Tired of the usual margarita recipe calling for tequila, lime juice and Cointreau (though that trio of liquids is certainly a tasty staple in anyone’s cocktail repertoire)? Here are a couple that will spice up your next party with friends.

Mid-Winter Margarita

5 oz. Tequila Don Julio Blanco

1 2/3 oz. Grand Marnier

3 1/3 oz. fresh lime juice

1 oz. agave syrup

1 sliced jalapeño

Splash of orange bitters

Muddle jalapeño in a cocktail shaker with agave syrup. Add Tequila Don Julio Blanco, Grand Marnier, fresh lime juice, orange bitters and ice into shaker. Shake well.

Strain contents into a pitcher over ice so that guests may serve themselves.

— Tequila Don Julio

Smokey Robinson

2 1/4 oz. mezcal

1 oz. blanco tequila

1/2 oz. triple sec

1 1/4 oz. lime juice

1/2 oz. apple shrub

1 1/4 oz. agave

2 cups ice

Blend all ingredients until smooth. Swirl in a full-body, slightly sweet red wine for added complexity. Rim with salt and dehydrated apple powder. Or just salt!

— Austin’s Odd Duck

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A rendering of the columbarium memorial that is estimated to be completed by next summer or fall in the southeast part of Oakland Cemetery, officials said. (Courtesy of Historic Oakland Foundation)

Credit: Historic Oakland Foundation