08/08/2026
What does a 'wine-o' look for in a margarita? Like wine, it's all about balance. No one element should stand out too much or overpower the others. Santa Fe has a margarita trail, but I created my own.
The Smoked Sage Margarita at Secreto Bar inside of the Hotel St. Francis, Santa Fe may be the best margarita of my life! That añejo with smoky sage and a hickory-salt rim was 🔥!
A close second is the Shed Gold Margarita at The Shed of Santa Fe restaurant which included reposado with Torres Orange Liqueur. The "orange-ness" sorta does what Triple Sec, Cointreau, etc does in a margarita, but in an elevated way. Chef's kiss!
The 'Love Spell' (does this count as a margarita?) at Joe's Tequila Bar that featured añejo, blanc vermouth, elderflower, and absinthe wash was such a tasty departure from the classic. And their 'Paul's Cadillac' margarita with reposado, grand marnier, lime, agave was such a well-made, well-balanced version of the classic.
Leaving margarita land and moving over into its cousin's Paloma territory, the Smoky Blackberry Paloma at The Rooftop at the Plaza inside the Drury was such a refreshing sipper to watch the sun set. Blanco along with Mezcal, blackberry, lime sour, sparkling grapefruit and a black salt rim gave a little sweetness.
My least favorite, which came highly recommend from some folks, was the Salty Senorita from Coyote Cafe Rooftop Cantina. This is their patented, signature margarita which features a salted lime foam. I didn't love the texture of the foam and honestly, the tequila was overwhelming. If you like 'em strong, this may be your drink. But it's a cool rooftop spot with great views. And the empanadas were delish!
