French Margarita

What better temporary relief to the Siberian like weather here than a cocktail. Hot Toddies and Mulled Wine may be cold weather beverages, but margaritas are definitely all-weather ones. Many of us think of margaritas as a Mexican in origin cocktail, particularly since the tequila in them comes from, where else, but Mexico. But what if two thirds of the alcohol in a margarita were French in origin (Grand Marnier and Chambord)? Well maybe we could call it a French Margarita and simultaneously pay homage to both cultures for their contributions to the world of spirits.

I can't believe I am sharing this but I just recently became aware of the ounce to tablespoon conversion. Specifically one fluid ounce equals two tablespoons. Just knowing this conversion suddenly makes mixing cocktails including this French Margarita so much easier. This frame of reference now gives me a way to visualize what an ounce looks like.

If you have a well stocked bar, you have everything you need to make this. Just don't forget to pick up a few fresh limes and some orange juice at the grocery store (I have an aversion to the bottled lime juice they sell). All of the ingredients are poured into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. After shaking, pour into a glass (with or without ice). A garnish of raspberries and/or blackberries is optional. 

Just one sip of the French Margarita and suddenly the weather is the furthest thing from my mind. This cocktail is definitely a most welcome reprieve from the arctic temperatures (although I think it might actually be warmer in the arctic this year).

Recipe
French Margarita

Ingredients
2 ounces tequila (silver)
1 ounce Grand Marnier
1 ounce Chambord
1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
1/2 ounce orange juice
1/2 ounce sweet and sour mix
Ice
Optional: raspberries and/or blackberries as garnish

Directions
1. Fill a shaker with ice.
2. Add all ingredients and shake vigorously.
3. Pour into a glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with raspberries and/or blackberries.