It may be daunting when choosing a tequila that you’ll enjoy, but don’t be deterred by the terminology. Everyone knows there are so many aspects that can make your head spin, such as: the age, the region, blanco, anejo, reposando, the smoothness, and of course the overall taste. No one wants to commit to choosing a tequila that they’re not sure if they’ll enjoy or not. We at Limon y Sal have compiled some things you should know when choosing a tequila.
Choosing a good Tequila
It’s usually not the one they use in bars to mix cocktails with. When choosing a tequila you want a sipping Tequila that’s smooth and flavorful (it still makes great cocktails!). As with all taste things, there’s no single best Tequila, but you can make sure it’s a good Tequila you’re drinking, so follow our hints:
Choose a Pure Tequila
If you want to make sure you’re having a good Tequila, the key is to always choose a bottle that clearly says 100% agave or 100% blue agave. Otherwise there are additives which will only mess up the flavor and add to your hangover in the morning.
Know where your Tequila choice is from
Most Tequila is produced in Jalisco which is in Western Mexico. But Tequila can still be made in a few other states; Michoacãn, Guanajuato, Nayarit, and Tamaulipas. You will rarely see bottles from outside of Jalisco but when you do, they tend to be pretty good so it’s worth taking a chance on them as your odds are strong for having found an especially good Tequila.
Choosing a Tequila Reposado vs. Blanco - What Tequila to Choose?
Tequilas are broken down into classes depending on how old they are and how much time they have been stored in wooden barrels. Older = more expensive, but not always a better choice. They all have different flavors and can be used for different situations.
Choosing a Reposado Tequila
These are aged in wood barrels from 2-12 months tend to be mellower versions of blancos, not that directly alcoholic with something else going on in the bottle. A lot of people love reposados because they’re slightly mysterious and pick up flavor notes from the wood while not overwhelmingly so. Some aficionados will definitely disagree but reposados can be excellent additions to cocktails exactly because of this complexity.
Choosing a Añejo Tequila
This is a Tequila that is aged in wood barrels between one and three years. These are fairly soft, round, and mouthfuls of flavor savored sip by sip. Many drinkers who love blancos aren’t that excited by añejo Tequilas exactly because they prefer leaner flavors and mouth feels. Many who love añejos tend not to like the flavor of a Gin, Tequila, or Grappa. Generally añejos aren’t good for mixing in a cocktail and benefit from slowly sipping in a snifter or fluted glass that magnify the scents and flavors.
Here at Limon y Sal in Ventura, all of are staff are versed in educating and recommending a tequila that will suit your taste.