Tequila is one of the most beloved and popular spirits in the world, but it is also very powerful and distinct. Due to this, it can sometimes be challenging for those who are new to it.
For some people, the tequila may only ever appear during a party scenario and this isn’t always the best way to get the most out of the versatile drink.
There are a lot of different factors when it comes to truly enjoy a good tequila, and in this article, we’re going to give you some helpful tips on how you can start getting the experience you deserve.
So without further ado, here’s how to drink tequila like a pro!
A Common Mistake
The mistake most of us make is drinking tequila in the wrong environment. If you’ve never tried it outside of a nightclub, then that could be an issue.
Sure, every now and then it’s the perfect addition to a night out, increasing the good vibes and enhancing a fun atmosphere to socialise within.
But it’s important to ask yourself what it is you’re looking for before you get into anything too crazy.
We’ve all been there. Feeling fresh-faced and excited for the evening ahead, when one of your friends brings over a round of tequila shots (with salt and lemons to boot).
Before you’ve even finished processing the extremes of the first shot, another shot is shoved into your face. Repeat this process until you wake up the next day vowing to never touch tequila again.
This is not an uncommon experience in certain drinking cultures such as the UK. However, you shouldn’t allow a bad night to define your relationship with one of the most widely consumed beverages on the planet.
Tequila is a fine, traditional Mexican drink, with a long and rich history that deserves to be respected.
There is a time and place for every kind of drink consumption, but we would like to recommend some alternatives to the above scenario.
Agave
Agave is the plant that is used to make tequila. It is pronounced agar-bay and is fundamental to great tequila. Despite this, many tequilas are not made using 100% blue agave, and this can result in some unsatisfactory outcomes.
Essentially, you end up with something that is not truly tequila but still shares the name. All of the extra ingredients and supplements that are included in less pure forms of tequila can cause problems with the taste.
Due to this, some tequilas on the market are less than desirable.
It is recommended by most tequila lovers that you drink tequila that is made from 100% agave. If you don’t try it, then you’ll never know if you really enjoy it.
Age
With tequila, many believe that the flavour improves with age. To understand why this is, let’s take a look at the different kinds of tequila and the details of their ageing.
Firstly, there is Blanco tequila. This type of tequila has usually spent less than two months in a steel or oak barrel and has therefore not aged very much. It is easy to make but not the highest quality available.
Reposado is aged slightly more than this, but still less than a year.
Añejo is aged for between 1 and 3 years in an oak barrel. Oak barrels are considered preferable for the ageing of spirits due to the added flavour they provide, so this is a pretty good amount of time.
But the most aged type of tequila is known as Extra Añejo and will have spent more than 3 years in an oak barrel.
Extra Añejo is your best bet for great tequila.
Round Up
So, what should you do next time you’re drinking tequila? First, find an atmosphere you’re comfortable with. Whether that’s a cosy bar, your living room, or a nightclub, just make sure the vibes are good.
Next, find a tequila that is 100% agave and at the very least a Reposado, but preferably an Extra Añejo. Fill a shot glass and enjoy.
Don’t forget to have some salt and lemon or lime at hand, as this can actually make the experience more enjoyable and is considered a traditional way to consume this intriguing concoction.
The main thing is that you enjoy yourself. Whether you’re drinking tequila in your cocktails or straight from the shot glass, we hope this guide has helped you!