What’s the Proper Way to Drink Tequila?
Are you a tequila enthusiast? Or maybe you’re just looking to broaden your horizons? Either way, it’s important to know the proper way to drink tequila to truly appreciate its complex flavors. Here, we’ll go over a few key points to think about before sipping on this intoxicating spirit.
1. The Right Glassware
The glass you use can greatly impact your tequila drinking experience. The traditional glass used for sipping tequila is called a copita. This style of glass has a stem and a wider base, which allows you to easily swirl and sniff the tequila. If you don’t have a copita, any small glass with a stem or even a cordial glass will suffice. Just avoid using shot glasses as they don’t allow for proper aroma and flavor appreciation.
2. Quality is Key
Just like with any other spirit, the quality of tequila matters. Look for tequilas that are made with 100% blue agave. This means that no other sugars were added during the fermentation process. A tequila labeled as mixto is made with a minimum of 51% blue agave, with the remaining being other sugars. These tequilas are often cheaper, but they often lack the same depth of flavor that a 100% blue agave tequila has. If you want to take your tequila knowledge a step further, look for tequila that is made with agave that is matured for at least 8-12 years. These are often pricier, but have a smoother and richer taste.
3. The Right Temperature
Tequila is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled. If you’re drinking a tequila that has been aged, it’s best to let it sit in the glass for a few minutes after pouring to allow it to warm up slightly. This will help release the aromas and flavors. Colder temperatures will mute the flavors, so avoid serving tequila over ice.
4. Take Your Time
Tequila isn’t meant to be chugged like a shot of whiskey. Take the time to savor and appreciate its flavors. First, take a small sip and let the tequila sit on your tongue for a few seconds. Take note of the initial taste and then swallow. After swallowing, breathe in through your nose and take note of the aromas that come through. Finally, take another sip and swish it around in your mouth to release even more flavors. Take your time and enjoy the drink.
5. Know Your Tequilas
There are three main types of tequila: Blanco (or Silver), Reposado, and Añejo. Blanco tequilas are unaged and have a pure, natural flavor. Reposado tequilas are aged for at least two months, but less than one year, in oak barrels. This gives them a slightly woody flavor that pairs well with mixers. Añejo tequilas are aged for at least one year, but less than three years, in oak barrels. This gives them a more complex and refined flavor that is meant to be sipped on its own.
6. Tequila Cocktails
Tequila is a versatile spirit that pairs well with a variety of mixers. Margaritas are the most well-known tequila cocktail, but there are many other options to explore. Try a Paloma, which is made with tequila, grapefruit soda, and lime. Or a Tequila Sunrise, made with tequila, orange juice, and grenadine. Experiment with different mixers to find flavors that you enjoy.
7. Proper Pairings
Tequila pairs well with a variety of foods, especially those with bold and spicy flavors. Some popular pairings include tacos, ceviche, guacamole, and grilled meats. The key is to find foods that complement the tequila’s flavor, rather than overpowering it.
In conclusion, drinking tequila is an art form that should be appreciated and savored. By following these simple tips, you can truly experience all that this complex spirit has to offer. So next time you pour yourself a glass of tequila, take your time, savor the flavors, and enjoy the experience.
Happy sipping!
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