100% Agave Espadin is a purebred tequila distilled exclusively from the agave species "Agave Espadin". Espadin is the most commonly used agave species for the production of mezcal and tequila. The term "100% agave" means that the tequila is produced exclusively from agave and that no additional sugar or other ingredients are added.
Tequila is made from the juice of the agave espadin, which is extracted after the agave is cut from its pit. The juice is then processed in a process called "double distillation" to produce alcohol. The tequila is then aged in oak barrels to develop its characteristic aromas and flavors.
100% Agave Espadin tequila has a distinctive flavor and aroma that comes from the agave espadin. It is known for its sweet, fruity notes, such as pineapple and citrus, and has a slight smokiness. Depending on how long the tequila has been aged, it may also have notes of vanilla, oak and spice.
Because 100% Agave Espadin tequila is made exclusively from agave, it is of higher quality than tequilas that may also contain other ingredients such as corn syrup. If you are a tequila lover who prefers pure, authentic tequilas, you should definitely choose 100% Agave Espadin tequila.
What are Tobala, Cirial, Lumbre and Tobasiche?
Tobala, Cirial, Lumbre and Tobasiche are different species of wild agave used for the production of tequila. Each species differs in its flavor, aroma and growth pattern.
Tobala is a wild agave species that grows in the mountains of Oaxaca, Mexico. It produces a small amount of sugary liquid, but it is known for its intense sweetness and subtle flavors of herbs and mineral notes. Due to its scarcity and high price, Tobala is one of the most sought-after and expensive agave species for the production of tequila.
Cirial is another rare agave species that grows wild in the mountains of Oaxaca. Cirial tequila is characterized by its sweet vanilla notes combined with spicy and slightly smoky flavors.
Lumbre is another wild agave species that grows mainly in the state of San Luis Potosi in Mexico. Lumbre tequila is often associated with a light smokiness reminiscent of scotch, but there are also fruitier lumbre tequila varieties.
Tobasiche is a wild agave species that grows in several regions in Mexico, including Oaxaca and Puebla. Tobasiche tequila is characterized by its unique combination of fruity, earthy and mineral notes.
Each of the above agave species has its own flavor and aroma. Each producer experiments with them in their own way to create special tequila varieties with different aroma compositions and flavor profiles. If you are interested in tequila, it is definitely worth trying tequilas from different agave species to experience and enjoy their differences.
What’s the Difference Between Highland and Lowland Tequila?
The main difference between Highland and Lowland tequila lies in the region where they are produced within the Mexican state of Jalisco. Tequila from the Highlands (Los Altos) is produced in the higher altitudes of Jalisco, where the climate is cooler and the soil has a higher mineral content. Conversely, Lowland tequila (Tequila Valley) is produced in the lower altitudes, where the climate is warmer and the soil has a lower mineral content.
Due to the climatic and soil differences, Highland tequila tends to have a sweeter, fruitier taste with floral and herbal notes. Lowland tequila, on the other hand, is characterized by more earthy and vegetal notes with a stronger, spicier flavor.
Another important factor in the taste of tequila is the type of agave used. Highland tequila typically uses agaves with a higher sugar content, while Lowland tequila uses agaves with a lower sugar content. This can contribute to the differences in the flavors and aroma of both tequilas.
Overall, the difference between Highland and Lowland tequila is quite significant, which contributes to their unique taste profile. While both regions produce excellent tequilas, the terroir influences their characteristics, and as a result, preference for one region over the other tends to be a matter of personal taste.
How do you drink Tequila in Mexico?
In Mexico, tequila is traditionally drunk or served in a variety of ways, depending on the region or occasions. Here are some of the common ways to drink tequila in Mexico:
- Sipping Tequila: In Mexico, tequila is often enjoyed slowly in a sipping or cognac glass, like a fine whiskey. This is a great way to experience the aromas and flavors of tequila.
- Tequila and Sangrita: Another common method in Mexico is to serve tequila with a shot of homemade sangrita. Sangrita is a drink made of mixed juice, tomato sauce, chile, onion, lime, orange and grenadine syrup. It is often served in small, separate glasses, followed by a tequila shot glass. People drink the tequila first and then the sangrita to neutralize the alcohol as well as to experience the flavors in the combination of sangrita and tequila.
- Tequila Blanco with Salt and Lime: This method is often referred to as "Tequila Cruda". Before drinking a shot of tequila, you lick salt onto the skin on your hand between your thumb and forefinger, then drink the tequila and bite into a slice of lime afterwards.
- Tequila and beer: In Mexico, many people also drink tequila as a beer mix. You drink the beer first and then a shot of tequila. This combination is said to weaken the effect of the tequila.
There are many ways to drink tequila these days, and it is up to each person to decide which method to choose. However, it is important to note that tequila is an alcoholic beverage and should be drunk in moderation.
What percentage has Tequila
The alcohol content of tequila varies depending on the type of tequila and how it was produced.
Blanco tequila is typically bottled after the initial distillation process and has an alcohol content ranging from 38-40% ABV (alcohol by volume).
Reposado tequila is aged for a minimum of two months and up to 12 months. The aging process can lower the alcohol content slightly, in the range of 35-38% ABV.
Añejo tequila is aged at least one year (and up to three years) in oak barrels. Añejo tequilas tend to have a smoother finish and a slight sweetness, with an alcohol content ranging between 35-40% ABV.
Most tequilas fall within this range of alcohol content, although it's essential to check the label on the bottle to determine the specific alcohol content. It's important to drink tequila responsibly, and to know your limits, as drinking too much of any alcoholic beverage can have negative health effects.
Who makes Casamigos Tequila?
Casamigos Tequila is a brand of tequila that was co-founded by actor George Clooney, businessman Rande Gerber and property developer Mike Meldman. The idea for the brand began when Clooney and Gerber wanted to create a tequila that they could enjoy on vacation homes in Mexico. They previously tried many different tequilas, which left them with a harsh taste or an overwhelming alcohol burn.
Initially, Casamigos was intended to be a private label, only for their own use and their close friends. However, after it gained popularity and many requests, they decided to officially launch the brand in the market in 2013.
The production of Casamigos Tequila takes place in Jalisco, Mexico, and is made from 100% blue Weber agave. The tequila is distilled in copper pot stills and aged to perfection in American Oak barrels, rendering three exquisite varieties of Tequila: Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo.
In 2017, George Clooney and Rande Gerber sold their Casamigos Tequila brand to the alcoholic beverage company, Diageo, for a reported sum of $1 billion. Today, the company continues to produce high-quality, award-winning tequilas under the Casamigos brand name.
What is the best Tequila?
Determining the "best" tequila depends largely on your personal preferences and taste. Here are a few things to consider when selecting a high-quality tequila:
- Look for tequila made from 100% blue agave, which indicates a higher quality product.
- Consider the different types of tequilas, Blanco, Reposado or Anejo depending on how long they have been aged.
- Select tequila made by a reputable brand or distillery. Some popular and well-known tequila brands include Don Julio, Herradura, Patrón, Casamigos, and Clase Azul.
- Take the time to read reviews and ratings of different tequila options from other tequila lovers or experts.
- Choose tequilas with tasting notes that are agreeable to your palate - this can create a great experience with tequila.
Ultimately, the best tequila is one that you enjoy savoring and sipping, either straight up or in a cocktail. Premium tequilas, like Clase Azul Ultra, Casa Dragones, and Fortaleza Winter Blend, are known for their high quality, unique taste, and smoothness.
It is recommended that you avoid low-quality tequilas that are mixed with low-quality distilled spirits and artificial flavors that can create a burning sensation and artificial taste. Therefore, always go for the high-quality 100% agave tequilas.
How to make a Tequila sunrise?
Here is a recipe to make a classic Tequila Sunrise:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. Tequila
- 4 oz. Orange juice
- ¾ oz. Grenadine syrup
- Ice
- Orange slice (for garnish)
- Maraschino cherry (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Fill a highball glass 2/3 full with ice.
- Pour the Tequila into the glass.
- Add the orange juice and stir thoroughly.
- Slowly pour the grenadine syrup in the center of the glass over a spoon, so that it sinks to the bottom creating a layered effect.
- Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.
- Use a long stirrer or straw and gently swirl the ingredients from the bottom of the glass to the top, then enjoy your perfectly crafted Tequila Sunrise.
Variations on this recipe may include replacing the orange juice with pineapple juice and the addition of a bit of lime juice. This cocktail is perfect for sipping by the pool or at a beach party with its beautiful, vibrant sunrise colors gradually moving through the glass. Cheers!
How much sugar is in Tequila
Tequila does not contain sugar or has only a minimal amount of sugar with a content of less than a gram per serving.
During the production process of tequila, the Agave plant (from which tequila is made) undergoes a cooking and fermentation process, which results in the conversion of the starches in the plant into alcohol. While agave plants may contain naturally occurring sugars before processing, most of them are converted into alcohol.
However, flavored or sweetened tequila products that contain added sugars can be different. Always check the label and ingredients list when purchasing flavored or sweetened tequilas to determine their sugar content. Opt for a high-quality 100% agave tequila for the purest form of the spirit with no added sugars.
It’s important to note that excessive alcohol consumption can still lead to an increase in blood sugar levels and could cause other negative health effects.
What juice goes good with Tequila?
Tequila mixes well with many different fruit juices. Here are a few of the most popular and delicious combinations:
- Lime juice: lime juice is an excellent choice for tequila-based cocktails, as it complements the flavor of the tequila very well. This is why it is commonly used in a margarita, which usually consists of tequila, lime juice, and triple sec.
- Grapefruit juice: grapefruit juice has a slightly bitter taste that can balance out the sweetness of the tequila. It works well in a Paloma, which is made with tequila, grapefruit juice, and lime.
- Pineapple juice: pineapple juice is sweet and acidic, making it a perfect match for tequila. It is often used in a Tequila Sunrise, which is tequila mixed with orange juice and topped with a splash of grenadine.
- Cranberry juice: cranberry juice adds a tart flavor that can balance out the sweetness of the tequila. It works well in a Cosmopolitan, which is traditionally made with vodka, but can also be made with tequila in place of vodka.
- Orange juice: orange juice is a classic choice for tequila-based cocktails, and it can be combined with many other ingredients to create different flavors. One popular option is a Tequila Screwdriver, which is tequila mixed with orange juice and garnished with an orange slice.
There are many other juice options to mix with tequila, so feel free to experiment and create new and interesting cocktails according to your preference.