Two New Cocktails

I have always loved a proper margarita.  One made with reposado tequila and without that crappy sweet bar mix.  Just lime juice, tequila and a Gran Marnier float.  During our recent trip to Arizona, I discovered that the reason I hadn't been able to replicate the perfect margarita at home was because I wasn't adding agave.  Last night was fiesta Friday at our house, and I made margaritas.  I'm sharing the recipe here because frankly, for my taste, I've finally found the recipe for my favourite margarita.    Feel free to play around with the quantities until you achieve your perfect margarita.  (Salt rimming optional.)

The second cocktail here is a one which I recently discovered at The Venetian in Las Vegas.  One of the few things about Las Vegas that I will remember with fondness.  When I googled the recipe,  I learned that it originate in Venice (rather than at The Venetian).  It's a great change from sweet cocktails and I do love the fizzy.

Cheers!

My Favourite Margarita

1.5 oz tequila (preferably reposado)

1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice

2 tsp agave nectar

Grand Marnier to taste

Put lime juice and agave in a shaker and shake until blended.  Add tequila and enough ice to fill your glass.  Shake until the ice is starting to melt.  Pour into glass and float a little Gran Marnier on top.  

Venetian Spritz

3 oz prosecco

1.5 oz Aperol

1.5 oz soda water

Green olive for garnish

Stir liquid ingredients together gently, serve over ice and garnish with a green olive.