Picador
The definitive blueprint for the Margarita, this 1937 London creation combines tequila, Cointreau, and lime juice in perfect harmony—the Margarita in its purest, unadorned form.
27%
ABV
easy
Difficulty
coupe
Glass
Flavor Profile
History & Heritage
“First documented in William J. "Billy" Tarling's 1937 *Café Royal Cocktail Book*, the Picador predates any printed Margarita recipe by over a decade, making it the definitive ancestor of the world's most popular tequila cocktail. Created by British bartenders experimenting with the exotic spirit from Mexico, it represents a tequila-based twist on the popular Sidecar structure. The name "Picador" aligns with the bullfighting theme of other tequila cocktails in the book, reflecting the romantic notion of Mexico in 1930s London cocktail culture.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a coupe or Nick & Nora glass in freezer for at least 15 minutes
Juice fresh limes using a hand press
Combine tequila, Cointreau, and lime juice in cocktail shaker
Fill shaker two-thirds full with high-quality, cold ice cubes
Shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds until shaker feels painfully cold
Double strain using Hawthorne strainer and fine-mesh strainer into chilled glass
Express oils from lime peel over surface, run around rim, and discard
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
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Bitter
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Strong
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Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use only 100% agave tequila - never mixto
Fresh lime juice is absolutely essential
Vigorous shaking ensures proper aeration and chilling
Serve immediately after shaking to maintain temperature
Double strain for silky smooth texture
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Picador.
Original 2:1:1
The historical ratio from the 1937 recipe - more tart and citrus-forward.
Changes
Lemon Picador
Using lemon juice as specified in the original recipe option.
Changes
Margarita
The famous descendant with salt rim and served over ice.
Changes
Toreador
Sister cocktail from the same book using apricot brandy instead of Cointreau.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Kamikaze
Vodka, Cointreau, and lime—shaken icy cold for a clean, citrusy classic served up or as a shooter.
Mexican Mule
Tequila bucks the Moscow Mule template—earthy agave, zesty lime and fiery ginger beer over ice in a frosty copper mug.
Tommy's Margarita
Tequila, lime, and agave nectar—a clean, modern take on the Margarita without orange liqueur.