oz añejo tequila, 1/2 oz orange curaçao, 1/2 oz fresh lime juice, 1/4 oz demerara or dark brown sugar syrup, and 2 dashes Angostura bitters into a mixing glass.

Fill the mixing glass with ice (about 6 large cubes). Stir briskly for 20–30 seconds until well chilled and properly diluted (glass should feel very cold).

Discard ice/water from your chilled glass (if used). Strain the cocktail through a julep or fine strainer into the chilled rocks glass over one large clear ice cube or into a coupe if preferred.

Express the oils of the large orange peel over the drink by holding it skin-side down about 3–4 inches above the surface and giving it a firm twist, then run the peel around the rim and drop it into the glass.

Optional: add a lime wheel on the rim for a subtle visual cue. Serve immediately.