Crafthouse Spicy Marg

Crafthouse Spicy Marg is a ready-to-drink spicy margarita from Esplanda, sold as a finished cocktail that needs no mixing. The details supplied don't give an ABV, a tequila source or a pepper variety, so check the label for those. Ready-to-drink spicy margaritas in this style usually pair a tequila base with lime and a sweetener, then finish with chili heat. Expect bright citrus up front, a rounded agave-style sweetness in the middle, and a warm, lingering heat at the back of the palate instead of a sharp burn. Serve it very cold. Chill the container for several hours, or serve it over fresh ice. Cold dulls the sweetness and keeps the lime tasting crisp, and the heat usually feels more pronounced as the drink warms. Shake or gently invert the container before opening, since sugar and citrus components in pre-mixed cocktails can settle. For glassware, a rocks glass or a short tumbler over ice suits a drink like this. A stemless margarita glass also works if you want the classic look. A rim of coarse salt, or salt blended with chili powder or Tajín, reinforces the heat and counters the sweetness. A lime wheel or a thin slice of fresh jalapeño works as a garnish. If the heat is more than you want, pour it over extra ice and let it dilute slightly. On the food side, spicy margaritas are usually served with dishes that can stand up to the heat. Good matches include tacos al pastor, shrimp ceviche, carnitas, guacamole with crisp tortilla chips, and grilled fish with a squeeze of lime. Salty, fatty and acidic foods tend to smooth the chili edge. Very sweet desserts tend to clash with it.