How To Make An Organic Tommy’s Margarita With Hermosa Organic Tequila Blanco
Crafting the Perfect Organic Tommy’s Margarita at Home
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. Hermosa Organic Tequila Blanco (USDA Certified Organic 100% Agave Tequila)
- 1 oz. Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice from USDA Certified Organic Limes
- 0.5 oz. USDA Certified Organic Agave Nectar
- Ice
- Sea Salt For Rimming The Glass (optional)
- USDA Certified Organic Lime cut into a Wedge for Garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Glass:
- For a salted rim, rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass.
- Dip the rim into a plate of sea salt.
- Set the glass aside.
Mix the Drink:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 ounces of Hermosa Organic Tequila Blanco, 1 ounce of Organic Agave Nectar, and 1 ounce of freshly squeezed Organic Lime Juice.
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
Shake Well:
- Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This step chills the mixture and ensures all the ingredients are well combined.
Serve:
- Fill your prepared glass with ice.
- Strain the mixture from the shaker into the glass, allowing the liquid to pour over the ice.
Garnish:
- Garnish with a freshly cut Organic Lime Wedge on the rim of the glass.
Tips:
- USDA Certified Organic Tequila: Use high-quality certified organic 100% agave Hermosa Organic Tequila. This ensures a cleaner, crisper agave and lime taste with fewer impurities.
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use freshly squeezed USDA Certified Organic lime juice for the best flavor and health benefits.
- Agave Nectar: USDA Certified Organic Agave Nectar is a healthier alternative to processed sugars and syrups, providing a natural sweetness without the glycemic spike.
The History of Tommy’s Margarita: An Iconic Twist on a Classic Margarita Cocktail
Introduction
The margarita is one of the world’s most beloved cocktails, enjoyed by millions for its refreshing combination of tequila, lime, and sweetness. Among the various renditions of this classic drink, Tommy’s Margarita stands out as a unique and innovative twist that has captured the hearts of cocktail enthusiasts around the globe. This article delves into the history of Tommy’s Margarita, exploring its origins, the people behind its creation, and its enduring legacy in the world of mixology.
The Birth of the Margarita
Before diving into Tommy’s Margarita, it’s essential to understand the origins of the classic margarita. The margarita’s roots can be traced back to the early 20th century, with multiple theories about its invention. One popular story suggests that it was created by bartender Carlos “Danny” Herrera in Tijuana, Mexico, in the late 1930s. Another account credits socialite Margarita Sames, who reportedly concocted the drink at her Acapulco vacation home in 1948. Despite the varying origin stories, the margarita quickly gained popularity and became a staple in bars worldwide.
The Origins of Tommy’s Margarita
Tommy’s Margarita, a simplified yet flavorful variation of the classic margarita, was born in the heart of San Francisco. The drink is named after Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant, a family-owned establishment located in the Richmond District of San Francisco. The restaurant, founded by Tommy Bermejo in 1965, quickly became known for its warm atmosphere, authentic Mexican cuisine, and an impressive selection of tequilas.
Julio Bermejo: The Visionary Behind Tommy’s Margarita
The true genius behind Tommy’s Margarita is Julio Bermejo, Tommy Bermejo’s son. Julio grew up in the family restaurant, developing a deep appreciation for Mexican culture and cuisine. As he took on more responsibilities at the restaurant, he became increasingly passionate about tequila, recognizing its potential beyond the cheap, mass-produced versions that were prevalent in the United States at the time. Julio embarked on a mission to educate himself and others about the nuances of high-quality, 100% agave tequila. His dedication led him to travel extensively through Mexico, visiting distilleries and learning about the tequila-making process. This knowledge and passion for tequila would eventually inspire the creation of Tommy’s Margarita.
The Creation of Tommy’s Margarita
In the early 1990s, Julio Bermejo decided to create a margarita that would highlight the purity and complexity of 100% agave tequila. The traditional margarita recipe called for tequila, triple sec, and lime juice, but Julio felt that the triple sec, an orange-flavored liqueur, masked the true flavors of the tequila. He opted to simplify the recipe, removing the triple sec and replacing it with agave nectar, a natural sweetener derived from the same plant as tequila. The resulting cocktail, known as Tommy’s Margarita, consists of just three ingredients: 100% agave tequila, freshly squeezed lime juice, and agave nectar. This simple yet elegant combination allows the quality of the tequila to shine through, creating a drink that is both refreshing and complex.
The Rise to Fame
Tommy’s Margarita quickly gained a loyal following at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant, thanks to its unique flavor profile and Julio’s expertise in tequila. Word of the innovative cocktail spread, attracting the attention of bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts worldwide. As the cocktail renaissance of the late 20th and early 21st centuries took hold, Tommy’s Margarita became a symbol of the movement’s emphasis on quality ingredients and craftsmanship. Julio Bermejo’s tireless efforts to promote tequila and Tommy’s Margarita did not go unnoticed. In 2003, he was named the U.S. Ambassador of Tequila by the Mexican government, a testament to his significant contributions to the industry. Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant also gained international recognition, becoming a pilgrimage site for tequila aficionados.
The Ingredients: Quality Matters (We like the USDA Certified Organic Version)
One of the key factors that set Tommy’s Margarita apart is the emphasis on using high-quality ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at each component:
- 100% Agave Tequila: Julio Bermejo’s dedication to 100% agave tequila is at the heart of Tommy’s Margarita. Unlike mixto tequila, which contains a mix of agave and other sugars, 100% agave tequila is made entirely from the blue agave plant. This results in a purer, more complex flavor profile that shines in the cocktail. Julio’s extensive knowledge of tequila allowed him to curate a selection of premium tequilas at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant, ensuring that every Tommy’s Margarita was made with the best possible spirit.
- Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is a crucial ingredient in any margarita, providing the bright, tangy acidity that balances the sweetness of the other components. At Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant, limes are juiced daily to ensure maximum freshness and flavor. This commitment to using fresh ingredients elevates Tommy’s Margarita above many other versions that rely on pre-packaged lime juice or sour mix.
- Agave Nectar: Agave nectar, a natural sweetener derived from the agave plant, is the final component of Tommy’s Margarita. Its mild, honey-like flavor complements the tequila without overpowering it, allowing the spirit’s nuances to come through. Agave nectar is also lower on the glycemic index than traditional sweeteners, making it a popular choice for those looking for a healthier alternative.
The Impact on the Cocktail World
Tommy’s Margarita has had a profound impact on the cocktail world, influencing bartenders and mixologists to rethink the traditional margarita recipe and experiment with new ingredients and techniques. Its simplicity and emphasis on quality ingredients have inspired a generation of cocktail enthusiasts to prioritize craftsmanship and authenticity in their creations. The cocktail’s popularity has also contributed to a broader appreciation for tequila, helping to elevate the spirit’s reputation and increase demand for high-quality, 100% agave tequilas. This shift in consumer preferences has led to a renaissance in the tequila industry, with more distilleries producing premium products and a greater variety of tequilas available on the market.
Tommy’s Margarita in Popular Culture
Over the years, Tommy’s Margarita has made its way into popular culture, appearing in numerous cocktail books, articles, and television shows. Its influence can be seen in the menus of bars and restaurants worldwide, where variations of the cocktail are often featured. The drink’s reputation as a symbol of quality and authenticity has made it a favorite among discerning drinkers and a benchmark for bartenders looking to perfect their margarita-making skills.
Visiting Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant
For those who want to experience the original Tommy’s Margarita, a visit to Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant in San Francisco is a must. The restaurant, located at 5929 Geary Boulevard, retains its cozy, family-friendly atmosphere and continues to serve up delicious Mexican cuisine alongside its famous margaritas. Visitors to Tommy’s can expect a warm welcome from the Bermejo family and a chance to explore an extensive tequila menu curated by Julio Bermejo himself. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and hospitality has made it a beloved institution in the Richmond District and a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts.
The Legacy of Tommy’s Margarita
The legacy of Tommy’s Margarita extends beyond the cocktail itself. Julio Bermejo’s dedication to promoting tequila and educating others about the spirit has left a lasting impact on the industry. His efforts have helped to raise the profile of 100% agave tequila and encourage a greater appreciation for its complexity and versatility. In addition to his work at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant, Julio has been involved in numerous tequila-related initiatives, including judging competitions, hosting educational events, and consulting for bars and restaurants. His influence can be seen in the growing number of tequila-focused establishments and the increasing popularity of tequila-based cocktails around the world.
Conclusion
Tommy’s Margarita is more than just a cocktail; it is a testament to the power of passion, quality, and authenticity. Julio Bermejo’s innovative approach to the margarita recipe has created a drink that highlights the true flavors of 100% agave tequila and fresh, natural ingredients. As a result, Tommy’s Margarita has become an enduring symbol of the cocktail renaissance and a beloved favorite among drinkers worldwide. Whether enjoyed at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant or recreated at home, Tommy’s Margarita continues to inspire and delight, embodying the spirit of craftsmanship and excellence in mixology.