“Not many people are aware how complex and unique tequila is because
of the fact that it's associated with kids and parties and that sort
of thing,” Jose Cuervo brand ambassador Rene Valdez says. It's time,
then, to start drinking tequila like an adult. Here's what you need to
know.Choose the right glassware
Put the shot glasses down. Not only is shooting tequila (or anything,
for that matter) boorish, but drinking tequila slowly from a shot
glass also cheapens the experience. “It's a glass that doesn't allow
you to experience the full complexity,” Valdez says. You'll just end up
compressing the aromas. If you're serious about tequila, consider
picking up a set of long-stemmed Riedel tequila glasses. Cuervo's master
distillers were consulted in their design, Valdez says. Failing that, a
white wine glass, as opposed to a snifter, is the best choice.Look at the color
Regardless of what expression of tequila you're drinking, whether it's an unaged blanco, gold, reposado, anejo, or extra anejo, the latter of which are aged in wood for varying periods of time, you're going to be able to pick out the differences by eyeballing them right off the bat. You can also tell if it's a 100% blue agave tequila, which all quality brands will be, based on the quality of the liquid. In tequilas mixed with neutral spirits, you'll often be able to pick out imperfections that point to a lower-quality distillation process. Familiarize yourself with the consistency of the liquid at hand as well. Tequilas that have been aged longer will have a heavier, thicker body.
Savor the aroma
"Starting with a bit of a neutral spirit, like vodka, is even better. It's like doing stretches for your tongue's impending work out."
Taste it slowly
Take a small sip first to get your palate used to the alcohol. Starting with a bit of a neutral spirit, like vodka, is even better. It's like doing stretches for your tongue's impending workout. Next, take the tequila onto your tongue and try to hit all of the flavor receptors -- salty, bitter, sweet, and so on. “It helps to keep some liquid in your mouth,” Valdez says. “Breathe with your mouth open with the liquid in your mouth.” Finally, of course, swallow it for the back-end notes that will emerge.
Compare and contrast styles
The best way to learn about any type of spirit is to do side-by-side tastings of different styles. With tequila, start with a blanco, then progress toward a reposado and on to anejos, moving from youngest to oldest.
“When I come across someone who says 'I don't like tequila,' I think, you haven't taken the time,” Valdez says. “Do a tequila flight, and you're able to experience and do the tasting through different expressions and find something you'd enjoy, and be able to appreciate the complexities that each expression will bring.”
It's easier to pick out tasting notes with wine because the common fruit profiles are things that people are familiar with. It's harder with tequila, Valdez says, because not many people are accustomed to the taste of cooked agave. Since tequilas vary so much in flavor and aroma, there are no hard and fast tasting rules, but there are a few common traits you'll find. Blancos tend toward the peppery side, with citrus, agave and herbs being the focal point. Reposados take on the presence of the wood, and you'll start to detect oak and vanilla, perhaps olive. With anejos and extra anejos, the wood is more assertive, and common traits tend to be cinnamon, caramel, chocolate, and coffee. You might even detect banana, avocado or dry nuts.
