Tequila

Tequila is a drink made from the blue agave plant in the area of Tequila, the Mexican state of Julisco. The soil in around this area is perfectly suited for the growing of blue agave. More than 399 million plants are grown there each year.

Agave tequila grows differently depending on the region it is harvested in. In the highland region, the blue agave grows larger in size and has a sweeter smell and taste.

Agaves harvested in the lowlands have a stronger flavor and aroma.

Mexico has claimed the exclusive rights to the word “tequila”. Most tequilas are 80 proof, but some distillers will distill to 100 proof and then reduce the strength by diluting with water. The most respected brands distill the alcohol to 80 proof and do not dilute with water.

In Mexico, tequila is consumed with salt and lime. In some regions a side of sangrita (a sweet drink made from orange juice, grenadine lime and hot chillies) is served with a very fine tequila. The bandera Is another tequila drink that combines three shot glasses of white tequila, sangrita and lime juice.

In other countries, tequila is served with salt and a slice of lime. The drinker licks the back of their hand below the index finger and then pours on the salt. The salt is licked off, the tequila is quickly imbibed and the fruit is immediately bitten. Drinkers often do this in a group at the same time.

Tequila can be served in shot glasses, an official tequila glass or in a margarita glass rimmed with sugar or salt.

A variety of drinks use tequila. The most popular is the margarita, a beverage that made tequila famous in the United States. The original margarita used tequila, triple sec and lime juice. Today there are many variations of this drink.