First, make your simple syrup. Add the sugar and water to a small pot and bring to a boil. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Halve your limes. Sprinkle the cut side with sugar.

Add the limes to the grill cut side down until brown marks appear, about 3 minutes.

Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Juice the limes. You should end up with about 8 oz (1 cup) of lime juice.

Strain the lime juice to remove the pulp. Let cool.

When ready to make your margaritas, fill a pitcher with ice cubes. Add the lime juice, 12 oz mescal, 2 oz triple sec, and 4 oz simple syrup, stirring to combine.

If desired, rim your glasses with salt by running one of the juiced limes around the rim of each glass. Add the salt to a plate. Turn the glass upside down and press the rim of the glass into the salt until covered.

Pour the margarita mixture into your prepared glasses.