The warm weather is here and Cinco de Mayo is right around the corner, so we’re introducing the Prickly Pear Margarita Spritz, because sometimes all you need is tequila, limes, and…prickly pears? That’s right, this vibrant-hued fruit might not be the first ingredient you think of when it comes to cocktails, but its beautiful color and subtle earthy flavor adds an extra special dimension to drinks. What are prickly pears? These spiky fruits grow on the prickly pear cactus, commonly found growing in dry areas and on rocky hillsides.
Inspired by the fruits that grow on our hillside behind the winery, we created this Prickly Pear Margarita Spritz, perfect for your Cinco de Mayo celebrations or anytime a burst of color and flavor is welcome! While the recipe below serves one, we recommend making enough for a crowd at your next gathering!
Prickly Pear Margarita Spritz
Made with Pops Sparkling Wine
Ingredients (Makes 1 Cocktail)
2 oz. blanco tequila (we used Cimarron)
3/4 oz. Cointreau or triple sec
3/4 oz. fresh lime juice
3 oz. Pops Sparkling Wine
1/2 oz. prickly pear syrup*
Optional garnish: Tajin rim
Instructions:
Combine the tequila, Cointreau, and lime in a shaker tin with ice and shake well. Strain into a wine glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling wine followed by the prickly pear syrup.
*For the Prickly Pear Syrup:
Slice 4-5 ripe prickly pears in half lengthwise, and scoop out the fruit with a spoon, being careful not to touch the outer skin. Combine the fruit with 1/2 cup agave nectar, honey, or sugar and 1/2 cup water in a bowl, and mash well to create a thick liquid. Strain into a Mason jar and refrigerate for up to two weeks.
If you don’t have access to prickly pears or don’t want to make your own syrup, we recommend Perfect Purée. You can also substitute fresh strawberries for the prickly pear for a strawberry spin on this drink!