Tequila Drinks

In this article I will show the different types of Tequilas and what differentiates them. Hopefully this will help you to take your pick when you are standing in front of a shelf of different Tequila liquors and don't know what to choose or when you're not sure about why some Tequilas are much more expensive than others.

First of all, why is Tequila called Tequila? That is because only liquors produced in the Tequila region of Mexico are allowed to carry its name. These liquors must also comply with strict regulations of the Mexican government.

There are two categories of Tequila, which depend on the degree of purity of the sugars used for the fermentation process. "Tequila 100% Agave" is made only from juices which have been obtained from the blue agave plant. These Tequilas must also be bottled at the distillery. "Tequila" only needs to have a minimum of 51% juices from the blue agave. The remainder can be substituted with other sugar juices. Moreover, this kind of Tequila does not have to be bottled in Mexico, but can be transported to different countries to be bottled.

There are 4 types of Tequila, which depend on its age.

Blanco or Silver Tequila is the basic clear Tequila that is bottled straight after distillation. It is characterised by the true flavour and bouquet of the blue agave plant. It is quite strong.

Oro or Gold Tequila is made from Blanco Tequila by adding flavourings like caramel and colourants. As a result it looks more like an aged Tequila drink.

Reposado or Rested Tequila has been aged in oak barrels for at least 2 months and up to 1 year. The oak causes the mellow taste, paler colour and the exquisite bouquet. There has been a steep rise in demand for these Tequilas and hence the prices have sored.

Añeno or Aged Tequila has been aged for one to three years in barrels holding no more than 600 litres. The oak produces the amber colour and a earthy flavour.

Extra-añeno or Extra aged Tequilas have been stored even longer in oak barrels and are therefore even rarer and more expensive.

I hope this list gives you some useful information for choosing your Tequila of choice or finding the perfect Tequila for your favourite Tequila drink.