How To Drink Tequila

What is Tequila?

Tequila is a type of alcohol that is made from the blue agave plant, which is native to the area surrounding the city of Tequila, about 40 miles northwest of Guadalajara, Mexico. The process of making tequila involves cutting the leaves off the agave plant to reveal the heart, or piña, which is then cooked, mashed, and fermented to create the final product.

How to Drink Tequila?

Tasting tequila is a great way to learn more about the various flavors and aromas that the drink has to offer. Here are some tips and notes to keep in mind when tasting tequila:

1. Start with a good quality tequila: There are different grades of tequila, and the quality can vary greatly between them. To get the most out of your tasting experience, it's best to start with a good quality tequila, such as a 100% agave tequila. *SHAMELESS PLUG!!* Signing up for PourMore's tequila-of-the-month subscription program is a great first step *wink wink* 

2. Use the right glass: A tulip-shaped glass, also known as a copita, is the best type of glass to use for tasting tequila. This type of glass is designed to capture the aromas of the tequila, making it easier to appreciate the different flavors and aromas.

3. Look at the color: The color of the tequila can give you some clues about its flavor and aroma. Blanco (white) tequila is clear and unaged, while reposado (rested) tequila is aged for at least two months in oak barrels, giving it a golden color. Añejo (aged) tequila is aged for at least one year in oak barrels, giving it a darker, amber color.

4. Swirl the tequila: Swirling the tequila in the glass helps to release the aromas, making it easier to appreciate the different flavors and aromas. Be sure to hold the glass by the stem, as touching the bowl of the glass with your hand can warm the tequila and affect the aroma.

5. Take a small sip: Take a small sip of the tequila and let it sit on your tongue for a moment to allow the flavors to develop. Pay attention to the taste, as well as the mouthfeel and the finish (the aftertaste).

6. Take notes: As you taste the tequila, take notes on the flavors and aromas that you detect. Common flavors and aromas in tequila include agave, fruit, pepper, spice, and oak.

7. Tequila can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. Experiment with different serving methods to discover which one you like best.

8. Tequila can be paired with a variety of foods, including Mexican dishes, seafood, and spicy foods.

Tequila Tasting Notes

Tequila can have a wide range of flavors and aromas, depending on the type of agave used, the production process, and the aging process. 

In addition to the flavors, tequila can also have a range of aromas, which can be detected by swirling the tequila in the glass and taking a sniff. Some common flavors and aromas in tequila include:

• Agave: The flavor of tequila is typically dominated by the taste of agave, which can range from sweet and floral to herbal and earthy.
• Fruit: Some tequilas can have fruity notes, such as citrus, pineapple, and apple.
• Pepper: Some tequilas can have a spicy or peppery note, which can add a nice kick to the flavor.
• Spice: Tequila can also have spicy notes, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
• Oak: If the tequila has been aged in oak barrels, it can have a woody, vanilla-like flavor from the oak.

Overall, the flavors and aromas of tequila can vary greatly depending on the type of tequila and the factors that have influenced its production. By paying attention to the flavors and aromas when tasting tequila, you can learn more about the unique characteristics of this delicious drink.

Popular Tequila Cocktail

1. Margarita: The margarita is made with tequila, orange liqueur, and lime juice, and is often served on the rocks with a salt rim.
2. Paloma: The paloma is made with tequila, grapefruit juice, and a carbonated beverage, such as club soda or grapefruit soda.
3. Tequila Sunrise: The tequila sunrise is made with tequila, orange juice, and grenadine, which gives it a colorful gradient effect.
4. Tequila Mockingbird: The tequila mockingbird is a twist on the classic gin cocktail, the gin and tonic, made with tequila instead of gin.
5. Mexican Martini: The Mexican martini is a variation on the classic martini, made with tequila, orange liqueur, and lime juice.
6. Tequila Sour: The tequila sour is made with tequila, lemon juice, and simple syrup, and is often garnished with a cherry or a slice of lemon.
7. Tequila Gimlet: The tequila gimlet is a variation on the classic gin gimlet, made with tequila instead of gin, and lime juice instead of the traditional rose's lime juice.
8. El Diablo: The El Diablo is made with tequila, lime juice, crème de cassis, and ginger beer, and is often garnished with a slice of lime.
9. Michelada: The michelada is a popular Mexican cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and a variety of other ingredients, such as tomato juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.
10. Tequila Julep: The tequila julep is a variation on the classic mint julep, made with tequila instead of bourbon, and mint leaves instead of the traditional mint sprig.

Tasting tequila can be a fun and educational experience. By following these tips and notes, you can learn more about the flavors and aromas of this unique and delicious drink.