I know, I know… we’re officially well into the second full week of 2015 already(!).
And that probably means it’s time for me to stop wishing everyone a “Happy New Year.” But when I think of places I like to toast big occasions such as the arrival of a brand new year (or, you know… a Tuesday), it should come as no surprise that La Cava del Tequila in Epcot’s Mexico Pavilion is at the very top of my list.
So I’d like to take one last opportunity to toast 2015 with you here on the blog with a couple of margaritas from The House of Tequila… the Tamarind Margarita and the Maelstrom Margarita!
La Cava del Tequila Sign
La Cava del Tequila entrance inside the Mexico Pavilion
But first, we’ve got to take care of what might be the second most difficult thing to do at this popular tequila haven… and that’s find a seat.
Seating in La Cava
Backs of chairs
No matter where you sit, all signs point to the star of the show… tequila! From the mural on the wall depicting the tequila-making process, to the huge array of bottles of tequila spotlighted at the bar.
La Cava Wall Mural
La Cava Wall Mural
La Cava Wall Mural
La Cava del Tequila Bar
So, what’s the MOST difficult thing to do at La Cava? Naming your poison. You’ve got your choice of over twelve specialty margaritas, and that doesn’t even begin to touch on the selection of straight tequilas.
Now, you know I love the Avocado Margarita.
Avocado Margarita
Other frontrunners for me include the Horchata and the Wild Passion Fruit. But on my most recent visit I just had to start by raising a toast to a much loved (and now extinct) EPCOT Center attraction with the Maelstrom Margarita.
You may recall (of COURSE, you recall 
) last October, when the Maelstrom attraction
in Mexico’s neighboring pavilion of Norway closed down permanently to make way for a “Frozen”-themed ride slated to open in 2016.
By way of tribute, La Cava introduced the Maelstrom Margarita (and subsequently endeared itself even further to us all): Premium Ambhar Tequila blanco, mango puree, orange liquor, and agave nectar along with blueberries, habanero peppers, basil, and a Tajin chili powder rim. Here’s the original tweeted image from La Cava:
©cavadeltequila
So, in memory of (and with more than a hint of nostalgic sadness for) viking boats, trolls, and those sweet, swirling fiberoptic lights in the woods, I raised my glass.
Maelstrom Margarita
Purely from a taste perspective, I enjoyed it, though I can’t say it’s one I’ll order again and again. But the strong citrus flavors combined with the unexpected but not at all overpowering kick from the habanero peppers and chili powder came together well for a fun tribute that looks to be a more of a fixture at La Cava menu than a passing fad.
Now, what do these specific ingredients have to do with Norway, exactly? I don’t know. I don’t care. ‘Cuz it’s the thought that counts, and clearly I’ve got to give some points for sentimental value alone. Well done, La Cava.
Still — and I’m surprised to say this — I enjoyed the Tamarind Margarita more! It’s Ambhar Blanco Tequila, tamarind pulp, orange liquor and agave nectar, also with a chili powder rim. First off, it’s a beauty.
Tamarind Margarita
But what is most appealing is the how the agave nectar elevates the sweetness of the tamarind pulp, making it all pop with flavor. And remember, if you’re put off by the idea of the chili powder rim, you can always request it without, just like anywhere else.
So, it’s another couple of winners from La Cava! I didn’t expect anything less.
Before we wrap, the other reason I wanted to take this chance to celebrate the New Year with you is because La Cava did, too! Check out this tweet from the official La Cava del Tequila Twitter account: “2015 will be full of surprises, including new brands, new margaritas, celebrity appearances, who knows, maybe even new venues or expansions.”
I’m sure this goes without saying, but I’m gonna say it anyway… I, for one, can’t wait! How about you 
?
Do you have a favorite La Cava del Tequila margarita? Please let us know with a comment!
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Are either of these made to order, or are they made with bottles of premade mix? Last time we went, it seemed as though everything was just poured from a bottle or carton.
Both of the margaritas look good, but I think I’d order the tamarind one.
GiGi — To my knowledge these are all made to order. They may make up a batch if they’re anticipating a lot of orders, but all of my drinks at La Cava have always been made to order…with the blender right there in front of me.
Gonna have to have a whole lotta Maelstorm margaritas to try and make up for taking away the ride….
Darn you Anna and Elsa
Every time I’ve been there I’ve had to wait to get in. Granted I’ve tended to be there during busy periods like Food and Wine and the summer, but it’s a testament to the quality of their offerings that the line often goes out into the plaza.
Does anyone know if the Tamarind Margarita is still available? I would love to try it!