TEQUILA
WHAT IS TEQUILA?
Tequila is a distilled alcoholic beverage that originated in Mexico and is made primarily from the blue agave plant. It is known for its distinct flavour profile, which can range from earthy and herbal to sweet and caramel-like, depending on the aging process and the type of tequila.
The production of tequila involves harvesting the blue agave plant, which resembles a large succulent with spiky leaves, and extracting its core, known as the piña. The piñas are then roasted or steamed to convert the starches into fermentable sugars. Afterward, they are crushed and the extracted juice is fermented with yeast to produce alcohol.
TYPES OF TEQUILA
Once fermentation is complete, the resulting liquid, known as the "mosto," is distilled at least twice to achieve the desired purity and alcohol content. Tequila is categorized into different types based on its aging process:
1. Blanco (or silver) tequila: This clear tequila is typically unaged or aged for a short period, showcasing the agave's raw flavours with a crisp and vibrant character.
2. Reposado tequila: Reposado means "rested" in Spanish, and this type of tequila is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two months but less than a year. It gains a smoother and more complex taste with hints of oak and vanilla.
3. Añejo tequila: Añejo translates to "aged," and this tequila is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of one year but less than three years. It develops a rich and robust flavour profile, often featuring notes of caramel, chocolate, and spice.
4. Extra Añejo tequila: This is the newest category of tequila, established in 2006, and it represents tequilas aged for a minimum of three years. Extra Añejo tequilas are characterized by their deep amber color and exceptionally complex flavours.Tequila is often enjoyed neat, in cocktails like margaritas, or as a component in various mixed drinks. It has gained global popularity and is celebrated as a symbol of Mexican culture and tradition.
Feel free to explore our Top 5 tequila bottles for each type of tequila. They were all handpicked by our Mezcal and Tequila expert, Eduardo Gomez.
TOP 5 TEQUILAS PER TYPE:
By law, Tequila is made in 5 states - mostly in the state of Jalisco
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