Cadillac Margarita

The Cadillac Margarita elevates the iconic tequila cocktail into a more refined and complex experience. By swapping standard triple sec for the cognac-based Grand Marnier and typically using a high-quality reposado tequila, it achieves a smoother, richer flavor profile. The result is a perfectly balanced drink where the bright, tart lime is complemented by deep notes of orange, vanilla, and a subtle oakiness from the aged spirits. It's a sophisticated sipper that showcases the quality of its ingredients.
Cadillac Margarita

Preparation

Preparation time: 3 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

The Cadillac Margarita is classified as a classic cocktail. It belongs to the "sour" family of drinks, characterized by a base spirit, a sour element (lime juice), and a sweet element (liqueur and/or syrup). While not an official IBA cocktail, it is a universally recognized and requested premium variation of the classic Margarita.

Serving

The Cadillac Margarita is a potent, cold cocktail served 'up' in a chilled coupe or Margarita glass, often with a salted rim to enhance its flavors. Alternatively, it can be served on the rocks in a rocks glass with a large ice cube.
Serving size
Approximately 120 ml / 4 oz (before ice)
Alcohol content
Approximately 25-30% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Coupe Glass
Glass treatment
Optional coarse salt rim

Backstory

There is no single credited inventor for the Cadillac Margarita, but its emergence is tied to the growing appreciation for premium spirits in the latter half of the 20th century. As high-quality 100% agave tequilas and premium liqueurs became more widely available and popular in the United States, bartenders and patrons began creating "top-shelf" versions of classic cocktails. The name "Cadillac" was colloquially applied to signify this deluxe status, cementing its place as a symbol of cocktail luxury.
Origin
The Cadillac Margarita likely originated in the United States during the 1980s or 1990s. This era saw a significant increase in the popularity of Mexican cuisine and tequila culture north of the border. As cocktail connoisseurship grew, so did the demand for upgraded classics made with superior ingredients, leading to the creation of this premium Margarita variant.

Cadillac Margarita

The drink is most commonly known as the Cadillac Margarita, a name derived from American slang where "Cadillac" signifies a high-end or premium version of an item. This reflects its use of top-shelf tequila and the premium orange liqueur, Grand Marnier. Alternative names like "Grand Margarita" or "Top-Shelf Margarita" are also used to emphasize the superior quality of its ingredients compared to a standard Margarita.
Original name
Cadillac Margarita
Alternative names
  • Grand Margarita
  • Top-Shelf Margarita

Characteristics overview

This cocktail presents a silky, smooth texture with a beautiful pale golden hue. Its aroma is a delightful mix of fresh lime and rich orange, leading to a flavor profile where tart citrus is perfectly balanced by the sweet, complex notes of Grand Marnier and earthy agave.
Flavor
Citrusy, Agave, Rich, Orange, Smooth
Aroma
Agave, Fresh lime, Orange zest, Cognac
Taste balance
Sour, Sweet
Aftertaste
Warming, Clean, Lingering orange peel
Fizziness
Still
Color appearance
Pale golden, Clear
Texture
Silky, Smooth
Seasonality
Refreshing, Summery, All-season

Flavor intensity & Experience

The flavor intensity is high, with a pronounced sourness from the lime that is expertly balanced by the fruity sweetness of the orange liqueur and agave. The alcohol provides a strong but smooth backbone without overwhelming the other components.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

To craft this premium cocktail, you will need high-quality reposado tequila, Grand Marnier orange liqueur, and freshly squeezed lime juice. A touch of agave nectar can be added to balance the sweetness to your preference.
  • Reposado Tequila60 ml / 2 oz
    Use a 100% agave reposado tequila for a smoother, more complex flavor with hints of oak and vanilla.
  • Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge30 ml / 1 oz
    This cognac-based orange liqueur is the defining ingredient of a Cadillac Margarita.
  • Fresh Lime Juice22.5 ml / 0.75 oz
    Freshly squeezed juice is essential for the best flavor.
  • Agave Nectar7.5 ml / 0.25 oz(optional)
    Adjust to taste. Some may find the Grand Marnier provides enough sweetness.

Ice type

  • Cubed

Mixing equipments

You'll need a standard set of cocktail tools for this drink. A shaker is used to mix and chill the ingredients with ice, while a jigger ensures the balance is perfect, and a strainer provides a clean pour.
  • Cocktail shaker to chill and dilute the ingredients.
  • Jigger or measuring tool for accurate proportions.
  • Strainer (Hawthorne and fine mesh) to ensure a smooth texture.

Instructions

The process is straightforward: rim your glass with salt, shake all liquid ingredients with ice until well-chilled, and double-strain into the glass. Finish with a simple lime garnish for a professional touch.
1. Prepare your glass. If desired, rub a lime wedge along the rim of a chilled coupe or Margarita glass and dip it into a plate of coarse salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine the reposado tequila, Grand Marnier, fresh lime juice, and agave nectar.
3. Fill the shaker with cubed ice, close it securely, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker is frosty cold.
4. Double-strain the contents of the shaker into your prepared glass to remove ice shards and any lime pulp.
5. Garnish with a fresh lime wheel or wedge on the rim of the glass and serve immediately.

Garnishing

A classic salt rim is highly recommended as it contrasts and enhances the drink's sweet and sour flavors. A fresh lime wedge or wheel on the rim adds a final aromatic touch and visual appeal.
  • Salt Rim: Coat the rim of the glass with coarse salt.
  • Lime Wedge or Wheel: Place on the rim of the glass for aroma and aesthetics.

Dietary Information

This is an alcoholic beverage that is naturally vegan and free from common allergens such as gluten, dairy, eggs, and nuts. All ingredients are plant-derived, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.
✓ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

This cocktail contains around 240 calories per serving, primarily from the alcohol and liqueurs. The sugar content is moderate, coming mostly from the Grand Marnier and agave nectar.
Calories
Averagely 240 kcal / 1004 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Averagely 15g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Averagely 14g
Sugar level

Occasions

This cocktail is perfect for celebrations or any occasion that calls for something special. It's an excellent choice for a sophisticated happy hour, a summer gathering, or as an aperitif before a fine Mexican meal. Its premium character makes it feel like a treat, elevating any social event.
  • Celebration
  • Happy Hour
  • Summer Party
  • Dinner Party

Pairing suggestions

The Cadillac Margarita pairs exceptionally well with a variety of Mexican and Latin American dishes. Its bright acidity cuts through rich foods like carnitas or guacamole, while its citrus notes complement the freshness of seafood dishes like ceviche or grilled fish tacos. It's also a perfect companion for salty appetizers.
  • Ceviche
  • Tacos al pastor
  • Guacamole with tortilla chips
  • Grilled fish or shrimp

The Cadillac Margarita: A Luxurious Ride for Your Palate

The Cadillac Margarita is a testament to how quality ingredients can transform a simple drink into a luxurious experience. It replaces the standard Margarita's sharp edges with a smooth, well-rounded profile, thanks to aged tequila and cognac-based liqueur. The balance of tart lime, rich orange, and earthy agave creates a sophisticated yet incredibly refreshing cocktail. It's an ideal choice for tequila lovers and anyone looking to elevate their cocktail hour with a drink that is both classic and classy.

Similar Cocktails

Margarita

The original classic, which typically uses blanco tequila and a standard triple sec or Cointreau instead of reposado tequila and Grand Marnier.

Tommy's Margarita

A modern classic that omits orange liqueur entirely, relying solely on agave nectar for sweetness to highlight the pure flavor of the tequila.

Variations

Spicy Margarita

Adds a fiery kick by muddling fresh chili peppers (like jalapeño or serrano) or using a spicy tincture.

Frozen Margarita

The ingredients are blended with a large amount of ice to create a smooth, slushy texture, often served in a large goblet.

You May Also Like

Game Changer

A creamy, potent, and deceptively smooth tropical rum cocktail that's a cult favorite from the Caribbean.

Rum Sour

A classic sour cocktail that perfectly balances the rich, sweet notes of rum with the sharp tang of fresh citrus.

Old Fashioned

A timeless and sophisticated cocktail featuring whiskey, sugar, and bitters, garnished with an expressive orange peel.

Lychee Martini

A sweet, fragrant, and exotic vodka cocktail that beautifully captures the delicate floral and fruity flavor of lychee.

Have You Tried These Yet?

Ray's Mistake

A famously secret and potent blended Tiki cocktail from the legendary Tiki-Ti bar, with a complex, fruity, and floral profile.

Longshoreman

A refreshing and uniquely herbaceous cocktail featuring Scandinavian aquavit, fresh dill, and lime juice.

Derby

A sophisticated and aromatic gin-based classic, beautifully balancing botanical notes with sweet vermouth and luscious apricot liqueur.

Foggy Bottom

A bold and herbal modern classic cocktail featuring gin, Green Chartreuse, and lime.