Tequila

Tequila is a Mexican liquor distilled from the fermented juices obtained from the hearts of blue agave plants grown in the Tequila Region. The liquor gets its name from the town of Tequila located in the state of Jalisco. Tequila production started more than 200 years ago.

The blue agave (agave azul tequilana weber) has long bluish green spiny leaves with sharp points and a large heart (called piña or pineapple) from which the juices are extracted and then distilled twice. One liter of distilled tequila can require between 6 and 8 kilos of agave pulp.

Tequila can only be produced in Mexico, in the Tequila Region, and must comply with strict Mexican government regulations. Tequila is produced in two general categories and four different types in three of those categories. The two categories are defined by the percentage of juices coming from the blue agave:

Tequila 100% Agave. Must be made with 100% blue agave juices and must be bottled at the distillery in Mexico. It may be Blanco, Reposado, or Añejo.cocktails ever.
The NOM standard defines four types of tequila:

Blanco or Silver
This is the traditional tequila. It is clear and transparent, fresh from the still tequila is called Blanco (white or silver) and must be bottled immediately after the distillation process. It has the true bouquet and flavor of the blue agave.
Oro or Gold
Is tequila Blanco mellowed by the addition of colorants and flavorings usuallt caramel . It is the tequila of choice for frozen Margaritas.

Reposado or Rested
It is Blanco that has been kept (or rested) in white oak casks or vats called "pipones" for more than two months and up to one year. Because of the oak barrels Reposado has a mellowed taste and pale color.

Añejo or Aged
It is Blanco tequila aged in white oak casks for more than a year.The amber color and woody flavor are picked up from the oak, and the oxidation that takes place through the porous wood develops the unique bouquet and taste.

Reserva
Although not a category in itself, it is a special Añejo that certain distillers keep in oak casks for up to 8 years. Reserva enters the big leagues of liquor both in taste and in price.