Margarita: Debunking the Legend of Its Feminine Naming
The Margarita, one of the world's most beloved cocktails, is often hailed as the quintessential 'Mexican' drink. Yet, the true origin of this iconic drink and the reason behind its feminine name remain shrouded in mystery and various colorful stories. In this article, we'll explore the legends and facts behind the Margarita, dispelling some myths and uncovering lesser-known truths.
The Margarita's Mystery
Contrary to popular belief, the Margarita is not a Mexican invention. No one knows for certain who first mixed the drink or who it was named after. Different versions of the story exist, each adding its own spin to the cocktail's origin.
Origins and Myths
Galveston, Texas - According to one story, the Margarita originated in Galveston, Texas, a popular resort town before the advent of Las Vegas. During the summer season, famous performers like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Peggy Lee would frequent the area. It's said that during a performance break, Peggy Lee approached a bartender and mentioned her love for tequila but not drinking it neat. The bartender promptly created a concoction that she enjoyed so much she named it after herself: the Margarita. Though this story is widely beloved, its authenticity is questionable.
Official Claims
Carlos 'Danny' Herrera - Another claimant is Carlos 'Danny' Herrera, the owner of Rancho La Gloria, a restaurant in Tijuana. Herrera is said to have invented the Margarita in 1938 after a picky dancer expressed a dislike for drinking tequila straight. He mixed a concoction that she approved, and eventually, the Margarita became a popular drink. Herrera's obituary supports his claim, adding credibility to his story.
Margarita Sames - Dallas socialite Margarita Sames also claims credit for the Margarita's creation. She concocted a recipe for a group of friends while vacationing in Acapulco in 1948. Her friend Tommy Hilton, a member of the Hilton hotel chain, included the drink on the hotel menu. However, by 1945, tequila brand Jose Cuervo already claimed the drink as "Margarita: It's more than a girl's name," making Sames's claim less plausible.
The Daisy Connection
Some theories suggest that the Margarita may be just a variation of another cocktail, the Daisy. Both were named for flowers, with the Margarita being Spanish for "daisy." However, the Daisy was made with brandy, whereas the Margarita is traditionally made with tequila. The origin of the Daisy is also unclear, adding to the cocktail's mystique.
Frozen Margaritas and Modern Adaptations
The frozen Margarita, a staple of American spring breaks, has its own story. The first frozen Margarita machine was invented by Mariano Martinez from Dallas, Texas, in 1971. Though this machine has found its home in popular culture, it doesn't add to our understanding of the Margarita's real origins.
Regardless of its origins, the Margarita has evolved into a beloved cocktail. Whether enjoyed in a frozen, fruity version or stirred with top-shelf tequila, the Margarita continues to be a bar staple. The simplicity of its ingredients - tequila, Cointreau, and lime - makes it easy to create anywhere. As Steve Schneider, a head bartender at Employees Only, states, 'The Margarita evolved much like my career.' It can be as simple or as complex as you wish.
Conclusion
The Margarita's history is a testament to the creative and often whimsical nature of cocktail-making. While we may never know the definitive answer to who invented it or who it was named after, the stories surrounding the Margarita remain a vivid part of cocktail culture. It's a drink that continues to captivate and delight drinkers around the world, regardless of its true origins.