Did You Know There Are Different Types of Tequila?
This month, we are learning all about tequila. You may know what it is. Tequila means different things to different people. It is a spirit that’s easily enjoyed in many situations. Although we are familiar with this alcohol and its uses, did you know there are different types? Where does it come from? How is it made?
El Mariachi offers a delicious selection of margaritas, tequila, and more at our authentic Mexican restaurant in Parkersburg, WV. We want our customers to be able to fully experience our authentic Mexican atmosphere. This is why we want to share with you the world of tequila this month. Continue reading to learn more about the types of the drink, its origins, and more.
Learn More About the History of This Drink
Tequila has a long and eventful history. Beginning around 1000 B.C., Mesoamerica’s earliest civilizations used to ferment vats of “pulque,” a drink made of agave sap. Centuries later, Spanish conquistadors introduced the copper pot still. They then would ferment the agave juice. This led to the invention of “mezcal,” where tequila originates from. The Spaniards then built distilleries in the city of Tequila, which is in the current Mexican state of Jalisco.
Americans first saw this drink at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893. Smugglers brought varieties to the United States from Mexico during Prohibition. By the 1950s, tequila had made its way into the mainstream. It was popular enough to inspire the number one hit song “Tequila” by The Champs. Americans began choosing this alcohol for their chosen spirit more and more by the 1970s. Since then, it has become more popular year after year. In 2019, Americans consumed 19.88 million nine-liter cases of tequila, according to Statista.
Created by Blue Weber Agave Plants
To make tequila, you must distill it from the juice of Blue Weber agave plants. These agave plants take about eight to 12 years to fully mature. Farmers harvest agave plants by cutting away the sharp outer leaves to obtain the heart, or “piña,” of the agave. This can weigh between 80 and 200 pounds! Distilleries then bake or steam the piñas, turning their starch into fermentable sugar. This sugar goes through a milling machine to remove pulp from the sweet juice, before going into a fermentation tank. Then comes the addition of yeast, which eats the sugar, resulting in a substance that’s left to condense and liquify. The juice is then distilled two to three times, resulting in blanco tequila. This is its purest form.
Silver vs. Gold: What is the Difference?
Silver tequila is clear in color. The gold option is an amber/caramel color that can range in shades of light and dark. The biggest difference between the two types of is how long they age. This gives tequila a difference in both color and flavor.
Immediately after distilling, distilleries bottle silver tequila and it can age for a maximum of two months. It distills in stainless steel tanks, which prevents it from changing or acquiring any color. Silver tequila is strong and harsh. This is why people use lemon or lime to neutralize in it drinks or shots. Distilleries distill gold tequila in barrels. These barrels are what give the tequila its golden color. However, some brands can add coloring to give the appearance of the authentic gold shade. The length of time spent in the barrels makes the shade of amber/gold vary. A longer amount of time in the barrels results in a darker shade.
The Answer is In: The Best Tequila for Margaritas is…
You may be wondering what tequila is best for margaritas. It really boils down to your personal preference. Try out both gold and silver types and decide which would be best in your margarita. However, mixologists and tequila experts agree that there is an overall better choice for margaritas.
Silver or white is the winner for margaritas. Since silver tequila ages for the shortest amount of time, it has a stronger and purer taste. The strong taste can cut through other fruity or sweet flavorings that you’re adding to your margarita. Using the silver option in margaritas will allow you to get a pure taste that mixes well with other flavorings.
As far as the gold type, you may find that you enjoy sipping on it rather than diluting it into mixed drinks. This option tends to have a more unique flavor profile that is worth taking the time to enjoy.
Discover the World of Tequila at El Mariachi in Parkersburg, WV
At El Mariachi in Parkersburg, WV, discover your favorite tequila with a delicious, authentic Mexican meal. We have a wide variety to choose from along with a delicious range of margarita flavors. We always use fresh ingredients to serve the best Mexican cuisine and margaritas anywhere in the Mid-Ohio Valley. Check out our menu for our wide variety of authentic Mexican food. Make your reservations today. If you’re feeling like staying home, order online. Make a margarita at home using some of our best tips and advice. Whenever you want the best authentic Mexican cuisine or experience, you can rely on El Mariachi.
Want more information on our menu of authentic Mexican cuisine or our delicious margaritas, to place your reservation, or to order takeout? Call us today at (304) 420-9005. Remember to like El Mariachi on Facebook to stay informed with updates and specials! El Mariachi in Parkersburg, WV, is the Mid-Ohio Valley’s destination for learning all about tequila.