Ah, Tequila – the liquor that brings back fond memories of shots, lime wedges, and salt grains. While Tequila may not be everyone’s first choice, for some, it is the ultimate go-to drink. The Mexican spirit is appreciated and celebrated worldwide, but how much do you actually know about this iconic drink? In this blog post, we’ll cover some Tequila trivia, including what makes Tequila unique, its history, and some interesting facts that you may not have known. So, grab a glass of your favorite Tequila, sit back and read on.
What Makes Tequila Unique?
Tequila is distinct and stands out from other liquors because of its origin, production methods, and ingredients. It can only be called Tequila if it is made with at least 51% blue Weber agave, grown and harvested exclusively in the Tequila region of Mexico. Tequila is unique because of the following:
The Agave Plant
The blue Weber agave plant is the primary ingredient in Tequila. They are grown and harvested exclusively in the Tequila region of Mexico, making its production location essential in its unique taste. Agaves take almost a decade to fully mature before they are ready to be harvested. Also, the agaves have to be roasted in an oven to convert their starches into sugars to create Tequila’s final product. Thus, the agave serves as the base of Tequila and is what characterizes its flavor and aroma.
Aging Process
Tequila can be aged for a minimum of two months to a maximum of three years, depending on the brand and the desired final flavor. Different aging processes give Tequila distinct flavor profiles, ranging from the vegetal and earthy flavor of a blanco to wood-accented vanilla and caramel of an Anejo. The aging process for blanco, reposado and anejo all brings unique aging character to a tequila.
History of Tequila
The history of Tequila dates back to the 16th century, when the Aztecs fermented a drink from agave sap that they called “pulque.” Pulque was a foamy alcoholic drink that played a significant role in Aztec society, primarily religious ceremonies. When the Spaniards arrived in the New World, they brought their distillation techniques, which the Mexicans used to distill pulque and create Tequila, a stronger, more alcoholic version of their original drink.
In 1758, the Cuervo family established the first Tequila distillery in modern-day Jalisco, Mexico, and many other distilleries followed suit. In 1943, the Mexican government designated the area around Jalisco, which is the key region of Tequila production, as the exclusive region for authentic Tequila production.
Interesting Tequila Trivia
Here are some interesting facts about Tequila that you probably haven’t heard before:
Tequila Has a Protected Designation of Origin
To be called Tequila, the liquor must be made in the Jalisco state or one of the four surrounding states: Nayarit, Tamaulipas, Michoacán, and Guanajuato. The Mexican government established the protected designation of origin (PDO) in 1994, stating that Tequila can only come from these specific regions, much like Champagne coming from the Champagne region of France.
The Best Tequila Is 100% Agave Tequila
Though Tequila requires at least 51% blue Weber agave to be considered Tequila, those that are 100% agave are considered the best. The 100% agave indicates that all of the alcohol comes from one kind of plant, and ages in a barrel for a minimum of two months. This category of Tequila is often referred to as “premium” and are known for their high quality, smooth taste, and an absence of the unpleasant hangover feeling.
Salt And Lime Neutralizes Tequila’s Flavor
While many people assume that Tequila needs to be paired with salt and lime, this is not the best way to enjoy the drink. The salt was initially used to mask the taste’s acidity and bitterness, while the lime was added to neutralize the taste’s aftertaste. However, the best way to enjoy Tequila is to sip it slowly and savor its unique flavors and aromas.
There’s a Proper Way to Drink and Store Tequila
Tequila should always be stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight. Light and heat break down the plant’s volatile compounds and change the taste of the liquor over time. Additionally, Tequila should be consumed neat or on the rocks, at room temperature, to experience its unique flavor profile.
Tequila Was Once a Currency
During the late 1800s, bartering was common in the rural areas of Mexico where the currency was still in the form of animals, food or drink. At the time, Tequila was such a vital commodity that it was used as a form of currency. Locals would use Tequila as payment for goods and services, and it was even used to pay workers during the agave harvest.
In conclusion
With its unique production methods, aging processes, and ingredients, Tequila remains a distinctive drink that is beloved by many. While most people only associate Tequila with shots and margaritas, its rich history and interesting facts make it a drink to be appreciated and enjoyed slowly. So, next time you grab your Tequila, take your time to appreciate its unique taste and aroma, and don’t forget to drink responsibly. Salud!
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