What is Tequila and Where Does it Come From?
Tequila is a spirit distilled from the agave plant, a succulent native to Mexico. It is made from the blue agave plant, and it is the only spirit that can be called tequila. The process of making tequila is long and laborious. The agave is harvested and the hearts, or piñas, are cooked. The juice is then extracted and fermented, and the resulting liquid is distilled. The distilled tequila is then aged, usually in oak barrels. Aging helps to bring out the flavor and smooth out the tequila.
Tequila has been made in Mexico for hundreds of years, and it is an important part of the culture. It has become popular around the world and is now one of the most popular spirits. Tequila has many different varieties, from blanco (unaged) to añejo (aged). It is commonly used in cocktails, such as the margarita, and is also enjoyed neat or on the rocks.
What Makes Tequila Top Shelf?
Tequila is often divided into categories based on the aging process. Blanco tequila is unaged, and is often used for mixing. Reposado tequila is aged for two to eleven months in oak barrels, and is often used for sipping. Añejo tequila is aged for at least one year, and is often used for sipping. Extra Añejo tequila is aged for at least three years and is often used as a special occasion drink. The longer the tequila is aged, the smoother and more complex the flavor.
When it comes to top shelf tequila, the aging process is key. Extra Añejo tequila is usually considered the best, as it has the most complex flavor and is the smoothest. Many experts recommend avoiding blanco tequila, as it can be harsh and may not have the best flavor. The best tequilas are made with 100% blue agave, as this will ensure the best flavor.
The Best Tequilas of 2023
With so many tequilas to choose from, it can be hard to choose the best. We’ve put together a list of the top shelf tequilas of 2023, to help you choose the best tequila for your needs. All of these tequilas are 100% blue agave, and are sure to impress.
Don Julio 1942
Don Julio 1942 is an extra Añejo tequila, and is one of the most popular tequilas in the world. It is aged for at least two and a half years, and is smooth and complex. It has notes of oak, caramel, and vanilla, and is perfect for sipping. It is a bit pricey, but is worth it for a special occasion.
Patrón Añejo
Patrón Añejo is a popular Añejo tequila, and is made from 100% blue agave. It is aged for at least twelve months, and has notes of oak, vanilla, and caramel. It is smooth and has a rich flavor, making it perfect for sipping or for cocktails. It is also relatively affordable, making it a great choice.
Herradura Reposado
Herradura Reposado is a reposado tequila, and is aged for at least eleven months. It has notes of oak, vanilla, and caramel, and is smooth and flavorful. It is great for sipping or for cocktails, and is relatively affordable. It is also one of the most popular reposado tequilas on the market.
Casa Noble Crystal
Casa Noble Crystal is a blanco tequila, and is made from 100% blue agave. It is unaged and has a smooth, sweet flavor. It is perfect for mixing, and is a great choice for cocktails. It is also relatively affordable, making it a great choice for budget-conscious drinkers.
Gran Centenario Leyenda
Gran Centenario Leyenda is an extra Añejo tequila, and is aged for at least three years. It has notes of oak, caramel, and vanilla, and is perfect for sipping. It is a bit pricey, but is worth it for a special occasion. It is also one of the most popular extra Añejo tequilas on the market.
Conclusion
Tequila is one of the most popular spirits in the world, and there are many different varieties to choose from. When it comes to top shelf tequila, extra Añejo tequila is usually considered the best. We’ve put together a list of the best tequilas of 2023, to help you choose the best tequila for your needs. All of these tequilas are 100% blue agave, and are sure to impress. Cheers!