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Tequila is a primary ingredient in most drinks; with the help of some tequila essentials and products, you can make your own amazing cocktail. It’s also a satisfying drink on its own without any add-ons. But whether you prefer it mixed with other ingredients or enjoy savoring it plain, this iconic drink from Mexico can turn any party into a raving fiesta. Before you pour your next glass, here are some interesting facts about this drink and why it’s always present at parties.
The Agave Plant
Tequila comes from the blue agave plant that grows in the region around Tequila, Mexico (obviously, the drink is named after the town where it originated.) Making tequila is a long process since the agave plants take about 7-10 years before they’re ready to be harvested. This makes every bottle a proof of tradition, patience, and the finest workmanship of Maestros Tequileros.
The Different Types of Tequila
It might come as a surprise to others that there are different varieties of tequila with distinct tastes. These assortments include:
- Blanco (Silver) – For those who are thirsty for some tequila and want an immediate sip, Blanco is unaged tequila that is bottled right after distillation. It’s tequila in its purest form with a strong agave flavor, citrus, and pepper.
- Reposado (Rested) – Aged for 2 to 12 months in oak barrels, reposado tequila’s flavor tastes of caramel, vanilla, and spice.
- Añejo (Aged) – Aged for one year, añejo tequila is richer in flavor, which includes complex flavors of oak, chocolate, and dried fruit.
- Extra Añejo – Growing the agave plant takes 7-10 years; what’s another three years, right? This premium tequila is aged for over three years for an ultra-smooth taste, kind of like sipping an expensive whiskey.
Drinking Tequila Like A Pro
Drinking tequila isn’t just taking shots. There are other ways you can drink and enjoy it like a pro, such as:
- Neat: Served in a small glass, room temperature, sipped and savored slowly (as opposed to your college drinking nights of drinking it straight from a shot glass.) Shot glasses are still tequila essentials, though.
- On the Rocks: For those who want their drinks cold, tequila can be enjoyed with ice. This also helps dilute stronger tequilas like añejos.
- Cocktails: A lot of cocktails will not be complete without tequila, such as Margarita, Tequila Sunrise, Montego Slay, Mexican Mule, and Paloma Cocktail among others. As such, it’s a versatile drink that’s a must-have in every bar.
Tequila Myths Debunked!
- Tequila will always give you a hangover because it’s a strong drink: Not necessarily! If tequila caused you a headache the morning after, you just drank a cheap, low-quality tequila. Good-quality tequila, especially 100% agave tequila, is much easier on your body. Newbie drinkers can still enjoy tequila in moderation and still go to work the next day!
- Worms in tequila: This is a myth. The worm is found in certain types of mezcal, not tequila. So, what’s the difference between the two? Both spirits are made from agave plants, but tequila can only be made by using Blue Weber Agave while mezcal can use any agave plant.
Tequila Essentials: Good Food
Tequila isn’t just for happy hour! It’s like wine, you can pair it with food!
- Blanco tequila: The citrusy flavor of Blanco tequila is perfect with ceviche, sushi and sashimi, caviar, and gourmet cheese.
- Reposado tequila: The sweetness of reposado tequila pairs well with cured meats, barbeque, beef tartar, and risotto.
- Añejo tequila: Chocolate times two! The rich caramel and chocolatey taste of añejo tequila goes well with dark chocolate. It’s like having a liquid dessert.
With all these fun facts about tequila, one thing you must never forget is to drink responsibly.
Tequila Decanter
This tequila decanter comes with four shot glasses. Handmade and from Mexico, it’s a must-have for any tequila drinkers to enjoy their favorite spirits. The color comes in Agave, Talavera, or Catrina.
Tequila Shot Board
I know, I know… some feel that Tequila shouldn’t be enjoyed as shots. But for those who prefer to drink their tequila like this, this board already has everything you will need to take a shot. Perfect as a gift or to serve tequila during parties or Taco Tuesdays.
Himalayan Salt Shot Glasses
What a time to be alive! With these shot glasses, you wouldn’t need to rim your shot glasses with salt anymore! Enjoy your tequila simple and easy. With proper storage and handling, you can use these glasses more than 100 times. They’re also aesthetic, making your “cheers” shot Instagram-worthy.
Sipping Glasses
If you want to savor tequila properly, you need these sipping glasses. This set comes with 4 5.5 ounce glasses for drinking Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo tequilas. The glasses are also dishwasher safe and are packaged in a nice box, so you can give them as a gift too.
Glass with Silicone Ice Mold
For those tequila drinkers who prefer their spirits cold but not watered down, you need this glass with a silicone ice mold. This glass is not only for chilling tequila, but also for chilling whiskey, bourbon, scotch and whiskey. It’s also dishwasher safe and comes in a nice box.
Cocktail Shaker
Margaritas are one of the most well-known cocktail drinks and you can’t make one without tequila. To do it right, you need this stainless steel cocktail shaker. Impress your friends every Margarita Monday with your bartending prowess as you prepare their drinks using this shaker.
Citrus Juicer
Of course, you can’t enjoy a margarita without limes and if you’ll be making one for all of your friends, you need this citrus juicer to juice all those limes in a snap. You can buy it in different colors, but we prefer the classic yellow and green to match the lemon and lime colors. The handles are also ergonomic, making it easy to squeeze all those citrus.
