Nina-rita Recipe

Prepare glass (optional)

If you want a salted rim, run the lime wedge around the rim of a rocks glass, then dip the rim into coarse salt or mezcal salt set on a small plate. Fill the glass with about 1 cup of ice and set aside.

Muddle fruit

In a mixing glass or shaker, place 4 pitted cherries and the remaining lime wedge (squeeze once into the shaker before muddling to release extra juice). Add 0.5 oz simple syrup. Using a muddler, gently but firmly muddle the cherries and lime to release juices and break down fruit — about 10–15 firm twists until mixture is pulpy but not pureed.

Build and shake

Add 2 oz Cuidado Blanco tequila, 1 oz Cointreau, 0.75 oz fresh lime juice, and 6 ice cubes to the muddled fruit in the shaker. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds until the shaker is chilled and slightly frosted.

Double-strain and serve

Using a fine-mesh strainer and the shaker’s built-in strainer, double-strain the cocktail into the prepared rocks glass over the fresh ice to remove cherry solids and lime pulp. This yields a smooth drink with bright fruit flavor.

Garnish and finish

Garnish with a fresh cherry (skewered or placed on a pick) and, if desired, a thin lime wheel. Serve immediately.

Notes

Adjust sweetness by increasing or decreasing simple syrup in 0.25 oz increments. For a lighter, more effervescent version, top with a splash (about 1 oz) of club soda and serve in a highball glass.