Ask the Bar Guru

Dear Bar Guru,

Hi Bar Guru, how do you make a margarita?

A Margarita should be stiff and not overly sweet. A proper Margarita will allow the taste of the tequila, lime and orange through. If you are used to frozen concoctions, this will be very different - and delicious.

INGREDIENTS

· Good quality Tequila (Sauza Hornitos is a good option)

· Lime juice (fresh squeezed is best)

· Orange liqueur like triple sec (Grand Marnier is highly recommended, though)

· Coarse Kosher salt

· Lime for garnish (don't use the ones you juiced - that's just tacky)

 

Measure the liquids volumetrically. You will find it easiest to remember the ratio of the drink parts rather than the amounts in a recipe. You can then make big or small batches (a single drink or enough for a party!) by scaling the measurement used. One "part" is typically one fluid ounce, but can also be one "teaspoon" or one "pint".

Put plenty of ice in a shaker.

Add two parts Tequila, one part lime juice, and one part triple sec. For a really tasty margarita, substitute Grand Marnier for the triple sec. Shake vigorously (don't skimp on the shaking, since the melted ice cuts the strength, sweetness, and sourness of the drink).

Take a slice of lime or wet a clean finger with lime juice and run it around the rim of the glass. Make sure to get the outer edge of the glass - that is where you want the salt to stick.

Pour some coarse salt onto a plate, flip the glass with the wet lime juice rim upside down, and swirl it in the salt on the plate.

Fill the glasses with some ice and the ice cold Margarita.

Top with a lime slice and enjoy!

 

Dear Bar Guru,

I heard that you are not supposed to chill white wine until an hour before you plan on serving.  Is this accurate?

What you want to control is temperature. Make sure they are not to cold because of chilling for a long period of time. Sparkling wines and lighter, unoaked whites is not an issue. Outdoor summer parties may not be an issue as well.

Hope it helps. Your own judgment based on experience or common sense can indicate you what is best at a particular moment. Often is impossible to generalize.

 

 

Dear Bar Guru,

How many glasses can be served from a bottle of wine?

Typically, four and a half servings of wine can be served from a 750 ml bottle. 

Enjoy!!

 

Dear Guru,

I am having a party next weekend and I was wondering what types of liquor I should have on hand for my guests?

I recommend to have tequila, gin, whiskey, rum and certainly vodka for your party with your mixers.  I also recommend to go to page X on this site to find your nearest Jewel-Osco where you can get assistance from one of our Wine and Spirit Consultants.  They’ll give you plenty of tips and point you in the right direction!! 

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