Tequila: It’s More than Just a Margarita-Maker.
Tequila: it has a reputation as a party drink, reserved for festive gatherings and tequila shots at college parties. But the truth is, high-end tequila is so much more than just something to mix into a Margarita. From its interesting history to its unique flavors, there is a lot to learn about tequila and its unique place in the world of alcohol.
The first thing to know about tequila is that it is made from the agave plant. It was first discovered by the Aztecs around the 14th century in the volcanic soils of Mexico. The agave plant needs to be well-tended in order to yield its sweet-tasting nectar. The process of gathering and processing the nectar from the agave plant is a tedious and complex process, but one that is essential in order to create the flavors that exist in tequila today.
The process of making tequila begins with the agave plant, which is harvested and then cooked in a wood oven. After the plant is cooked, the juice is extracted and placed into stainless steel vats. The juice is then fermented and distilled multiple times to remove impurities. This process is responsible for the unique flavor of tequila and the traditional blue agave flavor profile.
Tequila is divided into five categories, each with its own distinct flavor. The categories are Blanco (White), Reposado (Aged), Añejo (Extra-Aged), Extra-Añejo (Ultra-Aged), and Joven (Blended). Each type of tequila has a unique flavor that reflects its history and is suited for different types of drinks.
Blanco is the lightest type of tequila and is unaged, making it a great base for cocktails. It’s great for Margaritas, Palomas, and other drinks where the flavor of the tequila is featured.
Reposado is aged in oak barrels for two to twelve months and is the best choice for sipping tequila. Its smooth flavour and hints of wood are best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water.
Añejo is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of one year, giving it a more intense flavor than Reposado. It is great for making sipping drinks such as the Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
Extra-Añejo is aged for more than three years in oak barrels and is a great choice for the true tequila connoisseur. Its complex flavour and smooth finish make it perfect for sipping or for use in high-end cocktails.
Finally, Joven is not a type of tequila itself, but rather a blended tequila that can contain one or all five categories of tequila. It is often used in Margaritas and other mixed drinks as it provides both smoothness and flavor.
Tequila is much more than just a Margarita-maker. Its interesting history, complex flavors, and variety of styles make it a fascinating spirit to explore. From savoring a smooth Añejo to experimenting with a unique Joven blend, tequila has something to offer everyone. So next time you’re eyeing a bottle of tequila, take a moment to consider its unique qualities and potential flavor profiles, and open yourself up to a whole new world of liquid exploration.