Author: Dirk Chan
Tequila is a distilled beverage made from the blue agave plant, primarily in the area surrounding the city of Tequila 65 km (40 mi) northwest of Guadalajara, and in the Jaliscan Highlands (Los Altos de Jalisco) of the central western Mexican state of Jalisco.
The red volcanic soils are well suited for growing of the blue agave, and more than 300 million of the plants are harvested every year. Agave grows differently depending on the region. Blue agaves grown in the highlands Los Altos region are larger and sweeter in aroma and taste. Agaves harvested in the valley region have a more herbaceous fragrance and flavor. Due to its historical and cultural importance, the region near Tequila was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006.
Tequila is made in specific regions of Mexico and must be made from only blue agave (agave tequilana), whereas its brother Mezcal can be made from a wide variety of agave.
The taste of tequila will vary depending on where the agave was grown as well as the age of tequila. Blanco tequilas, which are bottled soon after distilling have an earthy yet sweet flavour. Reposado tequila is more mellow than Blanco and has a soft oak flavour. Whereas Anejo Tequila, which is aged for the longest has a dark colour with a smooth balance between agave and oak flavours.
As with tequila, the taste of Mezcal will vary depending on where the agave was grown as well as the age of the spirit. There is much more variation in the flavour of Mezcal compared to tequila due the fact that tequila is made from only blue agave and Mezcal can be made from up to 30 different agaves. With an overall smokey flavour, Mezcal can also have floral, fruity and earthy notes.
Below are some Tequila recommendations. Enjoy!
Pictured left to right:
Corzo Tequila Silver (Mexico) – $62.99
Cabo Wabo Reposado (Mexico) – $82.99
Sotol La Higuera Leiophyllum (Mexico) – $62.99
Don Julio 1942 (Mexico) – $339.99
Other Tequilas worthy of your consideration:
Tequila Cimarron Blanco (Mexico) – 375mL – $29.99
Casamigos Blanco (Mexico) – $79.99
Casamigos Reposado (Mexico) – $89.99
Bacanora YooWe (Mexico) – $89.99
Cenote Anejo Tequila (Mexico) – $104.99