Cherry Aperol Margarita

The Cherry Aperol Margarita is a bold, fruity twist on a classic marg. Tequila forms the base, while Aperol adds a citrusy, slightly bitter edge that plays well with the rich sweetness of cherry syrup. Lime juice keeps it tart and bright, and Cointreau ties everything together with a smooth orange note. Rimmed with sugar and served with a lime wheel, it’s colorful, balanced, and refreshing perfect for happy hour or a warm afternoon.

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Tasting Notes

This Cherry Aperol Margarita has a nice mix of tart, bitter, and sweet. The tequila brings warmth, while Aperol adds a slight orange bitterness that balances out the cherry syrup. Lime juice brightens everything up, keeping the drink crisp and refreshing. Cointreau helps smooth out the edges with a little orange flavor. You’ll taste the cherry first, followed by the citrus and a light herbal finish from the Aperol. It’s not overly sweet and has a cool, layered feel. The sugar rim adds a little crunch and a touch of sweetness with each sip.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a shaker, jigger, fine strainer, and a rocks or coupe glass. A shaker is key to mix the citrus, syrup, and spirits properly while chilling them quickly. Use a fine strainer when pouring to keep out pulp or ice shards. A plate with sugar and a lime wedge will help rim the glass neatly. A coupe glass looks nice for presentation, while a rocks glass gives it a more laid-back feel. Either works just make sure it’s chilled before serving.

Ingredients

• 2 oz tequila
• 0.75 oz Aperol
• 0.75 oz lime juice
• 0.5 oz cherry syrup
• 0.5 oz Cointreau
• Sugar, for rimming
• Lime wheel and cherry, for garnish

Instructions

• Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and dip into sugar. Set aside.
• Add tequila, Aperol, lime juice, cherry syrup, and Cointreau to a shaker filled with ice.
• Shake well for about 10–12 seconds.
• Double strain into your prepared glass.
• Garnish with a lime wheel and a cherry.

Pro Tips

• Use high-quality tequila (blanco or reposado both work)
• Fresh lime juice makes a big difference
• Chill your glass ahead of time
• Try a Luxardo cherry syrup for deeper flavor
• Adjust cherry syrup to taste some prefer a bit more
• For more bitterness, bump up Aperol slightly
• Double straining = smoother finish

When to Serve

This Cherry Aperol Margarita cocktail is perfect for late afternoon or happy hour. The balance of sweet and bitter makes it easy to enjoy on a patio, at brunch, or as a pre-dinner drink. Its color and flavor also make it a fun pick for spring or summer get-togethers. Serve when you want something a little more interesting than a classic margarita.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Tequila:

• Espolòn Blanco
• Olmeca Altos
• Herradura Silver

Cointreau Alternatives:

• Grand Marnier
• Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao

Aperol:

• Aperol (no real substitute for flavor)

Similar Cocktails

• Grapefruit Tequila Sour
• Tequila Aperol Spritz
• Spicy Green Margarita
• Spicy Coconut Margarita
• Sriracha Margarita