The Illegal

About The Illegal

The Illegal is a bold and smoky cocktail that pays homage to the robust flavors of mezcal, a distilled agave spirit with distinctive smoky undertones. This cocktail combines the earthy and smoky notes of mezcal with the richness of Averna, an amaro with herbal and citrusy characteristics. The Illegal is a complex and intriguing drink that caters to those with an appreciation for adventurous and avant-garde cocktails.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz Mezcal

• 3/4 oz Averna

• 1/2 oz Maraschino Liqueur

• 1/2 oz Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice

• 1/4 oz Agave Nectar

• Lime wheel or twist

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       3.5 Stars

• Served:      Neat

• Strength:   Medium

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Bitter

Method:

In a shaker, combine mezcal, Averna, maraschino liqueur, freshly squeezed lime juice, and agave nectar. Fill the shaker with ice and shake the ingredients vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to chill the mixture. Strain the contents into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lime wheel or twist.

The Grateful Dead

About The Grateful Dead

As Empire Mixology’s resident Master Mixologist and a self-claimed “Long Island-style Cocktail Expert,” I’d love to tell you that Grateful Deads are a fun recipe that’s packed with flavor, but its not. Unlike the Long Island Iced Tea that attempts to hide alcohol content, the Grateful Dead does very little to mask its intense alcohol profile. The Raspberry Liqueur does little to nothing in the vein of dulling the bite of the spirits.

Popular in most college bars and dives throughout the country, the Grateful Dead is a great night starter cocktail since they are typically cheaply made and can be thrown together quickly. Add Lemon Lime Soda to make the cocktail more palatable if desired. The fun part of this recipe is that the Grateful Dead is typically garnished with fun concepts such as gummy bears, candy, sprinkles, fruit.

Ingredients:

• ½ oz. Tequila

• ½ oz. Rum

• ½ oz. Gin

• ½ oz. Vodka

• ½ oz. Triple Sec

• Splash of Lemon Juice

• Splash of Simple Syrup

• Splash. Raspberry Liqueur

• Splash Blue Curacao

• FIll Lemon Lime Soda

Cocktail Profile

• Rating: 4 Stars

• Served: On the Rocks

• Strength: Strong

• Difficulty: Simple

• Flavor: Spirit Forward

Method:

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes to chill the ingredients. Measure and pour 1/2 ounce each of vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and triple sec into the shaker. This combination of spirits forms the base of the Grateful Dead. Pour 3/4 ounce of simple syrup into the shaker for sweetness. Pour 3/4 ounce of fresh lemon juice into the shaker for a citrusy kick. Shake the ingredients vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to ensure proper mixing and chilling. Pour raspberry liqueur and gummy bears into bottom of a highball glass. Strain the mixture from the shaker into the highball glass and fill with ice. Top up the glass with a splash of lemon lime soda for effervescence. Gently add a splash to give it the signature effect. Optionally, give the ingredients a gentle stir to combine the flavors.

The Mid-Winter Margarita

About The Mid-Winter Margarita

The Mid-Winter Margarita is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail, designed to bring a burst of tropical sunshine to the coldest months of the year. Crafted with care, it combines premium tequila, orange liqueur, and freshly squeezed lime juice. What sets this winter-worthy margarita apart is the addition of grapefruit juice, and chili salt that mirrors the warmth of a crackling fire. Served over ice and garnished with a twist of orange peel or a sprig of rosemary, this cocktail is a cozy and festive indulgence, perfect for holiday gatherings and nights by the fireplace. The Mid-Winter Margarita is sure to brighten even the chilliest of evenings with its rich flavors and inviting colors.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Triple Sec

• 1 oz. Lime Juice

• 1 oz. Grapefruit Juice

• Lime Wedges for Garnish

• Chili Salt (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Tart

Method:

Pour tequila, lime juice, grapefruit juice, and triple sec into a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a margarita glass rimmed with chili salt.

The Apple Spice Margarita

About The Apple Spice Margarita

The Apple Spice Margarita is a delightful autumn-inspired twist on the classic cocktail, offering a harmonious blend of seasonal flavors. This unique libation combines top-shelf tequila with apple cider, a touch of orange liqueur, and freshly squeezed lime juice to create a refreshing base. What sets this margarita apart is the infusion of warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, which add a cozy depth of flavor, reminiscent of freshly baked apple pie. Rimmed with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar, and garnished with a thin apple slice or a cinnamon stick, this cocktail captures the essence of fall in every sip, making it the perfect choice for a crisp evening by the bonfire or a festive Thanksgiving gathering. The Apple Spice Margarita is a delightful way to toast to the season's bounty.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Triple Sec

• 1 oz. Apple Cider

• ½ oz. Lime Juice

• ½ oz. Simple Syrup (or to taste)

• ¼ tsp. Cinnamon

• Pinch of Ground Cloves

• Apple Slice or Cinnamon Stick for Garnish

• Cinnamon/Sugar Mixture (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.5 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Apple

Method:

In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, apple cider, orange liqueur, freshly squeezed lime juice, simple syrup, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of ground cloves. Shake until chilled and strain into rimmed Margarita glass. Garnish accordingly.

The Honey Apple Margarita

About The Honey Apple Margarita

The Honey Apple Margarita is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy, offering a perfect balance of flavors for a refreshing cocktail. This autumn-inspired libation combines the richness of apple flavor with the bright zest of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a drizzle of honey, resulting in a harmonious concoction. Shake all the ingredients together with ice until well chilled, then strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a thin apple slice and a drizzle of honey for an elegant touch. This cocktail embodies the crisp and comforting essence of fall, making it an ideal choice for cozy gatherings or simply sipping by the fireplace as you embrace the changing seasons.

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Apple Juice

• ¾ oz. Lemon Juice

• ½ oz. Honey Syrup

• Apple Slices for Garnish

• Celery Salt (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Sweet

Method:

Pour tequila, lemon juice, apple juice, and honey syrup into a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a margarita glass rimmed with celery salt.

The Italian Margarita

About The Italian Margarita

The Italian Margarita is a Mediterranean twist on the classic cocktail, seamlessly blending the zest of Italy with the tequila-based spirit of Mexico. This exotic libation marries the flavors of premium tequila with the vibrant tang of amaretto liqueur and freshly squeezed lime juice. The addition of orange juice adds a hint of citrusy brightness, and a touch of agave syrup balances the sweetness to perfection. Served over ice and garnished with a slice of fresh lime or a twist of orange zest, the Italian Margarita is a refreshing, sophisticated, and delightfully boozy fusion that's perfect for sipping on a sunny patio or alongside your favorite Italian dishes.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Amaretto

• 1 oz. Lime Juice

• ¾ oz. Orange Juice

• ½ oz. Agave Syrup

• Lime Wedge for Garnish

• Sugar/Salt Mix (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Sweet

Method:

Pour tequila, lime juice, orange juice, agave syrup, and Amaretto into a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a margarita glass rimmed with sugar/salt mixture.

The Mango Margarita

About The Mango Margarita

The Mango Margarita is a tropical paradise in a glass, a vibrant and luscious cocktail that transports your taste buds to sun-soaked beaches and swaying palm trees. Crafted with care, it combines premium tequila, triple sec, and freshly pureed ripe mango, creating a velvety, sweet, and tangy base. A splash of freshly squeezed lime juice provides the perfect balance of acidity. Blended with ice until it's smooth and frosty, this delightful concoction is a refreshingly exotic escape that captures the essence of summer. Garnished with a slice of fresh mango or a lime wedge, the Mango Margarita is the ultimate thirst-quencher for beachside getaways, pool parties, or any occasion when you crave a taste of the tropics. Sip and savor the sunny vibes in every sip.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Triple Sec

• 2 oz. Mango Puree

• 1 oz. Lime Juice

• ½ oz. Simple Syrup

• Ice

• Lime Wedge for Garnish

• Salt Mix (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Sweet

Method:

Blend ingredients with ice until smooth. Pour into a margarita glass rimmed with salt. Garnish accordingly.

The Jalapeno Margarita

About The Jalapeno Margarita

The Jalapeño Margarita is a bold and spicy twist on the classic cocktail, delivering a fiery kick that awakens the taste buds. This exciting libation combines premium tequila with the heat of fresh jalapeño slices, balanced by the bright zing of freshly squeezed lime juice and a hint of orange liqueur. A touch of simple syrup or agave nectar adds sweetness to complement the heat. Muddled jalapeños release their spicy essence, infusing the drink with a tantalizing warmth. Served over ice and garnished with a jalapeño slice or a lime wheel, the Jalapeño Margarita is the perfect choice for those who enjoy a little heat in their cocktails. It's a fiery, invigorating, and unforgettable way to spice up your margarita game.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Triple Sec

• 1 oz. Lime Juice

• ½ oz. Simple Syrup

• 2-3 slices of Fresh Jalapeno Peppers

• Ice

• Jalapeno Slice for Garnish

• Salt (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Hot

Method:

Muddle jalapeno slices to release juices. Add other ingredients to a shaker and shake until chilled. Double strain into a rimmed Margarita glass with ice. Garnish accordingly.

The Raspberry Margarita

About The Raspberry Margarita

The Raspberry Margarita is a vibrant and tangy twist on the classic cocktail, boasting the irresistible allure of ripe, red raspberries. Crafted with care, this delightful libation combines premium tequila with freshly muddled raspberries, a splash of orange liqueur for citrusy brightness, and freshly squeezed lime juice to add the perfect zesty kick. A touch of simple syrup or agave nectar enhances the fruity sweetness, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Served over ice and garnished with a few fresh raspberries or a lime wheel, the Raspberry Margarita is a refreshing and visually stunning choice for a sunny afternoon on the patio, a summer soirée, or whenever you crave the luscious tang of raspberries in a margarita form. Each sip is a burst of sweet, tart, and boozy bliss.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Triple Sec

• 1 oz. Lime Juice

• ½ oz. Simple Syrup

• ¼ cup of Fresh Raspberries

• Ice

• Lime Wedge or Raspberries for Garnish

• Sugar (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Sweet

Method:

Muddle raspberries to release juices. Add other ingredients to a shaker and shake until chilled. Double strain into a rimmed Margarita glass with ice. Garnish accordingly.

The Beer-a-Rita

About The Beer-a-Rita

The Beer-a-Rita is a fun and refreshing fusion of two beloved beverages, beer and margaritas, resulting in a delightful and thirst-quenching concoction. To craft this lively drink, start with a classic sour mix, combining tequila, triple sec, and freshly squeezed lime juice. But here's where the magic happens: instead of topping it off with soda or more citrus, you add a crisp and cold bottle of your favorite beer, allowing the effervescence and malty goodness to meld with the zesty margarita flavors. The result is a bubbly, tangy, and slightly hoppy delight that's perfect for those who love a little beer in their cocktails, and it's an ideal companion for casual gatherings, game days, or just a relaxed evening with friends. Cheers to the Beer-a-Rita, a tasty hybrid that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Tequila

• 1½ oz. Triple Sec

• 1 oz. Lime Juice

• 2 oz. Sour Mix

• Salt (for rim of glass)

• 1 Bottle of your favorite Beer

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Beeer

Method:

Rim glass with salt. Mix tequila, triple sec, sour mix, and lime juice with ice. Strain into a margarita glass. Turn a bottle of your favorite beer upside down into glass or top off cocktail as needed.

The Watermelon Margarita

About The Watermelon Margarita

The Watermelon Margarita is a refreshing and summery twist on the classic cocktail, offering a burst of juicy, sweet watermelon flavor in every sip. This delightful libation combines premium tequila with freshly pureed watermelon, a splash of orange liqueur for a citrusy kick, and freshly squeezed lime juice to brighten the blend. A touch of simple syrup or agave nectar adds just the right amount of sweetness. Blended with ice until it's frosty and smooth, the Watermelon Margarita is the epitome of a summer breeze in a glass. Serve it in a salt-rimmed glass or garnish with a watermelon slice, and you'll have the perfect drink for poolside lounging, beach parties, or any warm-weather celebration. Each sip is a burst of sunshine and refreshment.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Triple Sec

• 2 oz. Watermelon Puree

• 1 oz. Lime Juice

• ½ oz. Simple Syrup

• Ice

• Lime Wedge or Watermelon for Garnish

• Salt (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Sweet

Method:

Blend ingredients with ice until smooth. Pour into a margarita glass rimmed with salt. Garnish accordingly.

The Pineapple Margarita

About The Pineapple Margarita

The Pineapple Margarita is a sunny and tropical delight, capturing the essence of a beachside paradise in every sip. This enchanting cocktail combines premium tequila with the sweet and tangy notes of freshly pureed pineapple and a splash of zesty lime juice. A touch of triple sec or orange liqueur enhances the citrusy brightness while a hint of simple syrup balances the flavors. Blended with ice until it's refreshingly frosty, the Pineapple Margarita boasts a smooth, luscious texture and a vibrant, tropical taste that's perfect for sipping by the pool, during a summer barbecue, or whenever you desire a sweet and tangy escape. Garnished with a pineapple slice or a lime wedge, it's a vacation in a glass that's sure to brighten any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Triple Sec

• 2 oz. Pineapple Puree

• 1 oz. Lime Juice

• ½ oz. Simple Syrup

• Ice

• Lime Wedge for Garnish

• Salt Mix (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Sweet

Method:

Blend ingredients with ice until smooth. Pour into a margarita glass rimmed with salt. Garnish accordingly.

The Melon Margarita

About The Melon Margarita

The Melon Margarita is a refreshingly sweet and tropical take on the classic margarita, transporting your taste buds to a sunny paradise with every sip. This luscious cocktail combines premium tequila, triple sec, and freshly pureed ripe melon, which infuses it with a vibrant and naturally sweet melon flavor. A splash of freshly squeezed lime juice balances the sweetness with a tangy kick, while a touch of agave syrup adds a smooth finish. Served over ice and garnished with a melon slice or lime wedge, the Melon Margarita is a summertime favorite that's both incredibly thirst-quenching and irresistibly delicious. Enjoy this tropical delight by the pool, at a beachside barbecue, or whenever you crave a taste of sunshine in a glass.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz. Tequila

• ½ oz. Triple Sec

• ½ oz. Lime Juice

• Dash of Agave Syrup

• ½ oz. Melon Liqueur

• ½ Cup of Fresh Melon

• Sugar (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Sweet

Method:

Pour tequila, lime juice, and triple sec into shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into cocktail glass rimmed with sugar. Blend melon and melon liqueur until pureed. Gently pour into glass and stir gently.

The Banana Margarita

About The Banana Margarita

The Banana Margarita is a delightful twist on the classic margarita, offering a creamy and tropical escape that's both refreshing and indulgent. This unique cocktail combines premium tequila with the smooth richness of banana flavor, freshly squeezed lime juice, and a touch of triple sec for a zesty kick. Blended with ice until velvety and frothy, the Banana Margarita boasts a luscious texture and a sweet, tropical flavor profile that's reminiscent of a banana smoothie with a boozy twist. Served in a salt-rimmed glass or garnished with a banana slice, it's a perfect choice for a relaxing day by the pool, a beachside getaway, or whenever you crave a taste of the tropics in a cocktail. Sip and savor the creamy, banana-infused bliss with every sip.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Triple Sec

• 1 oz. Lime Juice

• 1 oz. Simple Syrup

• 1½ Bananas

• Ice

• Banana for Garnish

• Salt (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       5 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Banana

Method:

Blend all ingredients with ice until smooth. Pour into a margarita glass rimmed with salt.

The Black Diamond

About The Black Diamond

The Black Diamond Margarita is the epitome of elegance and sophistication in cocktail form, offering a unique and luxurious twist on the classic margarita. Crafted with the finest ingredients, this exquisite libation combines top-shelf tequila, blackberry simple syrup, and freshly squeezed lime juice, but what truly sets it apart is the addition of Hawaiian volcanic salt, which gives it its striking black hue garnish. Garnish with a lime wheel for contrast, and you have a cocktail that's as visually stunning as it is delicious, making it the perfect choice for a chic soirée or a memorable evening of cocktail indulgence.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Silver Tequila

• 1½ oz. Blackberry Simple Syrup

• 1 oz. Lime Juice

• Hawaiian Black Salt (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Spirit/Sweet

Method:

Pour all ingredients into shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into glass rimmed with black salt.

The Texas Margarita

About The Texas Margarita

The Texas Margarita is a bold and zesty twist on the classic cocktail, infusing the spirit of the Lone Star State into every sip. To create this Lone Star gem, rim your glass with chili salt for an extra kick, then mix the tequila, orange juice, freshly squeezed lime juice, and a splash of orange liqueur over ice. The result is a harmonious blend of citrusy and slightly spicy notes that perfectly capture the spirit of Texas in a glass. Sip it slowly and savor the Texan charm with each refreshing sip.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Gold Tequila

• 1½ oz. Orange Liqueur

• 1 oz. Lime Juice

• 1 oz. Orange Juice

• Dash Agave Syrup

• Salt (for rim of glass)

• Lime Wedge for Garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Spirit

Method:

Pour all ingredients into shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into glass rimmed with salt.

The Naked and Famous

About The Naked and Famous

The Naked and Famous is a new era cocktail that has been added to the list of IBA Official Cocktails. Although I typically discourage intensely specific cocktails due to their inability to replicate accurately, the Naked and Famous is a throwback to a bygone era of cocktails and has the flavor profile to back it up.

Ingredients:

• ¾ oz. Mezcal

• ¾ oz. Aperol

• ¾ oz. Yellow Chartreuse

• ¾ oz. Lime Juice

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       3.5 Stars

• Served:      Neat

• Strength:   Strong

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Spirit Forward

Method:

Pour all ingredients into shaker with ice cubes. Shake well. Strain into chilled cocktail glass.

The Vampiro

About The Vampiro

The Mexican National Drink, the Vampiro is a Tequila based variant of the world famous Bloody Mary. The Vampiro is a former IBA Official Cocktail but has since fallen off the list. Although somewhat less preparation than its counterpart, the Vampiro essentially keeps a similar palate for flavor. Experiment with garnishes and slight additives to find the perfect recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Tequila

• 2½ oz. Tomato Juice

• 1 oz. Orange Juice

• 1 tsp. Clear Honey

• ½ oz. Lime Juice

• Few Drops Worcestershire Sauce

• Half Slice of Onion, finely chopped

• Few Slices of Red Chili Pepper

• Salt for Garnish

• Orange Slice, Chili Pepper for Garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       3.5 Stars

• Served:      On the Rocks

• Strength:   Mild

• Difficulty:  Medium

• Flavor:       Ouch

Method:

Pour ingredients into glass rimmed with salt. Stir.

The Mexicana

About The Mexicana

The Mexicana is a fruity flavored, tequila based cocktail that mirrors a typical tropical style cocktail with a different flavor profile. The pineapple and grenadine flavors help to smooth the boldness of tequila and the citrus lemon also assists with the aftertaste of the spirit. Best enjoyed in the spring and summer and a good pairing for southern-style food.

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Lemon Juice

• ½ oz. Pineapple Juice

• 1 tsp. Grenadine

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:      Neat

• Strength:   Mild

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Fruity

Method:

Shake ingredients with ice until very well chilled. Strain into chilled cocktail glass.

The Texas Tea

About The Texas Tea

Would you look at that, yet another variant of the Long Island Iced Tea! Meet it’s Southern cousin the Texas Tea! Adding a shot of Bourbon changes the flavor profile of this cocktail to be a bit bolder. The color also darkens slightly versus the OG Tea. Truth be told, the Empire Mixology Official Long Island Iced Tea is quite similar to this recipe due to the secret ingredient we use. (Check it out if you haven’t already!)

Ingredients:

• 1 oz. Vodka

• 1¼ oz. Rum

• ¾ oz. Gin

• ¾ oz. Tequila

• 1 oz. Triple Sec

• 1 oz. Bourbon Whiskey

• 4½ oz. Sour Mix

• Splash of Coca Cola

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.5 Stars

• Served:      On the Rocks

• Strength:   Strong

• Difficulty:  Medium

• Flavor:       Spirit

Method:

Build ingredients in cocktail shaker with ice, except for the coca cola. Gently shake a few times to chill ingredients. Pour with ice into highball or pint glass. Add splash of coke and stir gently. Add lemon wedge and cherry as garnish.