Italian Cocktails
Italian Margarita
The short answer
The Italian Margarita is a nutty, citrus-forward twist on the classic, swapping orange liqueur for amaretto. This change lends a smooth almond sweetness that complements the sharp tequila and tart lime juice, creating a unique fusion.
- Style
- Tequila and amaretto, 18% ABV
- Glass
- Rocks glass
- Strength
- Approximately 18%
Where it comes from
While the Margarita has Mexican roots, this variation became widely known in American chain restaurants. It represents a popular style of fusion cocktail that incorporates Italy's famous almond-flavored liqueur into a classic template.
What you need
- 45 ml (1.5 oz) Tequila
- 22.5 ml (0.75 oz) Amaretto
- 30 ml (1 oz) Fresh lime juice
- Coarse salt for the rim
- Lime wheel for garnish
How Larry builds it
- 01
Rim the Glass. Run a lime wedge around the rim of a rocks glass and dip it into a plate of coarse salt.
- 02
Shake. Combine tequila, amaretto, and fresh lime juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until well-chilled.
- 03
Strain. Strain the mixture into the prepared rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Larry’s rule: Restaurant-chain famous. Larry swaps triple sec for amaretto and calls it fusion.
Variations worth making
Reposado Italian Margarita
Use a reposado tequila, whose light oak and vanilla notes provide a richer backbone that complements the almond flavor of the amaretto.
Frozen Italian Margarita
Blend all ingredients with a cup of ice for a slushy texture. For extra flavor, serve with a small float of amaretto on top.
Questions people ask
Does this drink contain orange liqueur?
No, the defining characteristic of an Italian Margarita is the replacement of orange liqueur (like triple sec) with amaretto for its distinct almond flavor.
Which tequila is best to use?
A 100% agave blanco tequila provides a clean, bright flavor. For a richer taste, a reposado tequila pairs exceptionally well with the nuttiness of amaretto.
Is it sweeter than a regular Margarita?
It can be. Amaretto often has a higher sugar content than many dry orange liqueurs, resulting in a slightly sweeter, smoother finish.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Freshly squeezed lime juice is crucial for balancing the sweetness of the amaretto and providing the bright acidity the cocktail needs.
What to eat with it
Mix it like Larry
The shakers, jiggers and glasses behind this drink.
Mixology 15-Piece Bartender Kit with StandView on Amazon →
BARE BARREL 14-Piece Cocktail Shaker SetView on Amazon →
KITESSENSU Cocktail Shaker Set with StandView on Amazon →
Japanese-Style Double Jiggers, 2-PackView on Amazon →
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Order Italian Margarita with sausage and peppers at the spots on Larry’s lists:
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