Fun Facts About Tequila that you Probably Didn’t Know
Tequila might seem like a party in a bottle but there is a lot of tradition and style behind that fiesta-worthy flavor! Get to know your favorite liquor a little better with this deep dive into the most interesting facts about tequila!
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What is Tequila?
Tequila is a smooth, distilled beverage that tastes great on its own and in cocktail recipes. It is distilled from the Weber blue agave plant also known as agave tequilana weber. Agave is a type of succulent related to the lily plant family. It grows abundantly throughout Mexico.
Tequila does not require a long aging period before it can be enjoyed; in fact, tequila is sometimes consumed immediately after distilling.
How to Choose Tequila
As with most liquors and foods, choosing a good tequila is all about your personal tastes. Knowing a little about the different styles of tequila can make this process easier.
There are several types of tequila. These are a few:
- Blanco Tequila: This is silver tequila that has been aged for two months or less. It is also clear in color.
- Joven Tequilas: Joven tequilas are a blend of gold tequilas of different ages. Their flavor varies, but high-end joven tequilas can be comparable to quality scotch.
- Reposado Tequilas: This variety of aged tequilas sits from two months to two years. It tends to have a more golden hue and bold yet sippable flavor.
- Añejo Tequilas: This type of tequila is aged for three years or more in oak barrels. It has a golden color and a deliciously complex and kicking flavor.
Who Invented Tequila?
Tequila is an ancient distilled spirit with a deliciously rich history throughout Mexico and the southern United States. Tequila’s origins can be traced back to the 16th century near Guadalajara in the city of Tequila which is located in the Mexican state of Jalisco.
There are also records of the Aztec civilization producing a fermented beverage made from agave juice. This was an early relation to today’s tequila.
The early form of tequila was of incredible import to the Aztecs. They drank it as part of their ceremonies and celebrations.
Since then, tequila production has been perfected to make a delectably smooth and neutral spirit. Tequila’s popularity has only grown but the traditional importance of this drink stays the same. Tequila represents a connection to Mexican history and it is an important piece in bartending tradition.
Facts About Tequila Regulation
The Mexican law regarding tequila is stringent and covers every aspect of its production including that of tequila distilleries to ensure authenticity and quality. Mandating that tequila must be produced primarily in Jalisco and limited areas of other Mexican states, such as Guanajuato and Michoacán, it specifies that it must be made from the blue agave variety.
This law outlines the entire production process, from harvesting the blue agave piñas to distilling and aging the liquid, ensuring that only products meeting these strict criteria can be labeled as “tequila.”
Is there a Certain Way to Drink Tequila?
There are many routines around drinking tequila. Some are private and some are cultural traditions that tie people together.
Everyone has seen or tried the common practice of doing a tequila shot with salt and lime, but not everyone takes their tequila this way. Some people prefer to use an orange slice and cinnamon sugar for a sweeter shot.
Some people prefer to sip their tequila slowly with the right juice or snack pairings. The smooth flavor and alcohol content of tequila make it ideal for sipping with orange juice or lime juice and have some corn chips and salsa ready for snacking.
This Mexican spirit can also be mixed into tasty tequila cocktails. It is the signature ingredient in alcoholic beverages like the margarita, paloma, ranch water, and tequila sunrise.
There is no right or wrong way to drink tequila, just relax and enjoy its smooth and mildly sweet alcoholic flavor!
Are Tequila and Mezcal the Same?
One of the facts about tequila that some may assume incorrectly is that it is the same thing as mezcal. People often get confused when choosing between tequila and mezcal because they are both made with agave.
Real tequila is made from blue agave. Mezcal is a distilled agave liquor; however, what separates it from tequila is that mezcal can be made from any type of agave, not just blue agave. Very simply, any agave spirit that uses blue weber agave is tequila and any that does not is mezcal.
These fascinating facts about tequila offer a deeper understanding of this beloved spirit and its rich cultural heritage. From its origins in Mexico to the intricate production process, each detail contributes to tequila’s unique flavor profile and enduring popularity. Whether enjoyed neat, in cocktails, or paired with food, the complexities of tequila continue to captivate enthusiasts worldwide, making it a timeless favorite among spirits.