Austin, Texas, is known for many things, and among them is the iconic Mexican Martini. If you’ve ever visited Austin, you’ve likely encountered this popular drink – and for good reason. It’s a refreshingly potent and flavorful cocktail that captures the spirit of Texas. Essentially, the Mexican Martini is a sophisticated margarita served on the rocks, distinguished by a splash of salty, savory olive brine and a notable absence of added sugar. This results in a spirit-forward drink that’s both invigorating and utterly delicious.
Mexican Martini
During my time living in Austin, the Mexican Martini was my go-to drink. Perla’s, with its lively patio atmosphere, was my favorite spot to savor these cocktails. Happy hour there, complete with appetizers and a perfectly mixed Mexican Martini, remains etched in my fondest memories of sunny Texas afternoons. The joy of patio sipping under the warm Texas sun is intrinsically linked to this unforgettable drink.
The beauty of the Mexican Martini lies in its subtle variations. Depending on where you order one in Austin, you might encounter different flavor profiles. Some versions lean towards the sweeter side, rumored to be lightly sweetened with Sprite, reminiscent of those served at Cedar Door and Trudy’s – classic Austin institutions for Mexican Martinis. While these sweeter iterations are enjoyable and represent the original renditions, my personal preference, and the inspiration for this recipe, is a drier, more margarita-like martini with a pronounced olive brine twist. This version emphasizes the quality of the tequila and the freshness of the ingredients.
Mexican Martini
One of the unique and charming aspects of ordering a Mexican Martini in Austin is the presentation. Typically, it arrives at your table with a shaker alongside the filled glass. This Austin tradition implies a generous serving – technically enough for two drinks, though perfectly acceptable to enjoy it all yourself! The shaker allows you to replenish your glass, ensuring your martini stays perfectly chilled. Whether you choose to share or indulge solo is entirely up to you.
Beyond the decision of sharing, the key to crafting an exceptional Mexican Martini, as I’ve learned through enjoyable experimentation, lies in the careful selection of ingredients. Here are my essential guidelines for choosing the best components to elevate your Mexican Martini to perfection:
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Premium Tequila is Essential: When it comes to a Mexican Martini, skimping on tequila is not an option. Unlike a classic margarita where the sweetness and other flavors can mask a less-than-stellar tequila, the Mexican Martini puts the tequila front and center. I wholeheartedly recommend using a high-quality Reposado tequila. Reposado tequilas are aged in oak barrels, which imparts a smoothness, a subtle oaky flavor, and a beautiful light golden hue. For a truly Texan touch, I am a fan of Flecha Azul Reposado Tequila. Hailing from Dallas, Texas, this tequila boasts a smooth, medium-bodied character with delightful oak and floral notes – simply perfect for a Mexican Martini.
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Fresh Lime and Orange Juice are Non-Negotiable: Step away from the bottled lime juice! Freshly squeezed lime juice is absolutely crucial for a vibrant and authentic Mexican Martini. Trust me on this – using pre-packaged lime juice will compromise the drink’s fresh, zesty flavor. Similarly, while a touch of orange juice is essential, moderation is key. Too much orange juice can overpower the delicate balance of the martini and make it taste overwhelmingly fruity. Freshly squeezed orange juice, used sparingly, adds just the right hint of citrus complexity.
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Martini Olives are Key: Don’t underestimate the importance of using specifically labeled “Martini Olives”. While pimento-stuffed olives might seem interchangeable, Martini Olives possess a distinct flavor profile that significantly enhances the final cocktail. Their unique brine contributes to the signature savory edge of the Mexican Martini. Fortunately, Martini Olives are readily available in the olive and pickle sections of most grocery and liquor stores.
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Serve in Proper Glassware: While it might seem trivial, serving your Mexican Martini in a coupe or martini glass truly elevates the experience. There’s something about the classic shape and elegance of these glasses that complements the sophistication of the drink. I firmly believe it simply tastes better when served in the right glassware!
With these essential tips in mind, you’re well on your way to crafting a truly exceptional Mexican Martini. This recipe is designed to deliver a perfectly balanced and authentic taste of Austin’s favorite cocktail. So, prepare yourself a generous pour, unwind, and savor the delightful flavors of this Texan classic!
Mexican Martini
If you’re a tequila cocktail enthusiast, be sure to explore these other fantastic recipes: Clayton’s Margarita and Ranch Water.
To make this recipe, you will need a cocktail shaker and a double jigger for precise measurements.
Mexican Martini
Mexican Martini Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients:
- 3 ounces Reposado Tequila (or 2 “big jiggers”)
- 1.5 ounces Cointreau (or 1 “big jigger”)
- 1.5 ounces fresh lime juice (or 1 “big jigger”)
- 0.5 ounce martini olive brine (from the jar) (about 1/2 “small jigger”)
- 0.3 ounces fresh orange juice (a little less than 1/2 “small jigger”)
- Salt, for rimming (optional)
- Lime wedges, for garnish
- Martini olives, for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add tequila, Cointreau, lime juice, olive brine, and orange juice to the shaker.
- Securely close the shaker and shake vigorously until well-chilled.
- If desired, salt half the rim of two martini or coupe glasses.
- Strain and pour the Mexican Martini into the prepared glasses.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and a few martini olives on a cocktail pick.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Recipe Notes:
- Jigger sizes can vary, so using ounce measurements is recommended for accuracy. A “big jigger” in this recipe is approximately 1.5 ounces, and a “small jigger” is about 1 ounce. Adjust measurements to your preference.
- For a sweeter martini, you can add a splash of Sprite or simple syrup, but this recipe aims for a drier, more traditional Austin style.
- Feel free to experiment with different Reposado tequilas to find your favorite flavor profile in this Mexican Martini Recipe.
- Always use fresh-squeezed lime and orange juice for the best taste.
Enjoy making and savoring your own authentic Mexican Martini at home!
