History of Margarita: Who Invented it?
The Margarita is one of the most beloved cocktails globally, and it’s easy to see why. The combination of tequila, lime juice, and triple sec in the Classic Margarita creates a drink full of depth and character.
Over the years, the Margarita has evolved into numerous variations. From frozen Margaritas to fruity options like the Strawberry Margarita or Pineapple Margarita, there is a version for every taste. Even our unique Margarita Recipe showcases how versatile this drink can be. Originating in Mexico, the Margarita has travelled far and wide, inspiring countless adaptations around the world.
Who invented the Margarita?
The Margarita cocktail is a classic recipe that has been enjoyed since the early 20th century. While the exact date and creator remain topics of debate, one theory stands out as the most credible:
The most recognised story traces the Margarita back to Jalisco, Mexico, where it is said to have been created by Carlos “Danny” Herrera. The cocktail was reportedly born from an experiment for actress Marjorie King, who was allergic to many spirits except tequila. To accommodate her, Carlos crafted a drink using tequila, Cointreau, and fresh lime juice, giving rise to the iconic Margarita.
Other Origins of the Margarita Drink
Another popular version of the Margarita’s origin places its creation at Cantina Hussong in Ensenada, Mexico, in 1941.
According to this story, Carlos Orozco was experimenting with a new cocktail when Margarita Henkel, the daughter of Germany’s ambassador to Mexico, walked into the cantina. In her honour, he named the drink Margarita, a name that would go on to achieve worldwide fame.
More Origins of the Margarita
There are several other accounts regarding the Margarita’s creation:
- One version suggests it was invented in El Paso, Juarez, on 4 July 1942 by Francisco Morales. A woman reportedly asked him to make a drink he wasn’t familiar with, and, improvising, he created what we now know as the Margarita.
- Another story credits Danny Negrete, the manager of the Garci-Crespo Hotel. According to this tale, he crafted the drink for his girlfriend, who loved salt, designing a cocktail that would perfectly complement her preference.
Olmeca Altos to Honor the History of the Margarita Cocktail
Whatever the case may be, the Margarita has become one of the most popular drinks on earth. And this is especially true in Mexico, where it is considered an icon of national pride and heritage.
In order to honor this historic drink and its place in Mexican culture, we have created Olmeca Altos Plata Tequila—a premium quality tequila made from 100% blue agave grown in Jalisco state (the heartland of tequila production). And not only that: we have also created Altos Margarita—a unique version of this cocktail.
