1800 Tequila Margarita Recipe

This spicy 1800 Tequila Margarita Recipe will help you craft one of the best tequila cocktails at home. If you're not a fan of a spicy margarita, don't leave yet! You can make a perfect traditional margarita recipe by omitting the jalapeno and Tajín on the rim.

This classic margarita recipe, known for its refreshing blend of citrus and tequila, is a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. However, not all 1800 tequilas are made the same. I'll walk you through which tequila might be the best choice for you.

Whether celebrating Taco Tuesday, serving this ultimate summer cocktail poolside, or simply unwinding after a long day, you'll be making the best margarita on the block in no time.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity with Quality - This recipe offers a straightforward approach to a classic margarita using simple ingredients like 1800 Silver Tequila, fresh lime juice, and orange liqueur.
• Balanced Flavor Profile - Combining freshly squeezed lime juice and a hint of agave syrup creates a harmonious blend of tartness and sweetness.
• Versatility - This recipe serves as a base for various margarita variations, allowing you to customize it to your liking.

Substitutions

• Other Tequila - While 1800 Silver Tequila is the best tequila for its smoothness, any high-quality blanco tequila can be used.
• Orange-flavored Liqueur - Triple sec is standard, but Cointreau or Grand Marnier can add a great flavor.
• Sweetener - Agave nectar complements the tequila's natural flavors, but simple syrup is a suitable alternative.

Variations

• Traditional Margarita - This version is a spicy version of the classic margarita. But, by just leaving out the jalapenos and switching to salt on the rim,
• Fruity Margarita - Swap out all or part of the agave for my Strawberry Syrup in the recipe. Or add a splash of fresh pineapple juice or grapefruit juice to introduce a tropical flavor. 
• Frozen Margarita - Blend the ingredients with ice cubes for a frozen drink that is perfect for warm days. And if you need a virgin version, try my Brazilian LImeade.
• Sparkling Version - Leave enough room in the margarita glass to top it off with club soda.

Which 1800 Tequila Should You Use?

Not all tequilas are created equal—and when it comes to 1800, you've got a few standout options. Each type adds a different depth and character to your margarita, depending on what kind of flavor profile you're after. Here's a quick breakdown to help you pick the perfect one:

1800 Silver (Blanco) Tequila

• Flavor: Clean, crisp, and peppery with subtle citrus and agave notes.
• Best For: Traditional margaritas and cocktail purists.
• Why Use It: This is the go-to for a classic margarita recipe. It's unaged and lets the bright lime juice and orange liqueur shine without interference.

1800 Reposado Tequila

• Flavor: Aged for at least 6 months in oak barrels, it's got hints of caramel, vanilla, and mild oak.
• Best For: Margaritas with a deeper, smoother finish.
• Why Use It: Reposado brings a richer flavor to the party. It gives your margarita a touch of warmth and depth—perfect if you're after something a little more complex.

1800 Añejo Tequila

• Flavor: Aged for at least 14 months, it's bold, smooth, and layered with spice notes, toasted oak, and dried fruit.
• Best For: Sipping or an upscale twist on the classic cocktail.
• Why Use It: Añejo is typically reserved for sipping, but if you're feeling fancy, it can create a rich, ultra-premium margarita with a bold, nuanced finish.

1800 Coconut Tequila

• Flavor: Infused with a natural, subtle coconut flavor, it's smooth, slightly sweet, and super tropical.
• Best For: An Island-inspired coconut margarita or frozen margaritas.
• Why Use It: It adds a natural, slightly sweet coconut flavor without overpowering the drink. It plays surprisingly well with lime juice and orange liqueur, creating a smooth, refreshing twist on the classic cocktail.

Ingredient Notes

Orange Liqueur - Adds a subtle orange flavor, balancing the tartness of the lime juice.

1800 Silver Tequila - A premium blanco tequila made from 100% blue agave, offering a smooth and clean base spirit for this cocktail.

Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice - Provides a vibrant, citrusy zing essential for an authentic margarita flavor.

Agave Nectar - A natural sweetener that enhances the tequila's agave notes without overpowering the drink.

*Please scroll down to the complete recipe card for specific ingredient amounts.

How To Make A Spicy Margarita

Step 1. Prepare the Glasses. Run a lime wedge around the rim of each cocktail glass or rocks glass. Dip the rim into a plate of coarse tajin or chili salt to create a salted rim. Set aside.

Step 2. Mix the Margarita. In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and agave nectar. Fill the shaker with ice cubes, cover, and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty.

Step 3. Serve. Fill the prepared glasses with fresh ice. Strain the margarita mixture into the glasses. Add some jalapeno slices or lime wheel to each glass for garnish.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

Margaritas are best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prepare the margarita mix (excluding ice) ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, shake the mixture with ice and pour into prepared glasses. For a frozen margarita, blend the ingredients with ice and serve immediately.

Natalie's Pro Tip

To make juicing your limes a breeze, I recommend this citrus juicer.

For measuring the tequila and agave for this margarita recipe, I like to use this jigger.