What Makes a Great Tequila? Understanding the Basics of Tequila
Get clear on what exactly tequila is and its varieties so you can begin enjoying this wonderful spirit in both style and education! Get clued in on where it comes from, what differentiates the different types, and some insider knowledge on techniques.
The Basics of Tequila
Tequila is usually categorized into two main types: 100% agave tequila and mixto tequila. 100% agave tequila is made entirely from the agave plant, which is a type of succulent plant that is native to Mexico. The juice from the agave plant is fermented and distilled to create tequila. Mixto tequila, on the other hand, is made from a combination of agave juice and other sugars. It is usually less expensive than 100% agave tequila.
Within these two categories, there are different types of tequila that are distinguished by their aging process:
Blanco or silver tequila: This is clear tequila that is bottled immediately after the distillation process. It has a fresh, clean taste and is often used for mixing in cocktails.
Reposado tequila: This type of tequila is aged in oak barrels for between two months and one year. It has a slightly golden color and a smoother, more complex flavor than blanco tequila.
Añejo tequila: This type of tequila is aged in oak barrels for between one and three years. It has a darker color than reposado tequila and a more pronounced, rich flavor.
Extra añejo tequila: This is the most aged type of tequila, aged for more than three years in oak barrels. It has a very dark color and a rich, complex flavor. It is also usually the most expensive type of tequila.
There are a few other unique categories of tequila that you may hear encounter, including joven (similiar to a Reposado, but not as high quality) and cristalino, which are aged Tequilas that are filtered through charcoal. This process aims to remove tannins, enhance fruity and floral notes and achieve a clear blanco-esque appearance.
The Difference Between Mezcal and Tequila
Close in spirit and base (the agave plant) Mezcal and Tequila are worlds different in production. It starts with the location. Tequila can only be produced in specific regions of Mexico, primarily in the state of Jalisco and some neighboring regions, while mezcal can be produced in many regions throughout Mexico, primarily in Oaxaca. Now, about that agave plant. Tequila can only be made from blue Weber agave while mezcal can be made from over 30 different varieties of agave. This gives mezcal a wider range of flavor profiles.
Next, tequila is made by steaming the agave in ovens, while mezcal is made by roasting the agave in pits in the ground. Finally the matter of aging. While both tequila and mezcal can be aged in barrels, mezcal is often aged for longer periods of time and in a wider variety of types of barrels.
The choice between tequila and mezcal is largely a matter of personal taste and preference. However, if you're specifically looking for a spirit with a smoother, more subtle taste and aroma, tequila holds its own and has a generally more predictable flavor profile.
What Does Bad Tequila Taste Like?
You’ll know a bad tequila almost immediately. The reality comes down to ingredients and their ratios. Frankly speaking, cheap tequila (even if it was expensive to buy) generally contains 51 percent agave (the legal requirement) and the rest is sugarcane liquor flavored with caramel and colored with natural dyes. It may make for a quick shot, but certainly not a satisfying sip.
Good to know
Mexico is the only country where tequila can be produced and legally labeled as such.
What Does Good Tequila Taste Like?
Blind-tastings of tequilas will immediately prove that no two tequilas are alike, but the flavor profiles can be predictable in a positive way. Add in the reality of different aging processes and techniques, and you’re sure to get a wonderful variety. Just because a tequila is young doesn’t mean it is less flavorful or of quality. A blanco tequila will have a noticeably distinct tone compared to an extra añejo tequila. Both are worthy of your time and appreciation.
The root flavor profile across any tequila is offered by the agave plant and is centered on essences of smokiness, warmth, smoothness, occasional sweetness, and—with great tequilas— a sophisticated and wonderful aftertaste. Tequilas shouldn’t exactly taste alcoholic, but more floral, clear, and warm. Occasionally they can verge into areas of chocolate, caramel, and even sweet fruits.
Where does Tequila come from?
Jalisco, Mexico Image: Geographicus Rare Antique Maps
Tequila originated in Mexico. The blue agave plant which grows primarily in the region surrounding the city of Tequila in the western state of Jalisco, as well as some other areas in Mexico such as Guanajuato, Michoacán, Nayarit, and Tamaulipas. Tequila has been produced in Mexico since the 16th century, with the first commercial distillery opening in the town of Tequila in 1758. Today, Mexico is the only country where tequila can be produced and legally labeled as such.
The first tequila brand was reportedly Tequila Herradura, which was founded in 1870 by Félix López in the town of Amatitán, Jalisco, Mexico. However, it is worth noting that the production and consumption of agave-based alcoholic drinks predates the arrival of the Spanish in Mexico, and the origins of tequila as we know it today are still a matter of debate among historians and experts.
Celebrity tequila brands have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many celebrities entering the industry. It's not uncommon to see a celebrity promoting their tequila brand on social media or even in advertisements.
GOOD TO KNOW
Tequila is made by steaming the agave in ovens, while mezcal is made by roasting the agave in pits in the ground.
The tequila market is constantly growing and is worth billions of dollars, making it an appealing industry to enter. Additionally, many celebrities have a personal connection to Mexico or have a love for tequila, making it a natural fit for them to start their own brand.
It is worth noting that not all celebrity tequila brands are created equal, and some have faced criticism for cultural appropriation. It's important to do research and choose a tequila brand that values tradition and respects Mexican culture. We’ve vetted a few of our own favorite Tequila brands here.
Tequila-Forward Recipes
Tequila is a must-have in any accomplished home bar or fine cocktail lounge. The joy of tequila for mixing is its delightful flexibility in personality and preparation. It can absolutely be taken neat (without any water or ice) or on ice, but tequila is well-suited to cocktails. A few signature tequila-forward cocktails include the Margarita and the Paloma.
Tommy’s Margarita
This go-to cult classic is known as Tommy’s Margarita and is a bartender favorite. Its generally best to prepare a margarita with a younger tequila for a cleaner taste.
2oz Cantera Negra Silver, or similar young tequila
1oz fresh lime juice
.5oz agave nectar
Blood orange slice for garnish
Add all ingredients to cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously. Strain over ice in a half salt rimmed rocks glass and garnish with blood orange slice.
Paloma
Approachable and dead-simple to make, the Paloma is a refreshing drink with a strong reliance on grapefruit.
4 oz. grapefruit soda
1½ oz. blanco tequila
½ oz. fresh lime juice
¼ oz. fresh grapefruit juice
Pinch of kosher salt
Grapefruit wedge or slice (for serving)
Fill a highball glass two-thirds full with ice. Slowly pour in about 2 oz. grapefruit soda, filling glass about one-third full. Add 1½ oz. blanco tequila, ½ oz. lime juice, ¼ oz. grapefruit juice, and a pinch of kosher salt. Top with remaining grapefruit soda, stir gently, and garnish with a grapefruit wedge or slice.
Level 6 Rooftop’s Harissa Marissa
A contemporary spin on a tequila-based cocktail, this mixologist-crafted appraoch integrates both tequila and mezcal, another agave-based spirit.
1 oz. Don Julio tequila or similar mid-age tequila
.5 oz. Pierde Almas mezcal or similiar tequila
.5 oz Cointreau
.75 oz lime juice
.75 oz Harissa agave syrup
Jalapeno
Combine all ingredients in a shaker tin with ice, shake and strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice. Garnish with a Jalapeno and blended spice on rim.
Sweet Liberty’s Mexico, Stirred
This is essentially a ‘Mexican’ Old Fashioned because all the ingredients are Mexican, hence the name. It is rich, smooth, sweet, spicy, complex, sublime. It also an advanced-level challenge for a master mixologist.
¾ oz. Arette reposado or similiar tequila reposado
¾ oz. Abasolo whiskey
½ oz. Ojo de Tigre mezcal or similiar mezcal.
¼ oz Ancho Reyes
¼ oz. Nixta corn liqueur
¼ oz. agave nectar
3 dashes chocolate mole bitters
Combine all ingredients in shaker tin, add ice. Stir & strain on 1 large ice cube on a rocks glass. Garnish with an orange twist & grated dark chocolate.