If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Mexico, ditch the Corona and set your sights on a bottle of premium tequila.
High-Quality Tequila
Nothing against other Mexican beverages — it’s just that high-quality tequila technically cannot be made anywhere else on earth than Mexico. That makes it incredibly unique among spirits. It is made from 100% blue Weber agave plant, which is grown exclusively in Mexco’s Jalisco region.
Located on the west coast of the country, Jalisco is the perfect setting for growing blue Weber agave. The dry air, coastal weather patterns, strong sunlight, and terrain allow the blue Weber plant to reach maximum size and sweetness.
As a result, premium tequila sets itself apart from regular tequila with a composition of 100% blue Weber agave. Lower grades may only contain a minimum of 51% agave, with the rest being made up of other sugars.
Tequila became popular in the US during Prohibition when thirsty booze seekers frequently crossed the border to get their hands on some liquor. Though its popularity waned after that, the invention of the margarita in the middle of the century brought it back into our favor.
How Is Premium Tequila Made?
Premium tequila is made using a specific process that involves harvesting and cooking the agave plant, extracting its juice, fermenting it, distilling it, and, in some cases, aging it. Here’s how the brilliant distillers of Jalisco make their tequila:
Harvesting
The blue Weber agave plant takes around 8 to 10 years to mature. At that point, it is ready to be harvested. The leaves of the plant are trimmed off to reveal the piña, which is the heart of the plant that looks like a giant pineapple. This is collected and prepared for cooking.
Cooking
The piñas are then cooked either in the traditional method (using an underground oven called a hornos) or the modern method (steaming the piñas in an autoclave). This process converts the complex carbohydrates in the plant into simple sugars that can be fermented.
Crushing
After cooking, the tender piñas are crushed, and the juice is extracted. The traditional method involves using a tahona, a large stone wheel pulled by a mule, to crush the piñas. The modern method uses a mechanical shredder.
Fermentation
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Distillation
The mosto muerto is then distilled twice in a copper still to create tequila. The first distillation creates a low-proof liquid called ordinario, while the second distillation creates a high-proof tequila.
Aging
Some premium tequilas are aged for a period of time in oak barrels. This process can add flavor and complexity to the tequila and can also soften the harshness of the alcohol. The length of aging can range from a few months to several years.
Bottling
Once the tequila has been aged, it is bottled and labeled according to its type and age. Premium tequilas are usually bottled in high-quality glass and sealed with a cork.
Where Is Premium Tequila Usually Sold?
Plenty of places like to carry tequila, but if you want the primo stuff, you’ll need to narrow down your search a bit. In some cases, the only place you’ll be able to find a certain type of premium tequila is at the distillery itself. However, there’s usually an easier way.
Some premium tequila brands are sold exclusively through specialty liquor stores or online retailers, while others may be available in high-end bars and restaurants. Additionally, some premium tequilas may be available for purchase at duty-free shops in airports or on international flights.
What Are the Top 5 Premium Tequila Brands?
A few premium tequila brands stand out above the rest:
Patrón
Patrón is one of the most recognized premium tequila brands in the world, known for its smooth taste and high quality. It offers a range of tequilas, including its signature silver, reposado, añejo, and extra añejo.
Don Julio
Don Julio is another premium tequila brand that has gained a reputation for its exceptional quality. It offers a range of tequilas, including its blanco, reposado, and añejo.
Clase Azul
Clase Azul is a boutique tequila brand known for its unique handcrafted bottles and exceptional taste. Its tequila is made from 100% organic blue weber agave.
Casa Noble
Casa Noble is a premium tequila brand that has won numerous awards for its taste and quality. Its tequila is made from 100% organic blue agave and is aged in French white oak barrels.
Herradura
Herradura is one of the oldest premium tequila brands, dating back to 1870. It is known for its smooth and complex taste, and its range of tequilas includes its blanco, reposado, and añejo.
Pairing Premium Tequila with Strains
Here are three great strains that pair well with tequila:
Jenny Kush Strain
Charming and medicinal, Jenny Kush is an excellent strain to pair with tequila. Its aromatic profile includes lemon, citrus fruits, strong pine, sweet musk, and gentle florals.
Wedding Cake Strain
As layered and complex as a wedding cake, you’ll get flavors like pepper, spice, and cream — along with a delicious combination of sweet, sour, and zesty. Sugary and delicious, Wedding Cake is fresh out of the bakery and ready to pair with a nice sipping tequila.
Biscotti
We’re cross-pollinating continents and cultures here, but weed is all about cross-pollination! Biscotti is a delightful strain that pays homage to the famous Italian cookie, albeit with a bit of diesel thrown in.
