What Is Tequila Made From?

When you ask what tequila is made from, there really is just one answer: the blue agave plant. Learn more about the star of this spirited show at Pascale's Wine and Liquors, 105 Towne Drive, Fayetteville, NY 13066. You may also call (315) 355-6222 or visit our website at https://pascaleswineandliquors.com/ to take advantage of our delivery services.

Is Tequila Made Of Cactus?

Close but not quite. The blue agave is a succulent, a close relative of the cactus but is an entirely different plant. Fun fact, cacti are actually a specific subset of succulents belonging to a specific plant family which, in nuanced definition means, that all cacti are succulents but not all succulents are cacti.

The Blue Agave

As mentioned, the blue agave is a succulent. It’s native to Mexico and is cultivated primarily in designated agave fields, primarily in the "tequila region" of Jalisco, Mexico. There are over 200 known species of the agave family, however, only the blue agave is legally allowed to be used in the production of tequila, a process that’s heavily regulated by the Mexican government.

One of its most distinctive features is the blue-green tinge where its name comes from. As for its flavor profile, the blue agave is prized for its unique offerings which includes notes of sweetness, earthiness, and herbal complexity. This distinctive flavor profile lays the foundation for the defining characteristics of tequila.

Tequila For The Health Conscious Drinker

A health conscious imbiber will wonder if tequila is actually a good choice of liquor and the short answer is yes. First of all, tequila is lower in calories compared to most other alcoholic beverages at just 97 calories per shot of about 1.5 ounces. Secondly, since it's made from 100% blue agave (a sugar substitute), its got no added sugars making it an ideal drink for those who are monitoring their sugar levels.

The plant itself contains compounds that promote healthy gut bacteria which makes the blue agave a good digestive aid. Additionally, some studies suggest that agave fructans (a type of sugar found in agave) has the potential to enhance calcium absorption making it good for the bones.

That said, it should still be remembered that tequila is an alcoholic drink and as with all alcoholic beverages, moderation is still key. With balance and moderation though, tequila has all the makings of a healthy addition to any diet.

Are All Tequilas Made From Agave?

Yes, all tequilas are made from the agave plant, specifically the blue agave - the heart and soul of tequila. These plants are harvested and processed to reveal only the piña - the only part of the blue agave that’s actually used in making the tequila. It’s by roasting the piña and extracting the juice called aguamiel that the foundations of tequila are formed.

The piña is then roasted to convert the carbohydrates found in the blue agave into fermentable sugars and from there, the juice known as aguamiel is extracted. Aguamiel is then poured into tanks and combined with yeast where it’s left to ferment and it is in this stage that the agave is transformed into alcohol.

The Types of Tequila

There are three main types of tequila: the blanco, the añejo, and the reposado, each with its own unique character and palate.

Blanco Tequila

Also known as silver or white tequila, the blanco is bottled immediately after distillation and does not undergo any aging process. It is known for its fresh and vibrant flavors.

What is this tequila made from? This tequila is made from 100% blue agave grown in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico.
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Try: Cazcanes No. 7 Blanco Tequila - known for its smoothness and purity, with a crisp, clean flavor profile and subtle hints of agave sweetness, this is perfect for sipping neat or elevating your favorite cocktails.

Reposado Tequila

The reposado is aged in wooden barrels for a minimum of two months, which gives it a smoother and more complex taste than that of the straightforward blanco.

What is this tequila made from? This tequila is made from 100% organic Weber blue agave likewise grown in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico

Try: Clase Azul Reposado Tequila - a renowned Mexican spirit known for its exquisite craftsmanship and exceptional quality, this tequila is handcrafted in small batches using traditional methods. With its smooth texture and luxurious taste, Clase Azul Reposado is perfect for sipping on special occasions or enjoying in premium cocktails.

Añejo Tequila

Aged between one to three years in oak barrels, this more robust aging process results in a darker color compared to blanco and reposado tequilas and infuses the añejo with a rich and smooth flavor profile.

What is this tequila made from? It's distilled from 100% blue agave again grown in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico

Try: Artenom Seleccion De 1146 Anejo Tequila 100 De Agave Azul - this añejo tequila undergoes an aging process of at least one year in oak barrels, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile. With notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice, Artenom Seleccion de 1146 Añejo offers a smooth and sophisticated taste experience, making it perfect for savoring neat or in premium cocktails.

Give Tequila A Shot!

Pascale’s Wine & Liquors in Fayetteville, NY houses a great selection of tequilas. From the pricier premium brands as the products mentioned above to the more budget-friendly options, if you're looking to indulge in a bottle, drop by at Pascale's Wine and Liquors, 105 Towne Drive, Fayetteville, NY 13066. You may also call (315) 355-6222 or visit our website at https://pascaleswineandliquors.com/ to take advantage of our delivery services.