Tequila or not tequila? That is the question.
Monday 24th July is National Tequila Day and we thought you might enjoy a few tequila facts and recommendations to help you get in the mood.
Tequila is a type of Mezcal (which is a spirit made from any agave plant), and like wine, it has specific rules for its production. It is thought to have its origins in a drink called ‘pulque’, which has been made since 150BC. In Mexico there are 5 regional designations where tequila can be made: Guanajuato, Michoacán, Nayarit, Tamaulipas, and Jalisco, with Jalisco accounting for the majority of production. The types of soil that the agave plant is grown on imparts its sense of terroir on the drink, with those from the highland usually being grassier and slightly sweeter than those from the valley floor, which tend to have an earthier and more mineral character.
To be considered a tequila, a spirit must be made of at least 51% blue agave. The blue agave plant takes 8-12 years to mature and when it is harvested it will stand around 7ft tall. Unlike wine, the whole agave plant is harvested before the hearts, or piñas, are extracted, roasted, crushed and fermented. There are three main styles of tequila; Blanco, Reposado and Añejo. Blanco, or silver tequila is unaged and is simply bottled after distillation. Reposado tequilas are aged in oak barrels for between 2 months and a year, whilst Añejo tequilas are aged between 1-3 years in barrels before they are released. There are also gold tequilas, aged in barrel for 1 or 2 months, and Extra Añejo tequilas, aged in barrel for more than 3 years.
To make your life a little easier we have 3 fantastic tequila recommendations for you to sip or use in your home-made cocktails, plus a pre-mixed cocktail for those who want a quick and easy fix. Finally, if you fancy being a little more adventurous why not try replacing the traditional salt and lime accompaniment with some powdered cinnamon and a slice of orange, which adds a spicy richness to the spirit.
Tapatio Blanco Tequila 50cl £31.99
Tequila Tapatio is a 100% agave tequila, from the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. First produced in 1937 at La Altena distillery, it is still made today using the same artisanal methods. Tapatio Blanco is a 100% pure agave tequila which is double-distilled at 40% ABV and bottled without any additional water to preserve its true, authentic flavours. It shows fresh green pepper, spices, apple and earthy notes with a sweet roasted agave finish. Tapatio Blanco is outstanding in classic tequila cocktails such as the margarita.
El Rayo Tequila No. 2 Reposado 70cl, £41.99
El Rayo’s Reposado is a full bodied and layered tequila made from 100% blue agave. Rested in ex-whisky casks for 7 months, it has a golden caramel colour and a rich, nutty complexity. Notes of aromatic spices give way to flavours of cinnamon, fresh herbs and bitter orange.
Rooster Rojo Anejo Tequila 70cl, £34.99
Aged for a minimum of one year in used bourbon barrels and has a more pronounced richness and exceptional smoothness. 100% agave with aromas of oak, chocolate, tobacco and coffee. These flavours follow through to the palate with additional layers of caramel, vanilla and roasted agave. The finish is smooth and rich with a long length.
Tommy's Margarita - Large, Bottle Proof 70cl £34.99
This pre-mixed cocktail is from our wonderful friends over at Bottle Proof. With tequila enjoying a resurgence, this classic cocktail is a must stock. Tequila, apple juice and lime. No egg white. Shake in martini glass and pour into a rocks glass with ice. Garnish with a slice of lime.