Everything You Need to Know About Tequila

What exactly is tequila? Well, it's not just a party starter or a regrettable decision waiting to happen (although it can be both). Tequila is a spirit made from the blue agave plant, which is grown primarily in the tequila region of Mexico. Learn more about this spirit with Seneca Wine and Liquor, located at 8630 Seneca Turnpike, New Hartford, NY.

 First, we have the heart and soul of tequila production—the agave plant. While several types of agave can be used, the Blue Weber agave is the star of the show and is legally required for any agave spirit to call itself tequila. When the agave plants reach optimal maturity (typically after 7-10 years), it's time for the big chop. Harvesters cut away the spiky leaves to reveal the piña—the heart of the agave plant, which resembles a giant pineapple. It's like a treasure hunt in the desert, with each piña holding the promise of liquid gold. The harvested piñas are loaded into massive ovens or autoclaves and slow-cooked to perfection. This cooking process softens the agave's tough fibers and unlocks its natural sugars, setting the stage for the next step in the journey: fermentation.

Once cooked, the agave is mashed or shredded to extract its sweet nectar. This magical elixir is transferred to fermentation tanks, where wild yeast or cultivated strains work their fermentation magic. Once fermentation is done, it's time to turn up the heat! The fermented agave juice is distilled not once but twice (sometimes thrice for extra smoothness) in copper pot stills or column stills. This distillation process purifies the liquid, removing impurities and concentrating those signature tequila flavors.

Some tequilas, like fine wine, get better with age. They're aged in oak barrels, imparting rich flavors and complexities. Blanco tequila skips the aging process altogether, while Reposado and Añejo tequilas soak up the flavors of the barrels for months or years, resulting in smooth, nuanced spirits worthy of savoring neat or simply on the rocks.

Blanco (Silver or White): Blanco tequila is the purest expression of tequila, bottled straight from the still without any aging. Expect crisp, vibrant flavors of agave, with a hint of earthiness and a kick of peppery spice. It's like a summer breeze in a glass—refreshing, invigorating, and ready to party.
Reposado (Rested): Aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two months (but less than a year), Reposado tequila takes on subtle hints of vanilla, caramel, and oak with a smoothness that'll have you reaching for another sip. It's like a lazy Sunday afternoon—relaxed, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying.
Añejo (Aged): Aged in oak barrels for at least one year (but less than three), Añejo tequila has rich, complex flavors of toasted oak, dark chocolate, and dried fruit, with a velvety smoothness that'll leave you wanting more. It's like a fine wine—sophisticated, nuanced, and utterly delicious.
Extra Añejo (Ultra-Aged): Aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years, Extra Añejo tequila is simply luxurious, with flavors of caramel, leather, and spice that dance on the palate like a symphony of pure indulgence. It's like sipping on liquid gold—opulent, decadent, and utterly unforgettable.

Tequila can be classified as either Mixto or 100% Agave, depending on the ingredients used. Mixto tequila is made from a blend of at least 51% agave sugars and other sugars (typically cane sugar) and may contain additives like caramel coloring and flavorings. On the other hand, 100% Agave tequila is made solely from agave sugars, with no additional sugars or additives allowed. It's like the difference between a gourmet feast and a fast-food fix—quality over quantity, every time.

Tequila is best enjoyed when served at the right temperature to unlock its full range of flavors and aromas. For Blanco and Reposado tequilas, aim for a slightly chilled drink—around 40-50°F (4-10°C). This allows the flavors to shine without being overwhelmed by the chill. Añejo and Extra Añejo tequilas, on the other hand, can be served at room temperature or slightly warmer to enhance their rich, complex profiles.

Grab yourself a stemmed glass (preferably a Glencairn or copita) to capture those aromas and flavors. Avoid shot glasses, as they don't provide the same level of sensory experience. Hold the glass up to the light and take a moment to admire the color of the tequila. Is it crystal clear like a mountain stream, or does it have a golden hue from aging in oak barrels? The color can give you clues about the tequila's age and character.

Bring the glass to your nose and take a deep sniff. Inhale slowly and let those aromas waft over you like a fragrant breeze. You might pick up notes of sweet agave, citrus, herbs, or even hints of vanilla and oak from aging.

Time to taste! Sipping tequila is an art form, and mastering the technique can enhance your enjoyment. Start by taking a small sip and let it linger on your palate for a moment. Swirl it around like a fine wine, coating your tongue and awakening your taste buds. Pay attention to the texture—is it smooth, velvety, or bold and spicy?

Now comes the fun part—exploring the flavors! Notice the sweetness of the agave, the warmth of the alcohol, and any other flavors that dance across your tongue. Is it fruity, floral, herbal, or earthy? Take your time to savor each sip and appreciate the spirit’s complexity.

Ever read a tequila label and felt like you’re decoding a secret message? Fear not! Here's your guide to understanding those cryptic terms and symbols:

NOM Number: Every tequila brand is assigned a NOM (Norma Oficial Mexicana) number, which identifies the distillery where the tequila was produced. This number can provide valuable insight into the source and quality of the tequila.
ABV (Alcohol by Volume): The ABV percentage indicates the alcohol content of the tequila. Most tequilas range from 35% to 55% ABV, with higher ABV indicating a stronger, more potent spirit.
Production Methods: Terms like "traditional," "artisanal," or "handcrafted" indicate that the tequila was produced using traditional methods passed down through generations. These tequilas often have superior quality and craftsmanship.
Awards and Certifications: Some tequila labels may feature awards or certifications, such as medals from international spirits competitions or certifications of authenticity. While not essential, these accolades can provide additional reassurance of the tequila's quality and pedigree.

There’s nothing left to do now but to go out, explore on your own, and find your favorite tequila, whether for sipping neat or mixing into cocktails. For recommendations and inquiries, visit Seneca Wine and Liquor located at 8630 Seneca Turnpike, New Hartford, NY, check out www.shopsenecawine.com, or call (315) 724-8672.