November 14, 2008

How to Talk About Tequila

We got an email from the folks at Herradura Tequila with tips on how to talk - and think - about the illustrious beverage. No, you don't have to drink the whole bottle. No, you don't have to shoot it. And no, contrary to what some people seem to think, tequila is not a stimulant.

Good tips, and Rick over at Martini Groove did a nice job cleaning up some of the markety language, so we'll just give you his; the folks at Herradura obviously want you to choose their tequila and we'd actually have to agree since it's one of our favorites, but it's obviously not your only choice.

1. Speak to its origins

2. Choose wisely
If you think all tequilas are the same , you're wrong. When ordering tequila at a bar, keep the following in mind:
- Stick to 100 percent blue agave tequila . Mexican law only requires that at least 51 percent of the sugars in tequila come from agave; so, many brands will complete their batch with other starches, diluting the authentic flavor of the drink.
- Silver or Añejo? Depending on how long the tequila rests in wood barrels, it will develop a flavor and aroma profile that will evoke a unique sensorial experience. Ideal for margaritas and other cocktails, Silver (aged for a matter of days) . On the other hand, Añejo is aged for months.

3. Sip it, don't shoot it!
You know you can't impress anyone by taking a quick shot of tequila, right? Unless you're drinking a margarita on the rocks or another cocktail, order it neat in a snifter glass to best enjoy its complexity.
- Before tasting, hold the glass up to a light. Swirl slowly and notice its legs - more rested tequilas show more body.
- Take three small sniffs from the center of the glass to get a sneak preview of the taste - you'll notice a different bouquet with each expression.
- Take a small sip of the tequila to get used to the alcohol taste. Then take a second sip and keep it in your mouth while exhaling through your nose to distinguish its aroma. Keep the third sip in your mouth for a few seconds to notice the flavor and texture of the spirit. Is it fruity? Spicy? Smooth? Close your eyes and try to pick out the different taste notes.
- Assess the flavor of the tequila that stays in your mouth and describe your experience to those around you.

via Martini Groove

Image via Yucatan Today