When are blood oranges in season (and what to use instead)?

Blood oranges are at their peak from about December through April. Out of season, substitute regular fresh orange juice plus a small splash of pomegranate or cranberry juice to mimic the deep red color and berry note. Bottled blood orange juice works too, though fresh is brighter.

Reposado vs blanco tequila

Blanco tequila makes a crisper, more citrus-forward margarita. Reposado, aged a few months in oak, adds soft vanilla and caramel that complement the blood orange's sweetness, which is why we use it here. Either works, so choose based on whether you want brighter or rounder.

Tajin rim vs salt rim (and how spicy it is)

A Tajin rim adds chili-lime tang and a very mild heat, far gentler than a jalapeno margarita. For more classic balance use plain salt, or do a half-and-half rim. Want it genuinely spicy? Add a couple of thin jalapeno slices to the shaker before shaking.

On the rocks, frozen, or by the pitcher

Serve over ice as written, or blend everything with a cup of ice for a frozen blood orange margarita. To batch for a party, multiply the tequila, lime, blood orange, and agave in a pitcher, chill, and pour over ice with a fresh Tajin rim on each glass.