To me, summer is margarita season.

My favorite classic margarita is the “Topolo,” which is served at Rick Bayless’ Topolobampo restaurant in Chicago. It is properly shaken and served in an appropriately small martini glass. I can’t stand trying to drink out of stemmed glasses that are too big for my mouth. I end up drenched in my drink instead of quenching my thirst!

When the bartender is perfectly on point, I can see tiny ice crystals in the shimmering liquid. Catching a few icy sips before the crystals melt is my perfect prescription to unwind. That first sip is always the best as the balance of ice cold and tart freshly squeezed lime juice, sweet orange liqueur and robust tequila join to make a refreshing and relaxing libation.