Tequila is much more than just a party shot or a mixer for margaritas. When you drink good tequila the right way, it becomes a rich, flavorful experience that celebrates tradition, craftsmanship, and the unique character of the blue agave plant. If you’ve been wondering how do you drink good tequila to truly appreciate it, this guide is for you. Let’s explore the best ways to enjoy this iconic Mexican spirit with a friendly, easy-to-follow approach.
Understanding Good Tequila
Before diving into how to drink tequila, it’s helpful to know what makes tequila “good.” Authentic tequila is made from 100% blue agave and produced in specific regions of Mexico, primarily Jalisco. The best tequilas smell and taste like cooked agave – sweet, earthy, and natural – rather than artificial flavors like cotton candy or processed sugar.
Good tequila also has a rich, luxurious mouthfeel that coats your palate rather than feeling thin or harsh. The production method matters too; traditional cooking of agave in hornos (ovens) is considered superior to quicker, industrial methods.
The Best Way to Drink Good Tequila
1. Sip It Neat to Appreciate the Craft
The most straightforward and rewarding way to drink good tequila is neat – that means no ice, no mixers, no salt or lime chasers. Pour a small amount into a proper glass and sip slowly. This method lets you experience the full range of flavors and aromas the distiller intended.
– Use a tequila flute or a champagne flute if you don’t have one. These glasses concentrate the aromas and enhance the tasting experience.
– Pour about 1 to 1.5 ounces at room temperature (around 69-70°F). Avoid chilling tequila as cold temperatures can dull its subtle flavors.
– Swirl gently to observe the “legs” – droplets running down the glass sides – which indicate its body and aging.
– Inhale deeply before sipping to catch floral, citrus, oak, or agave notes.
– Take a small sip and let it coat your entire palate before swallowing. Notice the layers of sweetness, spice, or smooth finish.
Sipping good tequila neat is like tasting a fine whiskey or cognac. It’s about savoring the complexity and craftsmanship, not rushing through it.
2. Try It With a Splash of Water or Ice (Optional)
While purists prefer neat, some enjoy a tiny splash of water or a single large ice cube to open up the flavors slightly. If you do this, add water sparingly and avoid too much ice to prevent numbing your taste buds.
3. Explore Classic Cocktails That Highlight Tequila
Good tequila can also shine in cocktails that complement rather than mask its flavor. Some popular options include:
– Margarita: The classic mix of tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur.
– Paloma: Tequila with grapefruit soda, lime, and a touch of sweetness.
– Tequila Old Fashioned: Using añejo tequila for a smooth, spicy twist on the whiskey classic.
– Tequila Negroni or Highball: For those who like something more adventurous, these cocktails let you enjoy tequila’s character in a balanced way.
4. Avoid the Salt and Lime Ritual for Premium Tequilas
The traditional salt-lime-shot ritual is mostly for lower-quality tequilas or party shots. For sipping good tequila, skip the salt and lime. Let the tequila speak for itself.
Tips for a Better Tequila Experience
– Choose quality over quantity: Pick tequilas labeled 100% blue agave and research distilleries that use traditional methods.
– Use the right glass: Avoid shot glasses. Flutes or rocks glasses work best to appreciate aroma and flavor nuances.
– Drink at room temperature: This preserves the tequila’s full flavor profile.
– Take your time: Savor each sip slowly to explore the layers of taste and aroma.
– Pair with food: Tequila pairs wonderfully with Mexican cuisine and can enhance the dining experience.
Why Drink Good Tequila This Way?
Drinking tequila properly transforms it from a quick buzz to a refined experience that honors the spirit’s heritage and craftsmanship. It’s about appreciating years of tradition, the hard work of agave farmers, and the artistry of distillers. When you sip good tequila neat, you unlock a world of flavors that too often go unnoticed in shots or sugary cocktails.
Enjoying tequila slowly also makes it more enjoyable and less harsh, allowing you to truly connect with the spirit and the moment.
Good tequila deserves respect, and drinking it thoughtfully is the best way to show it.
Enjoy your next glass of tequila with care and curiosity – you’ll discover a whole new side to this classic spirit. Cheers!