If your only memory of tequila involves salt, a lime, and regret, give it another chance. Good tequila is a sipping spirit in Mexico, and it is far more interesting than its party reputation.
What is it?
Tequila is a Mexican spirit made from blue Weber agave, a spiky desert plant (not a cactus). The name is protected: tequila must come from designated areas of Mexico, mostly the state of Jalisco. Look for “100% agave” on the label. Bottles without it are mixtos, which only need to be 51% agave.
How is it made?
Farmers harvest the heart of the agave, called the piña because it looks like a giant pineapple. The piñas are cooked, usually in ovens, to turn their starches into sugar, then crushed to release the juice. The juice is fermented and distilled. Some tequila is bottled right away; the rest rests in barrels, which creates the different styles below.
What does it taste like?
Earthy, peppery, and a little sweet, with green, vegetal notes and hints of citrus. Barrel aging adds vanilla, caramel, and spice.
What are the main styles?
| Style | Aging | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Blanco or plata | Unaged or very briefly rested | Bright, peppery, pure agave |
| Reposado | 2 months to under 1 year in oak | Smoother, a touch of vanilla |
| Añejo | 1 to 3 years in oak | Rich, caramel, sipping style |
| Extra añejo | Over 3 years | Deep and oaky, priced for special occasions |
| Gold or joven | Varies | Often a mixto with coloring, or a blend. Read the label. |
When would you use each style?
Use blanco in Margaritas, Palomas, and anything with fresh lime. Try reposado in richer drinks or a tequila Old Fashioned. Save añejo and extra añejo for sipping.
Which mixers work well, and why?
Lime is tequila’s best friend, cutting through the earthy flavor. Grapefruit soda (for a Paloma) adds bittersweet fizz. Orange liqueur, pineapple, ginger beer, and agave syrup all play nicely too.
What can you substitute?
Mezcal is tequila’s closest relative and adds smoke; start by swapping half. Vodka or white rum will make a drinkable stand-in for blanco tequila, but you lose the agave flavor that makes the drink what it is.
Did you know?
Tequila is a lot like Champagne: the name belongs to a place. An agave spirit made outside the approved areas of Mexico cannot be called tequila, no matter how much it tastes like one.
Try it yourself
Tequila recipes are coming in a future class. Meanwhile, try a simple Margarita: shake 2 oz blanco tequila, 1 oz fresh lime juice, and 3/4 oz orange liqueur with ice, then strain over fresh ice in a salt-rimmed glass. Add 1/4 oz agave syrup if you like it sweeter.