Spring is officially here, which means it’s time to kick back and master the art of the warm-weather cocktail. We’re officially declaring this season the season of the Margarita – classic, blended, or on the rocks. The choice is yours. After all, whichever way its served, the Margarita (*cough* the #1 NYC Cocktail *cough*) is arguably the most enjoyable cocktail ever invented.

To celebrate the iconic beverage, we’re raising a glass to the return of simple pleasures: easy, yet elevated cocktails that are meant to be shared amongst friends and family. And as we all begin to gather again, one-of-a-kind Margaritas can definitely help set the mood. Our protip? No matter which recipe you follow, Grand Marnier – a premium Cognac-based orange liqueur in that iconic bottle – is a game-changing ingredient.

Grand Marnier

It introduces a touch of luxury, makes libations a tad more interesting, and adds complexity (because the Cognac base offers much more flavor than ordinary triple sec). All that is thanks to its unique blend of 51 percent cognac and 49 percent exotic bitter orange. It’s a recipe that works – after all, the elegant French liqueur has remained unchanged since its creation in 1880.

Of course, there are enough variations on the classic cocktail to last a lifetime, but we’re taking the OG Margarita to the next level with these three easy-to-follow, make-at-home recipes that are guaranteed to impress. With just a few simple ingredients (plus Grand Marnier, of course), you’ll be sipping on your elevated Margaritas in no time.

Bodega Margarita, Classic Grand Margarita, Platinum Margarita

Classic Grand Margarita (1 Serving)

Tasting notes: Tart, agave, orange, light

Description: This crowd-pleasing cocktail needs no introduction and can be served straight up or on the rocks.

Ingredients: 30ml Grand Marnier, 45ml Espolon Blanco, 23ml fresh lime juice, 15ml agave syrup

What to do: Shake with ice and strain into a rocks glass with a lime wedge and Maldon Salt Rim.

Platinum Margarita (Blended – 4 Servings)

Tasting notes: Tart, agave, floral, rich

Description: Bringing back blended drinks, this easy-to-make Margarita variation will impress friends and family when you serve up a drink that looks and tastes like a cocktail-bar-quality offering. Who wouldn’t want a frothy purple Margarita?

Ingredients: 90ml Grand Marnier, 240ml Malva Flower Tequila, 120ml fresh lime juice, 40g sugar, 60ml liquid egg white, 12 ice cubes

What to do: Mix, then garnish with Malva petals and pink salt rim.

Bodega Margarita (1 Serving)

Tasting notes: Tart, herbal, orange, light

Description: A classic Margarita at heart with a naturopathic element added from the marshmallow root. An herbal and immune-boosting Margarita.

Ingredients: 30ml Grand Marnier, 30ml Espolon Blanco, 15ml marshmallow root tincture, 23ml fresh lime juice, 15ml rich syrup

What to do: Mix, then garnish with a dehydrated lime wheel and salt rim.

Learn more about Grand Marnier at grandmarnier.com.