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It's too bad that for way too many folks, their early experience with "mixto" tequilas like Cuervo Gold colors their attitude towards this fine liquor for the rest of their lives. It's understandable, though. The cheap tequilas are repulsive, having all the charm of lighter fluid. No wonder college kids have to hold their noses and take a shot with salt and a wedge of lemon.
The true, 100% agave tequila is a wonderful spirit, with a complex, sweet flavor and none of the harsh gagging characteristics of the bottom shelf offerings.
Earlier this week, I picked up a bottle of Don Julio Blanco, and it's superb. Another recent purchase was Cavalino Reposado, also very smooth and flavorful.
It's a liquor I have tried on several occasions, but found the fuss way overblown. It's ok, but nothing I consider special, other than the fact that it is rather unique. I don't actively seek it out, as I have a couple bottles in the cabinet that have remained opened but nearly untouched for about 2 years. It's something I keep on hand more for guests rather than for myself.
I also wonder why people claim it makes for a particular uncontrollable drunk. IMHO, I think that's more placebo than substance. I downed four consecutive shots when I was about 22, and it didn't make for a unique or otherwise notable buzz. I think folks just consume more of it at a time than they would other liquors and get hammered. You know, exactly what would have happened if they drank the same amount of any 40 proof liquor.
Those with unfavorable tequila experiences have most likely been exposed to the mixto (mixed) crap that's not even legal to sell in Mexico but sits on the shelves of just about every liquor store in the USA.
IMPORTANT: look at the label.
If it doesn't clearly and specifically say "100% Blue Agave" or "100% Agave Azul" then forget it. It's mixto. And that means it's only 51% tequila and 49% aqaurdiente - a cheap sugar cane distillate that's responsible for the petroleum flavor and hangovers. American bottlers add that bottom of the barrel swill to lower the price and in crease profit margins at your expense. Garbage like Cuervo Gold (Especial) is an example. Avoid it. Or the junk in plastic 1.75L jugs with brand names like Montezuma, Tequila Rose, Arandas, Topaz, Aristocrat, Tortilla, etc. Good, real tequila doesn't come in plastic jugs. That said, be aware that some companies that market garbage (Jose Cuervo and Sauza, in particular) also have some excellent 100% agave products that are well worth buying.
Save your taste buds, brain cells, and stomach by reading the label.
You'll be glad you did. No more need to slam a shot and bite a lemon wedge to avoid the gawd-awful kerosene taste.
Quality tequila tastes great and is much easier on you. You can savor the flavor and sip it, enjoying every drop. And the morning after will be SO much better.
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Any Tequila Fans?
Advice from an old timer
