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Devil’s Margarita

a devil's margarita with a salt rim

The Devil’s Margarita is a spooky twist on the classic margarita, making it a perfect drink for Halloween. This cocktail blends tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup for the familiar base, but what sets it apart is the layer of red wine poured on top. The wine adds depth, richness, and a bold color that gives the drink a haunting appearance. The mix of citrus and dark fruit flavors creates a balance that is both refreshing and dramatic. With its striking look and surprising taste, the Devil’s Margarita is sure to impress guests at any Halloween celebration.

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Tasting Notes

The Devil’s Margarita is a striking twist on the classic margarita, featuring bold layers of citrus, agave, and red wine. The base of tequila and lime juice gives the drink its familiar bright, tangy character, while a touch of simple syrup balances the acidity. The float of red wine adds depth, fruitiness, and an unexpected richness that complements the crisp base. Each sip begins with the soft notes of the wine before giving way to the refreshing tartness of the margarita below. The result is a cocktail that’s both lively and smooth perfect for evenings that call for something dramatic.

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Equipment and Glassware

Creating the Devil’s Margarita requires minimal equipment. A cocktail shaker is used to chill and mix the tequila, lime juice, and syrup, ensuring the perfect texture and temperature. A strainer provides a clean pour, keeping ice shards out of the glass. A bar spoon helps gently layer the red wine without blending it too quickly. A jigger ensures accurate proportions for consistent flavor. For serving, a rocks glass or coupe glass works beautifully, depending on presentation preference. Keep your glass chilled in advance to maintain the cocktail’s refreshing coolness and highlight the vivid contrast of its layers.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ ounces of tequila
  • 1 ounce of lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • ½ ounce of simple syrup
  • ½ to ¾ ounce of red wine (something with a bit of body and fruitiness works best)

Instructions

  1. Begin by rimming your glass with salt, if desired. Do this by running a lime wedge around the edge and dipping it into salt.
  2. In your cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup with ice. Shake well until chilled.
  3. Strain the mixture into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
  4. Carefully pour the red wine over the back of a spoon to float it on top of the tequila mix.
  5. Garnish with a lime wheel, and enjoy.

Pro Tips

  • Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.
  • Shake vigorously to achieve proper chilling and dilution.
  • Choose a medium-bodied red wine with fruit notes (like Shiraz or Merlot).
  • Pour wine slowly over a spoon to maintain layering.
  • Rim with salt for a touch of contrast, or skip for a cleaner look.
  • Chill your glass beforehand to keep the cocktail colder longer.
  • Use clear ice cubes to enhance presentation.
  • Serve immediately to preserve the crisp separation of layers.
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When to Serve

The Devil’s Margarita is a perfect cocktail for Halloween gatherings, romantic evenings, or dinner parties where presentation matters. Its bold red wine float makes it an ideal drink for moody or dramatic occasions, while the balance of citrus and sweetness keeps it easy to sip. Serve it as a pre-dinner cocktail or centerpiece drink at themed events. Its flavor profile pairs beautifully with Mexican dishes, tapas, or charcuterie. Whether enjoyed at home or shared with friends, this cocktail offers a refreshing take on a classic, with a flair that’s sure to impress.

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a devil's margarita with a salt rim

Devil’s Margarita

Prep Time: 4 minutes
5 from 2 votes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: gothic cocktails, halloween cocktails, Halloween tequila cocktails, spooky cocktails, wine cocktails
Servings: 1
Author: Paul Kushner

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ ounces of tequila
  • 1 ounce of lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • ½ ounce of simple syrup
  • ½ to ¾ ounce of red wine (something with a bit of body and fruitiness works best) but feel free to use your favorite!

Instructions

  • Begin by rimming your glass with salt, if desired. Do this by running a lime wedge around the edge and dipping it into salt.
  • In your cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup with ice. Shake well until chilled.
  • Strain the mixture into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
  • Carefully pour the red wine over the back of a spoon to float it on top of the tequila mix.
  • Garnish with a lime wheel, and enjoy.

Notes

Pro Tips

  • Choose a juicy, fruit-forward red wine like Grenache or Malbec for the smoothest blend.
  • For a sweeter cocktail, add a touch more simple syrup or use a sweeter wine such as Shiraz.
  • Pour the wine slowly over the spoon to create a clean, distinct layer.
Tried this recipe?Leave a comment and let us know how it was!
Devil’s Margarita
Please drink responsibly, be fully accountable with your alcohol consumption, and show others respect.
5 from 2 votes (2 ratings without comment)

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Paul Kushner

Written by Paul Kushner

Founder and CEO of MyBartender. Graduated from Penn State University. He always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. His restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time he turned 17 he was serving tables, and by 19 he was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.

In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, Paul opened his first restaurant/bar. In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

Follow them on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, Google Guide and MuckRack.

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