¡Viva Margarita!

There are dozens of origin stories about the invention of this universally loved cocktail. Many of them involve suave bartenders creating a special drink for a favorite show girl or socialite. The truth of the cocktail's genesis is lost somewhere in the mists of time, but its legend and appeal live on.

With many variations available to customize a Margarita, the basic recipe is nonetheless quite simple. Esquire magazine named the Margarita its "Drink of the Month" in December, 1953 and its proportions have stood the test of time.

Ingredients:

• 1 ounce tequila
• Dash of Triple Sec
• Juice of 1/2 lime or lemon

Instructions:

Pour over crushed ice, stir. Rub the rim of a stem glass with rind of lemon or lime, spin in salt—pour, and sip.

A simple formula, yes, but open to change and suggestion. Do you like a frozen Margarita? Increase the measured ingredients a little and throw them in the blender with ice. I'm a fan of this basic recipe shaken and poured over ice in a cocktail glass with a salted rim. Some people prefer the mellower effect of lemon juice over lime, but I'm of the opinion that fresh lime juice is key. And don't skimp on the tequila. Buy the highest quality you can afford and revel in the smokey nuance of this drink.

A final word of caution. A well made Margarita goes down easily. It also packs a punch that can sneak up on you when you least expect it. Proceed with caution.

Buena suerte, amigos.

Lychee Martini

Let it be known that the Lychee Martini is no quotidian cocktail, but an alcohol-infused punctuation to an important event. It is slightly sweet, light, and fragrant, an exotic take on an iconic libation.

Yes, you could call it a Girlie Drink, but you’d be wrong. Think of it more as an exotic alternative to a classic Martini, a luscious libation with a hint of mystery and intrigue.

Ingredients (for one Lychee Martini)

·      1 oz Vodka

·      2 canned lychees

·      2 oz syrup from canned lychees

·      juice of half a lime

Instructions

• Put two lychees in a martini glass and freeze for half an hour.
• Combine remaining ingredients in an ice-filled cocktail shaker and shake vigorously. Extra points if you are dancing as you shake.
• Pour over the frozen lychees.
• If you are feeling particularly festive, add a splash of Champagne or prosecco. Because…bubbles!