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Tequila

Tequila is made from the blue agave plant which looks like a cactus but is a member of the lily family. For the spirit to be considered tequila it must be distilled primarily — no less than 51% — from the fermented juice of the blue agave. Tequilas derived from 100% blue agave are considered the best quality. Mixto tequilas make up the difference with non-agave sugars, usually from sugar cane. Tequila doesn't have a worm in it - that would be mezcal.

Where it's made: Tequila is a spirit unique to Mexico and for a spirit to be called tequila it must be produced solely in government-defined regions located principally in the province of Jalisco known as the "mountain of fire."

The varieties: Blanco (white or silver) tequila is unaged and bottled just after distillation. Joven (gold) tequila is created either using unaged tequila and adding coloring and flavoring to soften the flavor or by blending white tequila with other aged or extra-aged tequilas. Resposado (aged) tequila is aged for at least two months in oak barrels or casks. The tequila takes on color and flavor from the wood. Añejo (extra-aged) tequila is aged in barrels not larger than 600 liters for at least a year. The effect of the wood on the color, taste and aroma is more pronounced. Curados tequilas are seasoned with natural fruit flavors.

What does it do? The effects of tequila are legendary. It is considered a fail-safe elixir to get a party going, a suggestive spirit that relaxes inhibitions and the source of too many hangovers. Hangovers can be avoided by drinking lots of water and mixing with 100% blue agave tequila, which must be distilled at least twice for purity. Overall tequila adds kick and bite to a cocktail. Blanco and gold tequila have the most agressive profile, with a very earthy flavor. Aged tequilas are often described as mild and peppery.

How to mix it? Blanco and mixto tequila is most often enjoyed as a shooter with salt and lime. In a cocktail, it is blended with a sweet fruit liqueur or juice. Aged tequila should be sipped and served in a brandy snifter or rocks glass. When served with a meal it is often chased with the mexican Sangrita.

Where to buy it? Widely available in the United States and internationally. Look for the "100% Blue Agave" designation. Prices range from $8 to upward of $100 a bottle.

Questions about tequila? E-mail us.

Top Ten
Tequila Drinks
1. Tequila Shot
2. Margarita
3. Tequila Sunrise
4. Tequila Mockingbird
5. Ruby Rita
6. Brave Bull
7. Tiajuana Sling
8. Psycho Tsunami
9. Shady Lady
10. Bird of Paradise

Top
Tequila Links
1. Ian Chadwick's Tequila
2. Vive Tequila
3. Collection of Don Rafael
4. Tequila Aficionado
5. The Tequila Movie
6. Tequila Express

Classic Tequila Cocktails
1. Tequila Stinger
2. Tequila Collins
3. 1960s Margarita
4. Tequila Toddy
5. Tequonic
6. Acapulco
7. Tequini
8. Tequila Sour
9. Mexicola
10. Tequila Swizzle

Top Ten
Tequila Brands
1. Don Julio
2. Cabo Wabo
3. Chinaco
4. Patron
5. El Tesoro Anejo
6. Alcatraz
7 El Conquistador
8. El Tesoro
9. Herradura
10. Cuervo