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Tequila
An introduction to the SPIRIT of the agave!
Tasting and drinking Tequila
Tasting Tequila:Tequilas vary in taste considerably.
There is a very real difference between, say, the reposados of Hussong's - very strong agave flavour - and El Tesoro - solid body and mellow aromas - and Hornitos - peppery bite and long finish - and Herradura - mellow, back-of-the-palate smoothness. You will have to sample many brands before you find the one(s) that suit you best. Mezcals differ even more between brands - and are very distinct compared with tequilas (mezcal is well worth exploring more seriously if you have never experienced a premium brand).
How to drink tequila:The traditional way is to use a tall, narrow shot glass called a caballito ('little horse', or pony, also called a tequilito). Some aficionados claim añejos are perhaps better served in a brandy snifter so you can appreciate their nose, but I prefer the traditional approach for all types. The caballito, with its narrow base and wider mouth, is said to be modelled after the original bull's horn, from which tequila was drunk. The bottom was cut flat so it could rest on a table. It's a perfect size and shape.
Sip it. Eschew the lime and the salt. Forget the margarita mix.Don't even add ice. If you want to taste it, drink it neat. Some people like it served cold, especially the blanco variety. But try it at room temperature if you want to appreciate the full bouquet and body. Afterwards, once you've appreciated its character, you can always put out a plate of lime slices and salt.
Choosing a Tequila:
The best advice is to try several brands and several types to find the taste you like. Some distilleries have reputations for making mild, spicy or earthy brands, others for strong alcohol finish or other tastes. A good way to introduce yourself to tequila is to find a bar which specializes in it, and a bartender who understands the differences between them. Although some companies age their premium añejo tequilas for seven-eight years, tequila doesn't benefit from extensive aging the same way that other spirits or wines may.
The most important identifier on the label is "100% agave" or "100% agave azul" - cien por ciento de agave azul. This means it is made only from the blue agave plant, and was approved by a government inspector to ensure purity. If it doesn't say this, it legally can be mixed up to 49 per cent with other ingredients
