Imagine: it’s your friend’s birthday and the person is a tequila lover. You walk into the liquor store, but don’t know the alcoholic inside you. What do you do then? You see rows of tequila bottles, each with a different label, color, or price tag. You don’t want to choose any bottle for your friend. In such situations, dear reader, we are with you! Often we find ourselves in such situations, when we try to navigate the world of alcohol without a map. Tequila that comes from Mexico is loved by people because of its versatility. But with so many options in the market, how do you choose a high-quality tequila? If you can relate to this situation, read on to learn some important steps to choosing a tequila, whether it’s for you or your friend!
Also read: Is tequila good for health? Know why it is considered good for health
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Here are 5 key steps to choosing a good quality tequila bottle:
1. Understand the types of tequila
This is the most basic step when choosing a tequila. Tequila comes in many varieties, so understanding which variety does what can make your job easier. Here are some common types:
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Blanco (Silver)
Blanco is the purest form of tequila. It is clear and has a very strong taste because it is either made in small quantities or aged for less than two months. It is like raw tequila and is perfect for making cocktails or shots.
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Reposado
This type of tequila is aged in oak barrels for two months to a year. It tastes mild and has a slight oak aroma, making it great for drinking or mixing into drinks.
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Anejo
Añejo is typically aged for one to three years, so its flavor is richer and more complex. If your friend likes to drink wine, añejo is a great choice.
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Extra Añejo
As the name suggests, Extra Añejo has been aged for more than three years. Its flavor is extremely rich and complex and is perfect for those who like strong alcohol in their lives.
2. Don’t miss the “100% agave” sign
Typically, tequila comes from Mexico where the agave plant is abundant. For those who don’t know, agave is a succulent plant that is the main ingredient in making tequila. Therefore, your bottle of tequila must have a “100% agave” label. Make sure to scan the bottle thoroughly to find this mark. This is because many bottles are also labeled “mixto” which contains up to 49% non-agave sugars as fillers. This kind of tequila will make your drinking experience unpleasant and also give you a nasty hangover. So, buy a bottle that only says “100% agave”.
3. Analyze the bottle
We’ve all been taught not to judge a book by its cover. However, when choosing a tequila, you may go against your principles. High-quality tequila brands often indulge in nice packaging. A sleek, well-designed bottle can indicate how much care and attention has been put into the product inside. Look for bottles that feel solid, solid and have a cork or lid. But be sure not to judge the tequila by the bottle alone.
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4. Know your friend’s preferences
Since you are gifting your friend a bottle of tequila, make sure you know their preferences. If you know your friend loves a good margarita, maybe get them a high-quality blanco or reposado. If they like to drink more, get an añejo or extra añejo. However, if you are still unsure, don’t hesitate to ask for suggestions at a good liquor store. The staff there can guide you based on your friend’s preferences.
5. Do some research
Finally, do your homework before buying tequila. Remember, the internet is your friend, that’s why you’re here! Check out reviews and ratings from tequila enthusiasts and experts. There are many apps and forums dedicated to liquor and spirits where you can find detailed reviews and ratings.
Also read: 5 refreshing tequila-based cocktails to brighten up your weekend
Are there any other aspects to keep in mind when choosing a tequila? Let us know in the comments below!