“When life gives you lemons, grab tequila & salt!”
Tequila was first produced in the 16th century near the city of Tequila. Pulque (a fermented drink) was traditionally consumed in pre-Columbian central Mexico before European contact. When the Spanish conquistadors drank all of their brandy, they began to distil agave instead. Thus, producing one of North America’s first native Mexican Tequila.
Mexican Tequila is a distilled alcohol made from the blue agave plant. It grows primarily in the area surrounding the city of Tequila, northwest of Guadalajara, and in the highlands of Jalisco. Aside from differences in region of origin, tequila is a type of mezcal. However, mezcal is not tequila (yes, it’s confusing!). The difference between Mexican Tequila and mezcal is the production. Tequila must use only blue agave plants rather than any type of agave. Mexican Tequila is commonly served neat in Mexico, and as a shot with salt and lime across the rest of the world.
The blue agave is distilled and aged in various barrels for a variety of flavours. To find the right Mexican Tequila for you, make sure to know which style you would prefer – Blanco, Reposado or Anejo!
Blanco is tequila that is distilled (perhaps multiple times) and bottled directly afterwards. It is crystal clear, usually referred to as white or silver tequila. It has a bold and strong flavour and has a harsh agave kick.
Reposado is tequila that has been aged after distillation, and is aged or rested in oak barrels for a minimum of two months but a maximum of a year. It takes on a subtle flavour of the oak and other added notes and becomes smoother as it ages.
Anejo is tequila that has been aged for a minimum of one year but a maximum of three. It is aged in small oak barrels to concentrate the flavours. Anejo is smooth, complex and flavourful.
Whatever your choice, we have a wide range of quality Mexican Tequila to suit your taste!
