Merry companionship is practically guaranteed at the legendary Hussong's bar in Ensenada, especially after a couple of these tart (and very potent) margaritas. Made with fresh citrus juices and good blanco tequila, it’s a simple, classic recipe that will knock you on your can if you aren’t careful.

While salting the margarita rim has become commonplace, heavy salt will actually detract from the drink; try a tiny dash of salt on the ice cubes or in the bottom of the glass. I love the subtle trick of salting only the inside of the rim, so your lips never touch salt.

Sour mix is a bar staple, but most commercial bar stock is terrible stuff, full of flavorings and preservatives that shouldn’t cross your lips, much less sully a good drink. This homemade mix is well-balanced between tart and sweet, but leaning toward the tart, a logical counterpoint to tequila’s herbal kick. Fresh-squeezed juices are absolutely essential to the mix—don’t cut corners. (Remember, el flojo trabaja doble—the lazy person works twice as hard.) The work of juicing is a small price to pay for the most delicious drinks ever!