How to Drink Tequila with Olmeca Altos
Drinking tequila is almost a ritual, and doing it the right way guarantees a much more rewarding experience. From the careful selection process to the appreciation of its nuances, flavors and aromas, in this article, we will guide you through the essential steps to fully enjoy this emblematic drink to the culture and flavor of Mexico.
Guide: How to properly drink tequila
The selection of tequila:
Choosing a quality bottle of tequila, is fundamental. The best tequilas are usually made from 100% pure agave and aged in oak barrels, which gives them a smoother, more complex flavor. Look for labels that indicate “100% agave” on the bottle to make sure you are getting the best. We encourage you to discover with Olmeca Altos our most exquisite selection of tequilas.
- Tequila Blanco: Also known as “silver”, it is fresh and pure, perfect for cocktails such as margaritas. Its flavor highlights the agave.
- Tequila Reposado: Aged in oak barrels for months, it has a smoother flavor with hints of vanilla and caramel.
- Tequila Añejo: It has a more complex and robust flavor with notes of wood, chocolate and nuts.
Choosing the right glass:
The choice of glass is crucial to appreciating tequila. Glasses are designed to concentrate the aromas and allow for a more precise tasting. Olmeca Altos offers a range of expertly selected glasses that enhance the experience of each variety of tequila and take your experience to the next level.
Concentrates the aromas: Tequila glasses are usually smaller and narrower at the top, which helps concentrate the aromas of tequila. This allows you to more accurately smell the aromatic notes, which are essential for flavor appreciation.
Facilitates tasting: Glasses designed specifically for tequila are often shaped to allow you to take small sips, which makes tasting easier and prevents you from drinking too fast. This helps you savor and fully enjoy each sip.
Highlights the flavor: The shape of the glass can influence how the tequila reaches different parts of your mouth, allowing the flavors to develop optimally on your palate.
The ideal temperature:
To serve and enjoy tequila, the temperature can vary according to personal preference and type of tequila, but generally it is suggested that:
- Tequila Blanco: Serve at a temperature of 0-5°C (32-41°F) or slightly chilled. This brings out the fresh flavors and crisp agaves typical of these types of tequila.
- Tequila Reposado and Añejo: Served at room temperature or slightly chilled, around 20°C (68°F). These tequilas are more complex and benefit from tasting at a warmer temperature, which allows them to release their aromas and flavors more easily.
Contemplate tequila:
Pour a moderate amount of tequila into the glass. Hold the glass, trying to avoid heating the liquid with the heat of your hands. Observe its color and clarity; aged tequilas tend to have golden tones, while whites are more transparent. Tilt the glass slightly toward a white or neutral background to better appreciate the color and any signs of sediment or suspended particles. This first visual glance will give you clues as to the quality and aging process of the tequila you are about to taste. The presence of suspended particles may be an indication of less than careful production or lack of proper filtration.
Appreciate aroma, sip and savor:
Aromas can range from fruity and floral notes to hints of vanilla and wood, depending on the type of tequila. Take your time to identify and enjoy the aromatic nuances. Start by enjoying a small sip and allow the tequila to coat your palate. Savor each sip, moving it throughout your mouth to capture the different range of flavors that may include citrus, spices, cooked agave and more.
Why Olmeca Altos?
By following the steps to drink tequila correctly, we have discovered that this drink is much more than just a liquor. It is a sensory experience that connects us to the land and history of Mexico. Tequila is a drink that transcends cultural and geographic barriers. It is an authentic expression of Mexico’s passion and commitment to craftsmanship and tradition. So the next time you hold a glass of tequila in your hands, remember our tips from Olmeca Altos. Here’s to the art of enjoying tequila.
