The Hidden Secrets of Tequila

In a shot glass with salt and lime, mixed into a margarita, or sipped over ice tequila definitely has a place on the worlds stage. A rich history combined with a flavour all its’ own has caught the eye of many a bar patron over the years. This is one liquor that certainly stands out on its’ own.

The fanfare and folklore of tequila predates the Spanish arrival in the 1500’s, I shall attempt to bring to light a few highlights of its journey to today. First of tequila is both a drink and a town; located in Jalisco, Mexico tequila is one of the few foods or drinks in North America to have it’s own designation of origin (appelation de controlee). With rare exception outside of Jalisco, tequila is known as mescal. The base for tequila is agave honey water, it is also used for sweeteners and syrups.

Each brand will have their own recipe however all tequila fits into one of two categories and one of five classes. Each tequila will either be (100% agave or mixed) and will be blanco, joven, reposado, anejo or extra anejo (silver, gold, aged, extra aged or ultra aged) The blanco tequila is not aged at all and the extra anejo is aged a minimum of three years. Tequila is aged in oak barrels, so similar to whisky the longer a tequila ages the darker and smoother it becomes…typically. Some brands can impart a honey or straight sugar flavour wheras others showcase notes of mint or even some floral hints at times.

Every type of alcohol seems to have their coctails that evolve once the main category catches on. The clear and obvious choice for cocktails or mixed drinks using tequila would have to be the margarita, it seems as if each bar, or bartender, has their own signature way of preparing it. Secondly would most likely be a tequila sunrise composing of tequila, grenadine and orange juice. Honorable mentions certainly go out to the paloma, a mixed drink comprised of tequila and grapefruit soda.

Love it or hate it, tequila is here to stay. Next time, maybe look past the white and gold realms, and really get a good appreciation for what tequila can be. If you are willing to take the time to get to know tequila it may surpise you, as it did me, with all the characteristics the aged varieties have to offer.