Almost forgot it was cinco de mayo. Perhaps I'll have one this evening.

which is the same except for equal parts. I have another friend who also prefers Grand Marnier but I stick with the Triple Sec. Either way that makes one fine drink!

also my new discovery - I always used a bit of simple syrup if the limes are too tart, but dark agave syrup takes it to a whole new level

I actually prefer a reposado to silver now as well.

I haven't tried it, although I do like reposado tequila as well.

Cointreau is triple sec and generally is the top shelf one used in really good margaritas. I just don't keep it on hand because Grand Marnier is what I use far more often for other things. It's not triple sec, it's an excellent substitute.

I did not know that. man, there is obviously a HUGH difference between that and the lesser brands. holy crap I would have never thought they were the same thing.

There's not really any standards when it comes to triple sec and there's a lot of substandard stuff on the market, which is not surprising considering most people and even most bars are simply using the cheapest ingredients they can get their hands on for margaritas. I like Coitreau, but I just don't do that many margaritas to justify keeping it around.

The other day at the liquor store I noticed they also make Coitreau Noir. I've never tried it, but from the looks of the bottle it appears as if it is more like Grand Marnier since it's made with cognac, which also means it's not triple sec.

http://www.metrolyrics.com/margaritaville-lyrics-jimmy-buffett.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=BGNpjDmiHvc

Nibblin' on sponge cake
Watchin' the sun bake
All of those tourists covered in oil
Strummin' my six-string
On my front porch swing
Smell those shrimp hey they're beginnin' to boil

Chorus:
Wastin' away again in Margaritaville
Searching for my lost shaker of salt
Some people claim that there's a woman to blame
But I know it's nobody's fault

I don't know the reason
I stayed here all season
Nothin' to show but this brand new tattoo
But it's a real beauty
A Mexican cutie
How it got here I haven't a clue

Chorus:
Wastin' away again in Margaritaville
Searchin' for my lost shaker of salt
Some people claim that there's a woman to blame
Now I think
Hell, it could be my fault

I blew out my flip-flop
Stepped on a pop-top
Cut my heel had to cruise on back home
But there's booze in the blender
And soon it will render
That frozen concoction that helps me hang on

Wastin' away again in Margaritaville
Searching for my lost shaker of salt
Some people claim that there's a woman to blame
But I know it's my own damn fault
Yes and some people claim that there's a woman to blame
And I know it's my own damn fault