
Why we love this grapefruit aperol margarita
This margarita is one of my favorites. It’s refreshing and fun, and I love the way the grapefruit pairs with the Aperol and creates a pretty pink drink. If you’re up to trying something new, I really recommend it, especially if you like grapefruit.
And, if you like this grapefruit based recipe, you have to try this basil grapefruit martini or the tiki classic zombie cocktail. Swifties also love this French blonde cocktail which has been going crazy on social lately.
Searching for more Aperol recipes? The Aperol sour and Aperol spritz are both classic cocktails you will probably love, but you should also try modern classic Naked and Famous cocktail.

Ingredients & substitutions
- Aperol – Aperol adds a unique, bittersweet citrus flavor that enhances the refreshing taste that pairs really well with grapefruit.
- Tequila – I used blanco tequila for this recipe, but feel free to use whatever tequila you prefer.
- Grapefruit juice – Fresh squeezed citrus is the best, but I think for a cocktail like this, you could use store-bought juice (preferably not from concentrate).
- Lime juice – Again, I always recommend fresh squeezed lime juice for cocktails.
- Agave nectar – This is added to sweeten and balance the cocktail, if you prefer to use a simple syrup or honey syrup they would both swap easily for the agave nectar.
Making changes to a recipe can result in recipe failure. Any substitutions listed below are simple changes that I believe will work in this recipe, but results are not guaranteed.
The following is a detailed overview of the recipe steps with added tips and tricks for recipe success. For a simplified and printable version, including ingredient amounts and more formal instructions, see the recipe card below.
How to make this grapefruit aperol margarita
Prep your glass. Then, use a lime wedge to rim them with a mixture of Tajin and salt. If you have space in your fridge or freezer, you can do this ahead of time and pop them in to chill.
Mix your margarita. Combine your cocktail ingredients in a shaker with ice. Cover and shake until nice and cold. Then, strain into a margarita (or really any glass works) glass filled with ice.
Add a lime slice to the rim before serving. You could also serve with a grapefruit slice – use what you have.

Frequently asked questions

Ingredients
- 2 ounces grapefruit juice
- 2 ounces tequila
- 3/4 Aperol
- 1/2 ounce lime juice
- 1/2 ounce agave nectar
- For garnish: lime wheel
- For the rim: Tajin (coarse salt)
Instructions
- Rim a cocktail glass with Tajin and salt. Set aside (chill if you have the time).
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add the cocktail ingredients. Cover and shake until cold – about 20 seconds. Then, strain into a glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
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