perfect margarita
Celebrations Sips

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

The margarita is a classic cocktail that never goes out of fashion and is easy to make well.


More popularly celebrated in the United States than in Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is associated with the celebration of Mexican-American culture. These celebrations began in California, where they have been observed annually since 1863. The day gained nationwide popularity in the 1980s thanks especially to advertising campaigns by beer and wine companies. It seems ironic since everyone I know celebrates with a margarita.

The margarita is a classic cocktail that many American’s associate with the holiday and Mexican cuisine. It comes together fairly easy to make if you use the recipe of thirds. It has served me well over the years and I make them often.

Margarita Preparation

Mix the following in a pitcher or shaker with ice, shake thoroughly and strain into a glass with ice and garnish with a fresh lime wedge/slice.

On average, a margarita is about 3 ounces of liquid. Of that, 2 to 2.5 ounces is alcohol, with a bit of lime juice/mixer and some water from melted ice. With 80 proof tequila and factoring in mixers and melting ice, margaritas have about 33% ABV.

There are also great recipes online which speak to the perfect margarita but I think my recipe is perfect. You tell us what you think. Looking for glasses to use for your celebration? I love the handblown glasses here.

Serve with homemade guacamole, fresh salsa and chips – your celebration for Cinco de Mayo will always be perfect. If you want another cocktail try the Crimson Sky.