The Lagerita cocktail is a brilliant fusion of two beloved classics: the Margarita and a crisp lager beer.
It’s a refreshing drink that combines the boldness of tequila, the sweetness of Cointreau, and the tartness of fresh lime juice, topped off with the smooth, malty finish of Modelo Especial beer.
This beer-based cocktail is perfect for those looking to enjoy the best of both worlds, offering a unique taste experience that tastes great, and also quenches the thirst.
Here’s how to make a Lagerita beer cocktail, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or unwinding after a long day.
Lagerita Ingredients:
- Salt (optional): For rimming the glass, adding an extra layer of flavor that complements the cocktail’s ingredients.
- Tequila (2 ounces / 60 ml): The foundation of the drink, providing a robust and earthy base that energizes the palate.
- Cointreau (3/4 ounce / 22.5 ml): A premium orange liqueur that introduces a subtle sweetness and complexity.
- Lime Juice (1 ounce / 30 ml, freshly squeezed): Adds a bright, acidic contrast, enhancing the cocktail’s refreshing quality.
- Modelo Especial Beer (4 ounces / 120 ml): A smooth, light lager that brings a malty balance to the drink.
- Garnish: Lime Wheel, offering a final touch of citrus aroma and visual appeal.
Lagerita Recipe Guide:
- Prepare the Glass:
- If opting for a salted rim, start by spreading salt on a plate. Cut a notch in a lime wheel, run it around the rim of a highball glass, and then dip the rim in the salt to coat it evenly. Fill the glass with ice and set it aside.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add 60 ml (2 ounces) of tequila, 22.5 ml (3/4 ounce) of Cointreau, and 30 ml (1 ounce) of freshly squeezed lime juice. These ingredients form the vibrant base of the cocktail.
- Shake:
- Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously until well-chilled. This step is crucial for marrying the flavors together for a smooth, refreshing texture.
- Strain and Serve:
- Strain the mixture into the prepared highball glass. The act of straining ensures a smooth pour, free of ice chips, that maintains the integrity of the salted rim.
- Top with Beer:
- Gently top the cocktail with 120 ml (4 ounces) of Modelo Especial beer. Pouring the beer slowly prevents too much foam from forming, ensuring a perfect blend with the tequila base.
- Garnish:
- Garnish the drink with a lime wheel. This not only adds to the visual allure but also allows guests to adjust the acidity to their liking.
The Lagerita Cocktail – In Detail
The mix of a Margarita and a chilled Mexican lager, whether enjoyed on a sandy beach or in a lush backyard, is undeniably refreshing and flavorful. It might not be surprising to discover that blending these two into one beverage yields excellent results.
The Lagerita, conceived by bartender, distiller, and consultant Simon Ford (also the creator of Ford’s Gin), masterfully combines a classic Margarita with a light, crisp Mexican beer.
While beer might not be a staple ingredient in cocktails, it finds its role in Shandies, Micheladas, and various other cocktail recipes. It adds bubbles and a lightness, impacting the drink’s flavors less than club soda would, and in the case of a Margarita, it enhances the drink’s inherently refreshing qualities. Opting for a light lager is crucial; choices such as Modelo are ideal, though Corona, Pacifico, or Tecate are suitable alternatives.
Conversely, an ale like an IPA would introduce undue bitterness and maltiness, and darker beers such as stouts or porters could overpower the cocktail’s flavors and result in an unappealing appearance.
The choice of tequila for any Margarita is left to the preference of the creator or consumer.
A quality silver tequila is generally recommended, but there’s no need to opt for the most expensive option, particularly because the beer addition will modify the taste profile. However, it’s best to choose a tequila made from 100% agave, adhering to best practices for selecting this spirit.
While Cointreau remains the favored orange liqueur for many Margarita recipes, including Ford’s Lagerita, it’s feasible to substitute it with a less costly yet quality dry curaçao or another reputable orange liqueur. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to assess the sweetness level and adjust it with a bit of simple syrup if necessary to achieve the desired balance.
