Olmeca Altos Plata Tequila 70cl

Tequila is a distilled alcoholic spirit made primarily from the blue agave plant. It is produced mainly in the region surrounding the city of Tequila in the Mexican state of Jalisco, along with a few other approved regions of Mexico.

To be legally called tequila, the spirit must be made in Mexico using specific production methods and must contain at least 51% blue agave sugars.

Tequila is made from the blue Weber agave plant, a succulent that grows mainly in the volcanic soils of western Mexico. The heart of the plant, called the piña, is harvested, cooked and fermented before distillation.

The sugars from the agave are converted into alcohol during fermentation and then distilled to produce tequila.

Authentic tequila must be produced in specific regions of Mexico, mainly in the state of Jalisco and a few surrounding areas. These regions are legally protected under Mexican law and international agreements.

Tequila produced outside these designated regions cannot legally be labelled as tequila.

Most tequila is bottled at around 38% to 40% alcohol by volume. Some special releases, such as cask strength or premium bottlings, may have a higher alcohol content.

Like most spirits, tequila is usually sipped slowly or mixed into cocktails rather than consumed quickly.

Tequila often has distinctive flavours of cooked agave, citrus, pepper and herbs. The exact taste depends on the production process, the region where the agave was grown and how long the tequila has been aged.

Older tequilas that have been aged in oak barrels can also develop notes of vanilla, caramel and spice.

The main tequila categories include Blanco, Reposado, Añejo and Extra Añejo. Blanco tequila is typically unaged and has bright agave flavours.

Reposado and Añejo tequilas are aged in oak barrels for longer periods, giving them richer flavours and a darker colour.

Blanco tequila, sometimes called silver tequila, is usually bottled shortly after distillation without significant ageing in oak. This style highlights the natural flavours of the agave plant.

It is often used in cocktails such as margaritas but can also be enjoyed neat.

Reposado tequila is aged in oak barrels for at least two months but less than one year. The ageing process softens the spirit and adds subtle flavours from the wood.

Reposado tequilas often show notes of vanilla, spice and light caramel alongside the agave character.

Añejo tequila is aged in oak barrels for at least one year but less than three years. The extended ageing gives the tequila a deeper colour and more complex flavours.

These tequilas are often smoother and richer, with notes of oak, vanilla and dried fruit.

Extra Añejo tequila is aged for more than three years in oak barrels. This long ageing period creates very rich and complex flavours.

Extra Añejo tequilas are usually considered premium sipping spirits similar to well-aged whisky or cognac.

Both tequila and mezcal are Mexican spirits made from agave, but they are produced in different regions and often from different agave varieties.

Mezcal typically has a smokier flavour because the agave is traditionally roasted in underground pits before fermentation.

Tequila labelled as 100% agave is made entirely from sugars derived from the blue agave plant. These tequilas are usually considered higher quality.

Tequila labelled simply as tequila may contain at least 51% agave sugars with the remainder coming from other sources.

High quality tequila is often sipped neat in a small glass to appreciate its flavour and aroma. It may also be served with a slice of orange and a pinch of salt in some traditional styles.

Tequila is also widely used in cocktails such as the margarita and tequila sunrise.

Tequila is a key ingredient in several popular cocktails including the margarita, tequila sunrise and paloma.

Its citrus and herbal flavours pair particularly well with lime, grapefruit and other fresh ingredients.

Tequila does not spoil like wine because of its high alcohol content. However exposure to air over long periods can gradually reduce its aroma and flavour.

Keeping the bottle tightly sealed and stored away from heat and sunlight helps maintain its quality.

An unopened bottle of tequila can last for many years if stored in a cool and dark place. The spirit does not continue ageing once it is bottled.

Once opened it can still remain enjoyable for several years if the bottle is sealed properly.

Premium tequila can be expensive because agave plants take many years to mature before they can be harvested. The production process is also labour intensive.

Long ageing periods, limited production and premium packaging can also increase the price.

Yes, tequila made from 100% agave is naturally gluten free because it is distilled from the agave plant rather than grains.

However some mixed drinks or flavoured products may contain additional ingredients, so it is always best to check the label.

Tequila pairs well with foods that have bright or spicy flavours such as Mexican cuisine, grilled meats and citrus-based dishes.

The fresh agave notes also complement seafood, tacos and dishes with lime or chilli.

The famous worm is actually associated with some bottles of mezcal rather than tequila. Traditional tequila does not contain a worm.

The practice began as a marketing novelty and is not part of authentic tequila production.