Ingredients:
- 1 Tbsp Flaky Sea Salt (for rim, optional)
- 1 Lime Wedge (for rim)
- 5 fl oz (45 ml) Reposado Tequila (100% Agave)
- 1 fl oz (30 ml) Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice
- 75 fl oz (22 ml) Cointreau
- 5 fl oz (15 ml) Agave Nectar (adjust to taste)
- Ice (for shaking and serving)
- 5 fl oz (15 ml) Grand Marnier (for the float)
- 1 Lime Wheel or Wedge (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Rim the Glass (Optional): Place the salt on a small, flat plate. Run a lime wedge around the outer rim of your serving glass, ensuring the liquid only coats the top edge. Dip the rim into the salt to create an even, crisp band. Fill the prepared glass with ice and set aside, or ideally, place the glass in the freezer for 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In the cocktail shaker, measure and pour the Reposado Tequila, fresh lime juice, Cointreau, and Agave Nectar.
- Add Ice: Fill the shaker 3/4 full with fresh ice cubes.
- Shake Vigorously: Secure the lid and shake hard for 15–20 seconds until the shaker is very frosty on the outside. This chills and dilutes the drink properly.
- Strain: Discard the ice from your chilled glass. Strain the cocktail mixture directly into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
- Apply the Float: Carefully pour the 0.5 fl oz (15 ml) of Grand Marnier slowly over the back of a spoon held just above the drink's surface. This technique creates the signature floating layer.
- Garnish and Serve: Place a lime wheel or wedge on the rim. Serve the Classic Cadillac Margarita immediately.