DESTINATION: COCKTAIL

To quote the legendary 20th century songwriter Prince, “Dig if you will the picture, of you and I engaged in a kiss.” Now transport that picture to an oceanside terrace at the tres classy Terranea Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes, where you and the prince or princess charming of the aforementioned kiss are batting eyelashes at each other with sultry abandon. Soon a drink is presented to you. It’s the decadent Terranea Agave Gold margarita created by the resort’s beverage manager and sommelier Steven Ashworth, and it’s dusted with actual 24-karat gold leaf. You blink. What recession? This $100 drink means you are rich in love.

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Terranea Agave Gold Margarita by Steven Ashworth

2 ounces DeLeon Reposado Tequila

1 ounce Cointreau

1 1/2 ounces fresh-squeezed lime juice

1/2 ounce agave nectar

Float of Grand Marnier Cuvee du Cent Cinquantenaire

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In a mixing glass, add ice, tequila, Cointreau, lime juice and agave nectar. Shake vigorously until well chilled. Strain into a chilled martini glass rimmed with Australian Murray River pink sea salt. Float a small amount of Grand Marnier Cuvee du Cent Cinquantenaire. Sprinkle top of cocktail with 24-karat gold leaf and garnish with a lime wheel on the rim.

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Terranea Resort, 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes. (310) 265-2800; www.terranea.com.

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Jessica Gelt