What is Tequila ?

Tequila is one of the most popular spirits in America, even surpassing bourbon in sales recently. It is a spirit that conjures images of fun times with friends, warm weather, and a certain sense of adventure. This Mexican drink made from the agave plant has become increasingly popular worldwide, with its distinctive taste and unique cultural significance. But did you know that not all tequilas are created equal? In fact, there are several different styles of tequila, each with its own flavor profile, production process, and regulations. Whether you’re a seasoned tequila aficionado or a curious newcomer, understanding the different styles of tequila can help you appreciate this beloved spirit even more. In this post, we’ll explore the fascinating world of tequila and discover what makes each style special.

What is Tequila?

It is a distilled spirit made from fermenting and distilling cooked blue Weber agave. It is a subcategory of mezcal, which is the term used for any spirit made from distilling the heart of the agave plant. Tequila can only be made in the state of Jalisco in Mexico and is usually distilled to about 40% ABV. Tequila comes in different expressions, including blanco, repos, anejo, and extra anejo. Each expression has unique features, including color and flavor, depending on the aging process.

The agave plant takes about six to eight years to grow before it is harvested, cooked, and distilled into tequila. The soil or terroir that the agave grows in affects the taste and quality of the end product.

Tequila’s history dates back to pre-Hispanic Mexico when the native people used to ferment sap from the agave plant. The Aztecs used to make a beverage called Pulque, which was a precursor to tequila. The tequila industry has been facing some specific problems like the shortage of blue Weber agave, which is the only type of agave allowed in making tequila.

Different Classifications

Blanco or silver, is the purest expression of tequila. It is clear in color and typically bottled immediately after distillation. Blancos have a crisp and bright flavor profile, with notes of citrus and pepper. It is often used in cocktails because of its clean taste and smooth finish.

Reposado, which translates to “rested” in Spanish, is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two months but less than a year. This aging process gives the tequila a light golden color and imparts flavors and aromas from the barrel, such as vanilla, caramel, and wood. Reposado is often described as having a mellow and rounded flavor profile, with a hint of sweetness.

Añejo, which means “aged” in Spanish, is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of one year but less than three years. Añejos have a darker color and a more complex flavor profile than reposado, with stronger notes of wood and spice. It is often sipped neat or on the rocks, and is a popular choice for whiskey drinkers who are looking to explore the world of tequila.

Extra añejo is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years. This aging process gives the tequila a deep amber color and a rich, complex flavor profile with strong notes of wood, spice, and vanilla. Extra añejo is usually the most expensive and rarest type, and is often reserved for special occasions or for sipping slowly and savoring.

It is important to note that by definition, tequila only needs to be 51% made from agave, meaning that 49% can be made from other things. Therefore, it is essential to look for brands that are 100% made from agave, as some common substitutes like high fructose corn syrup can result in an unpleasant drinking experience.

In conclusion, tequila is a unique spirit that has been popularized by its versatility in making cocktails and shots. The different expressions have distinct features, including color and flavor, making it a diverse spirit to try.

What is Mezcal?

Mezcal is one of the hottest spirits on the market right now. Its sometimes called the smoky and flavorful older brother of tequila.

What is Mezcal?

Mezcal is a distilled spirit made from the heart of the agave plant. Lets explore what Mezcal is, where it comes from, its history, and what it tastes like. While there are many varieties of Mezcal, this article aims to give a basic understanding of the spirit.

Mezcal is a term used to describe any spirit distilled from the fermentation and distillation of the heart of the agave plant. While tequila is made from a specific kind of agave plant, mezcal can be made from about 30 different varieties of agave species. The traditional way to produce Mezcal starts with the Jimadores. Who go out into the field and chop off the leaves of the agave plant. This leaves the heart of the agave plant, or the piña, which is then cooked to release the nectar inside. They are then fermented, and distilled.

How it is made

To cook the agave plant, a big pit is created in the ground. A layer of charcoal lava rocks, firewood, and charcoal is added and lit on fire. The piña is placed in the pit, covered with dirt and soil, and left to cook for several days. This gives Mezcal its traditional, earthy, and smoky flavor, as the smoke infuses the agave with its flavor. Once the piña is done cooking, it is crushed to extract the nectar. Traditionally this is done by hand with clubs and knives. Sometimes a giant stone or cement wheel pulled by a horse, donkey, or mule is also used.

While there are over 30 different species of agave plants that can be used to make Mezcal, 90% of all of it, is made from the espadín species of agave. The flavors and aromas can vary depending on the species of agave used, where it was grown, and the production methods used.

It also has a long and rich history in Mexico, dating back to pre-Columbian times. Traditionally, it was used for religious and medicinal purposes and was considered a sacred drink. It was also used as a form of currency in some regions of Mexico.

How is it Different from Tequila?

It also has a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from tequila. It is known for its smoky, earthy, and vegetal notes, with hints of fruit, citrus, and spice. Some Mezcal has a rich and creamy texture, while others have a light and crisp mouthfeel. If you want to know more about the differences & similarities between Mezcal & Tequila, check out this blog post.

In conclusion, Mezcal is a unique and flavorful spirit made from the heart of the agave plant. Its rich history, traditional production methods, and wide variety of flavors make it a beloved drink among cocktail enthusiasts and tequila lovers alike.

Fortaleza Tequila. Why You Can’t Find it ANYWHERE

Why Can’t I Find Fortaleza Tequila?

Fortaleza is one of the most sought after tequila brands on the market today. In my opinion, it is also one of the best tequilas ever made. It is also a brand that is incredibly hard to find, and people are always asking why it is never in stock. In this blog post, we will break down why this amazing brand is so hard to find and what makes it so special.

Firstly, Fortaleza is a relative newcomer to the industry, having been created in 2005. However, the people who make Fortaleza come from a long line of tequila producers spanning over 125 years. Don Guiermo launched the brand with the explicit goal of creating tequila in the ancestral way that his family had been known for, for generations. Everything they do is handmade and created in a craft way to the highest level of quality possible.

Fortaleza is one of the most sought after brands because it is one of the most traditionally made brands. This directly plays into why it is so hard to find. The cost is also high due to its high demand. Many people have learned about the brand in the last year or so. This has lead to higher demand and because of that demand, supply has dwindled. In addition, there are only so many bottles that they can produce on a weekly, monthly, and yearly basis. And that is because of the traditional method used in production. This factor usually takes longer to produce and produces less quantity, making it harder to keep up with demand. Hence, prices have increased over the last year.

What makes Fortaleza Different than other tequila brands?

According to Rob, known as the Tequila Collective on Instagram and TikTok, the traditional factor that makes Fortaleza so unique also plays a role in its limited supply. He explains that the agave plant needs to grow for about six to seven years before it is harvested. At Fortaleza, the agave is chopped up into quarters or halves, and the heart of the agave plant is cooked in an horno, or brick oven. The Horno uses steam for about five days to cook the agave. This traditional method takes time and produces less quantity.

Despite the difficulties in finding Fortaleza, it is widely considered the best tequila on the market today. Its distillery is ranked number one out of all the tequila distilleries in Mexico, according to Tequila Matchmaker. The brand is known for its amazing product, which is produced in the ancestral way. Which so many people feel results in the highest level of quality possible.

In conclusion, Fortaleza is a unique tequila brand that is difficult to find due to its high demand and limited supply. However, its traditional production methods and high-quality product make it worth the effort of trying to find. If you manage to find a bottle of Fortaleza, be prepared to pay a premium price, but rest assured that you will be experiencing one of the best tequila brands on the market today.

STOP Drinking Don Julio 1942! Drink These Tequila Brands Instead!

If you’re a tequila drinker, you’ve probably heard of Don Julio 1942. It’s a tequila that’s widely popular in the United States, and you’ve likely seen it served in high-end bars and clubs. But while it may be a favorite of many, there are some good reasons why you might want to think twice before drinking it.

Why You Shouldn’t Drink Don Julio 1942

First and foremost, Don Julio 1942 is way overpriced. You can find a bottle for anywhere between $170 and $270, depending on where you look. And if you’re buying it in a club, it can cost thousands of dollars, which is just absurd. It’s not worth spending that much money on a drink just to look cool.

Another issue with 1942 is that it’s not a good representation of what tequila is supposed to taste like. Tequila is not meant to be super smooth. It’s supposed to have a distinct flavor that lets you know you’re drinking tequila. While Don Julio 1942 may be easy to drink and have a relatively good flavor profile, it’s not the best representation of what a tequila should taste like.

Don Julio 1942 is also owned by a giant corporation called Diageo. Who have a track record of buying brands and then doing questionable things with them. Some people claim that Don Julio 1942 has additives in it, although you can’t prove it since no company is out there advertising that they put chemicals in their tequila.

Drink these Brands Instead

So if you’re looking for a tequila that’s worth your time and money, here are three options that you should try instead:

  1. Fortaleza: This tequila is made by a very historic family of tequila makers. They have been making tequila for five different generations. Fortaleza is incredibly delicious, has a great agave flavor, and is an easy sipper. It’s also certified additive-free. It costs between $70 and $80, which is about half to one third the price of Don Julio 1942.
  2. El Tesoro: This tequila is made by a master tequila distiller named Carlos Camarena, who is an absolute legend in the industry. El Tesoro has a rich, natural agave flavor with some great undertones provided by the barrel. It’s also certified additive-free and runs around $70, making it a great alternative.
  3. Cazcanes: This tequila is a relative newcomer to the industry. It’s making strides by doing everything small batch in the right way. Cazcanes is certified additive-free and is one of the highest rated tequilas on Tequila Matchmaker. It costs around $135, but it’s worth the price for the incredible taste.

In conclusion, Don Julio 1942 may be a popular tequila, but it’s overpriced. It is not a good representation of what tequila is supposed to taste like, and most likely uses additives. If you’re looking for a better tequila, give Fortaleza, El Tesoro, or Cazcanes a try. These three options are delicious, certified additive-free, and won’t break the bank. So next time you’re in the mood for tequila, skip the Don Julio 1942 and try one of these alternatives instead.

Stop Drinking 818 Tequila! Drink These Brands Instead

818 Tequila: The Controversial Brand

Are you tired of hearing about yet another celebrity trying to sell you a mediocre product? Look no further than 818 Tequila, the highly controversial tequila brand launched by Kendall Jenner. Not only does it suffer from cultural appropriation and other issues that plague celebrity tequilas, but it’s also just not a very good tequila. And to make matters worse, it comes with a premium price tag, all for the privilege of having Kendall Jenner’s name attached to it.

818 also most likely uses additives in their production. I have an entire other blog post diving into what additives are and why they are being used.

But fear not, there are plenty of other tequila brands out there that are worth your time and money. In this post, we’ll be exploring three tequila brands that you should be drinking instead of 818 Tequila. So put down that overpriced bottle and let’s dive into some truly delicious tequila options.

Tequila Ocho: The Single Estate Tequila

Tequila Ocho is an exceptional brand of tequila created by two men in partnership. One of those men is Thomas Estes, the former tequila ambassador to Europe from Mexico. His partner is Carlos Camarena, whose family has been making tequila for generations. Tequila Ocho is a single estate tequila made with agave from one farm and one location. It is crafted with the highest level of care and detail.

Tequila Ocho is certified additive-free and widely available in the US and Europe. At around $50 for a bottle of Blanco, it is cheaper than 818 Tequila and of superior quality. It offers a robust agave flavor that is enjoyable to sip on its own or in a cocktail.

Mijenta: The Sustainable Brand

Mijenta is a tequila brand that offers sustainability and female representation in the tequila industry. The master distiller, Anna Maria Romero, has over 25 years of experience in the industry. The brand is committed to sustainability and works with partners who share the same vision.

Mijenta is a certified additive-free tequila brand that produces Blanco and Reposado varieties. The Blanco has a subtle agave flavor with spice notes that are easy to drink. The Reposado has a caramel characteristic with a balance of agave and spice notes. The bottles are also aesthetically pleasing and make for an excellent addition to your home bar.

Fortaleza: The Traditional Brand

Fortaleza is a tequila brand that values traditional practices and techniques. The brand is family-owned and operated and uses traditional methods to make their tequila. They use a stone wheel, called a tahona, to crush the agave before distillation.

Fortaleza produces Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo varieties. The Blanco has a sweet agave flavor with a peppery finish. The Reposado has a vanilla and caramel characteristic with a balance of agave flavor. The Añejo has a smooth, complex flavor with notes of vanilla, chocolate, and cinnamon.

In conclusion, while 818 Tequila may have its controversy, there are many other high-quality tequila brands on the market. Tequila Ocho, Mijenta, and Fortaleza are three brands that offer unique flavor profiles and traditional methods of production. Give them a try and find the tequila that suits your palate.

Don’t Drink Teremana Tequila! Drink These Brands Instead

Why You Should avoid Teremana Tequila

Teremana tequila has become a popular brand in the United States due to the celebrity status of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who launched the brand. This celebrity-owned brand has been making waves across social media and in bars all across the country. However, despite its widespread popularity, there are several reasons why you may want to think twice before trying this tequila brand. There are many problems surrounding celebrity owned tequila brands as a whole.

For starters, while some people claim that Teremana Tequila is free of additives, the truth is not as clear. The place that produces it doesn’t have the best track record and isnt one of the best ranked distilleries on Tequila Match Maker

But that’s not the only reason to avoid this tequila brand. While it may have a relatively accessible price point of around $30 for a bottle of the Reposado and a little bit less for the Blanco, there are so many other tequila brands out there that are much better in terms of taste and quality. In this blog post, we’ll be introducing you to three alternative tequila brands that we think are well worth your time and money.

So if you’re looking for a tequila that truly delivers in terms of taste and quality, you may want to steer clear of Teremana Tequila and try one of these other options instead. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.

Arette

One of the best alternatives to Teremana is Arette, which is confirmed additive-free. It is produced by the Orendain family, who have been producing tequila for multiple generations. The Blanco is available for about $23, while the Reposado is slightly more expensive at around $25. Arette is an excellent well tequila and works perfectly in a margarita.

Cimarron

Another great alternative to Teremana is Cimarron, which costs around $25. Cimarron is made at a distillery that produces other high-quality brands such as Tears of Llorona and Fuentesseca. Cimarron is 100% additive-free and has a great minerality and spice notes, along with a raw agave flavor. It works perfectly in a cocktail, but can also be sipped and enjoyed on its own.

La Gritona

La Gritona is a brand of reposado tequila that is owned and operated by a team of almost exclusively women. This matters because it is a rare thing in most industries. It is a lightly rested reposado and therefore it’s not as dark as some other reposado tequilas. Costco sells its across the country and it usually goes for about $30.

La Gritona is an excellent value for its price, and shows you what a great reposado tequila can be. The taste is vastly different from Teramana Repo, which has a fake vanilla and cotton candy kind of flavor to it. La Gritona has a beautiful bottle, but it can be a bit difficult to open.

When you take a sip of La Gritona, you’ll notice that it’s super light, almost barely rested, but it’s still technically a reposado. The agave flavor hits you right on the nose and it stands up really well in a cocktail. It’s a fun tequila to mix into your cocktails, but you can also enjoy sipping it on its own. Overall, La Gritona is an amazing value for a great tequila that is well worth trying.

Honorable Mentions:

While Tequila Ocho and El Tequileno are more expensive than Teremana, they are still worth considering for those who are willing to pay a little more for higher quality tequila. Tequila Ocho is a single estate tequila that can be found for around $45-$50 and is one of the best tequilas on the market. El Tequileno has two lines, with the regular line costing around $45 and the premium line costing around $90.

Teremana tequila has become a popular brand due to the celebrity status of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. There are many other tequila brands that are of higher quality and are available at a similar price point. Arette and Cimarron are both excellent alternatives to Teremana. They work well in cocktails and can be enjoyed on their own. Tequila Ocho and El Tequileno are more expensive but are worth considering. Especially for those who are willing to pay more for higher quality tequila.

Blanco vs Reposado vs Añejo Tequila: What’s the Difference?

Tequila is more than just a shot with salt and lime. It’s a complex spirit with a rich history and a variety of flavors. And if you’re a tequila lover, you’ve probably come across three terms that describe the different types of tequila: Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo. But what do they mean, and how do they impact the taste of the tequila you’re sipping on?

In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of tequila aging and explore the differences between Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo types of tequila. We’ll uncover the secrets of aging, the impact of the barrel on the tequila, and how to choose the perfect tequila for your personal taste. So, whether you’re a seasoned tequila drinker or a newcomer to the world of agave spirits, sit back, pour yourself a glass, and get ready to discover the magic of aged tequila.

Aging Tequila

Before we get into the different expressions of tequila, we need to first understand why are spirits aged at all. Aging a spirit is the process of placing it in a wooden barrel for a period of time, allowing it to take on some of the flavors from the wood inside. Unaged spirits can be quite harsh, so aging was initially used to smoothen the raw taste. However, this isn’t necessarily the case with tequila, as unaged tequila is quite popular.

Blanco Tequila

Blanco tequila is the most raw and honest expression of what the master distiller wanted to achieve with the tequila. It’s unaged, meaning it hasn’t been in contact with wood and is a clear, blanco-looking liquid. It has a clear or “blanco” appearance, and its taste is characterized by the distinct vegetal, earthy notes of the agave plant. Blanco tequila is typically used for cocktails, such as margaritas, due to its bold flavor profile.

Technically, for a tequila to be called Blanco, it needs to spend anywhere between zero and two months in a barrel. However, there are some exceptions, such as Montagave Blanco tequila, which is rested in bordeaux barrels from France, giving it a pinkish-orange color.

Reposado Tequila

Reposado tequila is rested in a barrel for anywhere between two months and a year, resulting in a slightly darker color than Blanco tequila. Reposado tequila provides the best of both worlds, blending the raw flavor of Blanco tequila with the aged notes of the barrel. It’s the perfect choice if you’re looking for a wholly unique aging process in spirits.

Añejo Tequila

Finally, Añejo tequila is aged in a barrel for at least one year, giving it a much darker color and a smooth, rich flavor. Anejo tequila is the perfect choice for those who want the distinct taste of tequila blended with the warm notes of a barrel.

Extra Añejo Tequila

In addition to the three main types of tequila, there are also extra añejo tequilas, which are aged for more than three years.

Extra Añejo tequilas are a relatively new category of tequila that was introduced in 2006 by the Tequila Regulatory Council (CRT) in Mexico. To be classified as an Extra Añejo, the tequila must be aged for a minimum of three years in oak barrels that have a maximum capacity of 600 liters.

The extended aging process gives them a dark color, rich and complex flavors, and a smooth texture. The oak barrels used for aging the tequila impart notes of vanilla, caramel, chocolate, and spice, and the longer the tequila is aged, the more pronounced these flavors become.

Tequila is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you prefer the boldness of blanco tequila, the smoothness of reposado tequila, or the complexity of anejo tequila, there’s a tequila out there for everyone. So, next time you’re enjoying a tequila cocktail, take a moment to appreciate the unique flavor profile that each type of tequila brings to the table.