The Tommy’s Margarita

By Steve Kilcullen Jump to Recipe

The Tommy’s Margarita is a delicious and agave-centric version of the classic summertime cocktail.

Even if you’re not that into drinking alcoholic beverages or any mixed drink, chances are you’ve had some version of the Margarita. On the rocks, flavored and even frozen, this cocktail is simple, strong and tasty. So much so that almost anywhere you go that serves a tipple or two will have at least a few different kinds of Margaritas for you to choose from.

Before we get to tonight’s recipe, let’s take a quick look at what goes into a traditional Margarita. Shaken and served on the rocks, this legendary sipper consists of blanco tequila, triple sec and lime juice. Some salt on the rim of your glass cuts the acidity down and adds a little bite to each sip, too. No matter how many riffs on this drink are out there, none will ever overshadow or come close to the original. Although, there is one Margarita that has come mighty close…

Tonight’s cocktail, the Tommy’s Margarita, was invented in the 1990s in San Francisco. Your assumption might be that the drink is named after somebody called Tommy. It’s actually the invention of Julio Bermejo, who was the beverage manager at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant. Julio was inspired to elevate and enhance the earthy flavors in the Margarita, so he omitted the triple sec that’s usually mixed in and replaced it with agave nectar. He would also use 100% agave tequila, resulting in a lighter, fresher and more spirit-forward drink.

In 2008, the Tommy’s Margarita made history by becoming the first venue-specific cocktail added to the International Bartenders Association (IBA) list of officially recognized mixed beverages, under the category of “New Era Drinks”.

What’s The Difference Between A Classic Margarita And A Tommy’s Margarita?

Both the classic Margarita and the Tommy’s Margarita are prepped and served the same way, shaken over ice and served on the rocks. The main difference is the absence of the triple sec liqueur, Cointreau or Grand Marnier that’s present in just about every ‘Rita recipe out there. Agave nectar is used instead, giving the mixture an earthier and more tequila-forward flavor, and being less sweet overall.

What Is The Best Tequila To Use In A Tommy’s Margarita?

Margaritas are traditionally made with blanco tequila, which has a clear texture and a crisp, peppery taste that mixes beautifully with the sour citrus. For a Tommy’s Margarita, it is always best to use 100% agave tequila, without any additives or refined sugars. The flavor of your cocktail will be light, spirit-forward and most of all, refreshing.

WHAT GLASSWARE AND GARNISH IS USED?

A rocks glass, with a salted rim and a plump, juicy lime wedge to top it off is the proper way to enjoy a Tommy’s Margarita.

IS AGAVE NECTAR HARD TO FIND?

Agave nectar is fairly easy to find at most liquor and grocery stores. You’ll want to pick a bottle labeled “raw”, as once its refined into a syrup other additives are often put in.

Other Margarita Variations

There are so many different Margaritas floating around out there that one could write a three-volume book about them. Or maybe a one-volume book. I should look into that. Anyway, after you’ve had a few invigorating sessions with the Tommy’s Margarita, you might want to take a gander at some other versions of this classic dram. Check these recipes out and give them a try this weekend. Then explore Twist & Toast for even more cocktail ideas.

• Espresso Margarita – Need to wake up a little while you’re lounging? This beverage will do the trick.
• Frozen Margarita – Learn how to make and serve this popular summertime treat.
• Sangria Margarita – Red wine joins the ‘Rita party in this frozen and layered concoction.
• Cadillac Margarita – Take this luxurious and glamorized version of the classic recipe for a spin.