What Is Tequila?
Tequila is a distilled spirit made from the blue agave plant, primarily produced in the region surrounding Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico. Known for its bold character, smooth finish, and cultural significance, tequila is both a versatile cocktail base and a sophisticated sipping spirit.
Types of Tequila
Tequila is categorized based on aging, which significantly affects its flavor profile:
-
Blanco (Silver) – Unaged or aged for up to 2 months. Crisp, fresh, and great for cocktails like margaritas.
-
Reposado – Aged 2 to 12 months in oak barrels. Smoother than blanco, with light notes of oak and vanilla.
-
Añejo – Aged 1 to 3 years. Rich, complex flavors with deep oak, caramel, and spice tones.
-
Extra Añejo – Aged over 3 years. Luxurious, smooth, and perfect for sipping.
-
Cristalino – Añejo or Extra Añejo filtered to remove color while retaining flavor, offering a clear, elegant spirit.
How Tequila Is Made
-
Harvesting: Blue agave plants are grown for 6–8 years before harvesting.
-
Cooking: The piñas (agave hearts) are roasted to convert starches into sugars.
-
Extraction & Fermentation: The cooked agave is crushed and fermented with yeast.
-
Distillation: The fermented liquid is distilled, typically twice, for purity.
-
Aging: Depending on the type, the tequila is either bottled immediately or aged in barrels.
How to Enjoy Tequila
-
Neat: Sip premium Reposado, Añejo, or Extra Añejo to appreciate the craftsmanship.
-
On the Rocks: A smooth option for those who prefer a chilled experience.
-
Cocktails: Try it in classics like:
-
Margarita: Tequila, lime juice, triple sec.
-
Paloma: Tequila, grapefruit soda, lime.
-
Tequila Sunrise: Tequila, orange juice, grenadine.
-
Tequila vs. Mezcal
While all tequila is a type of mezcal, not all mezcal is tequila. Mezcal can be made from various agave species and is often characterized by its smokier profile, due to underground roasting.
Shop Premium Tequila
Looking for authentic tequila in the Philippines? Browse our curated collection at winesndrinks.com — from smooth Blancos to rich Extra Añejos. We offer trusted brands, competitive prices, and nationwide delivery.
Final Tip
When buying tequila, look for “100% agave” on the label to ensure purity. Avoid mixtos (blends with sugar-based spirits) for the best flavor and quality.