Beyond Margaritas: A beginner’s guide to understanding tequila

Brody Wooddell
·6 min read

TAMPA (BLOOM) – Let’s take a journey back in time. No, not to your last tequila-induced adventure, but to where it all began. Born in the heart of Mexico, tequila’s tale starts with the Aztecs, who probably never imagined their ritual beverage would one day become a global party staple. From ancient rituals to modern-day celebrations, tequila has come a long way, baby!

The ABCs of Tequila: Agave and Beyond

The heart of tequila beats in the blue agave plant, a spiky-leaved wonder that’s more than just a pretty face in the Mexican countryside. The magic happens in regions like Jalisco – think of it as the Napa Valley of tequila. Here’s the process in a nutshell: harvest, cook, ferment, distill, and, for those with the virtue of patience, age. And just like in high school, tequila comes in different types – Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, and Extra Añejo. Each one brings its own personality to the party.

Tequila Varieties: A Guide for the Curious Beginner

Tequila, much like a complex character in a novel, comes in various expressions, each with its own story and flavor profile. For those new to the world of tequila, understanding these varieties is key to appreciating this spirited beverage. Here’s a brief but detailed guide to the most common types of tequila: Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo.

Blanco (or Silver) Tequila

  • Characteristics: Blanco, also known as Silver tequila, is the purest form of agave spirit. It’s bottled immediately after distillation, or aged for up to two months in stainless steel or neutral oak barrels.

  • Flavor Profile: Expect a bright, clean taste with the true essence of agave. Blanco tequilas often exhibit fresh, peppery, and herbal notes, making them vibrant and somewhat punchy.

  • Ideal For: Blanco is perfect for those who appreciate a spirit in its unaltered state. It’s also the go-to for classic tequila cocktails like margaritas, where its crisp agave flavor shines through.

Reposado Tequila

  • Characteristics: Reposado means ‘rested’. This tequila is aged in wood barrels for anywhere between two months to a year. This resting period allows the tequila to mellow and take on subtle influences from the wood.

  • Flavor Profile: Reposado strikes a beautiful balance between the agave and the oak. It’s smoother than a Blanco, with a slight sweetness and hints of vanilla, caramel, and spice. The oak aging adds a gentle complexity.

  • Ideal For: This is for those who enjoy a softer, more nuanced spirit. Reposado tequilas are versatile, excellent for sipping neat, or in cocktails where you want a smoother, oak-tinged flavor.

Añejo Tequila

  • Characteristics: Añejo, meaning ‘aged’, is matured in barrels for one to three years. This longer aging process transforms the spirit significantly.

  • Flavor Profile: Añejos are rich and complex. Expect a deeper, richer profile with pronounced caramel, vanilla, and spice notes, often with a silky, smooth finish. The longer aging brings out sweetness and woody notes, making it akin to a fine bourbon or cognac.

  • Ideal For: Añejo is perfect for the connoisseur who appreciates depth and complexity. It’s typically savored neat or on the rocks to truly enjoy its intricate flavors.

Each type of tequila offers a unique experience. Blanco brings the unadulterated essence of agave, Reposado introduces a harmonious balance with a touch of oak, and Añejo delivers a sophisticated, rich complexity. Understanding these varieties opens up a world of flavors, perfect for exploring the rich tapestry of tequila. Whether you’re shaking up a cocktail or sipping it slowly, there’s a tequila variety that’s sure to enhance your experience.

In the Spotlight: Tequila Brands Worth Knowing

Let’s give a shoutout to some tequila superstars. 1800 Tequila is like that friend who’s always dressed to impress, with a range from the approachable Silver to the suave Extra Añejo. And Southbound Tequila? They’re the cool new kid on the block, winning hearts with their unique approach and smooth taste.

1800 Tequila: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

1800 Tequila, named after the year the world first witnessed aged tequila, has deep roots in tradition. It’s produced by the Beckmann family, who also owns the renowned Jose Cuervo tequila. This connection to tequila royalty gives 1800 an impressive lineage, steeped in history and expertise.

Varieties on Offer:

  • Blanco: Unaged and bottled straight after distillation, this variant is like the James Dean of tequila – young, brash, and with a certain smoothness.

  • Reposado: “Reposado” means rested, and this tequila takes a little siesta in oak barrels for six months, gaining complexity and a golden hue.

  • Añejo: Aged for at least a year, this one is smoother, with a caramel complexion and a more sophisticated profile.

  • Milenio: The granddaddy of the lineup, extra aged, offering a tequila experience akin to a fine scotch or cognac.

  • Cristalino: A newer addition, this is an añejo tequila that has been filtered to remove the color, offering a smooth, sophisticated, and surprisingly clear spirit.

  • Cucumber Jalapeño: A daring and innovative blend, this variety infuses the crispness of cucumber with the spicy kick of jalapeño, creating a refreshing and unique tequila experience.

  • Coconut: A unique flavored twist, combining tequila with natural coconut flavor, perfect for those tropical-themed parties or when you’re feeling a little nutty.

1800 Tequila balances its historical heritage with modern flair, offering something for every tequila enthusiast

Follow 1800 on Instagram: @1800tequila

Southbound Tequila: The New Kid on the Block

New tequila brand ‘Southbound’ launches in Florida and Tennessee

Southbound Tequila may be the newer kid on the agave block, but it’s quickly making a name for itself. It’s a brand that embodies the spirit of adventure, inspired by travels and a passion for high-quality tequila. Southbound distinguishes itself with a focus on craft and character, appealing to both tequila novices and aficionados. The brand was created by co-founders Ivey Childers, Ryan Santi, and Austin Sherman in 2023.

Varieties on Offer:

  • Blanco: Crisp, clean, and unaged, the Blanco is like a fresh start – pure and unadulterated, capturing the essence of the agave plant.

  • Reposado: Aged over 2 months in Tennessee Whiskey Barrels with tasting notes of cooked agave, subtle wood tones, and light chocolate.

  • Añejo: For a richer, more mellow experience, the Añejo is aged longer, resulting in a tequila that’s smooth with a hint of vanilla and spice – a true testament to the art of aging.

If you’re looking for recipe ideas, Southbound has plenty on their youtube channel.

Southbound Tequila brings a fresh perspective to the traditional world of tequila, combining quality with a spirit of adventure.

Tequila: Enjoy Responsibly

Now, a word to the wise: tequila is to be enjoyed, not regretted the morning after. Sip it, savor it, and always remember – a good tequila is like a good friend, best enjoyed in moderation.

Tequila isn’t just a drink; it’s a journey. A journey from the heart of Mexico to your glass, filled with history, flavor, and a little bit of magic. So, raise your glass (responsibly) to tequila, a spirit that’s much more than just a party fuel.

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