If tequila automatically makes you think of a fruity margarita or the infamous shooter-salt-lemon trio, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by this complex cocktail that also includes Grand Marnier and Cynar.
Unfortunately, tequila is often relegated to the end of parties or beach clubs, but it is a spirit with a characteristic taste that allows to create very interesting cocktails.
Proof is, this cocktail called Don’t Jinx It.
Created by Toronto bartender Jason McNeely, it is inspired by classic margaritas. But if you are expecting a sweet cocktail, think again!
With the addition of Cynar, an herbal liqueur, there is an herbal touch and a slight hint of bitterness that takes this cocktail to a whole new level.
Here’s how Jason McNeely describes this cocktail: “Starting with the richness of Grand Marnier, I wanted to create a cocktail without using any added sugar. The Espolon tequila and Cynar add subtle vegetal tones and depth, and the fresh lime juice brightens up the cocktail to balance the sweetness and dilute the ABV of the drink.”
Tequila, Grand Marnier and Cynar, a perfect trio
Margaritas are usually made with tequila, lemon juice and Triple Sec.
For this recipe, these are replaced by lime juice, Grand Marnier and Cynar for the herbal touch.
As for tequila, choose a good one, like Epsolon. Each bottle contains 100% hand-harvested Weber Blue Agave, one of the sweetest varieties of agave, which makes it pleasant to drink and gives it that great taste.
More recipes with tequila
Espolon Grand Margarita
Lime and Tequila Turkey Kabobs with a Cilantro Sauce
About Cynar
Cynar is an Italian bitter obtained from a mixture of artichoke leaves, aromatic plants and herbs infused in an alcohol.
It is sweet with a herbaceous touch and a little bitterness, reminiscent of vermouths.
As a matter of fact, you can also drink Cynar on ice, with a dash of sparkling water as an aperitif or use it in a negroni.
Recommended tools
Don't Jinx It : cocktail tequila, Grand Marnier et Cynar
Like a Margarita with more complexity and herbaceousness
Ingredients
- 0.75oz (22ml) Grand Marnier
- 0.75oz (22ml) Espolon Tequila Blanco
- 0.75oz (22ml) Cynar
- 0.75oz (22ml) Lime Juice
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a shaker tin.
- Add ice and shake hard until chilled.
- Strain into a cocktail coupe.