![]() © 2012 Zislis Group. All rights reserved.Privacy Policy | Careers | Drasin Design, Inc. | Louis Skelton & Associates The Essence of MéxicoTequila is North America's first distilled spirit, and has been produced in México since shortly after the Spanish conquered the country in the early 1500s. To be classified as tequila, it must be made from no less than 51% Weber blue agave. Better and high-end tequilas are made from 100% Weber blue agave. Today's fine tequilas are highly coveted by collectors worldwide—for both the smooth aromatic liquor and the handcrafted decorative bottle. México's tequila producers, almost all located in a one hundred-mile radius of the town of Tequila in Jalisco State, distill hundreds of brands, some the old way—in small lots in tiny family-run fabricas—most in ultra-modern distilleries. As of November 24, 2008, there are 129 registered tequila distilleries producing 898 certified brands. Tequila “Blanco” or “Silver”Clear, un-aged tequila is normally bottled right after being distilled. When the clear white tequila drips from the cooling coils of the alambique, it is correctly called silver or plata, but is more commonly called white or blanco. Tequila “Reposado” (Rested or Aged)The first definitive level of aging is termed reposado or rested and mandates that the tequila remain in wood for a period of 2 months but no longer than 12 months. This is a requirement of the Mexican government. Each distillery has its own preference for the type of barrel used in aging. Some of the most common are made from French oak or White oak. The type of barrel used and the resins along with tannins exuded have a dramatic impact on the finished product and produce the subtle nuances that distinguish one tequila from another. Tequila “Añejo” (Extra Aged or Vintage)The next level of aging is the añejo tequilas. Añejo can only appear on bottles that contain tequila, aged in oak barrels having a maximum capacity of 600 liters, a minimum of 1 year. A year of resting in a cool bodega produces a smoother and more sophisticated taste. American whiskey barrels, French oak casks, or cognac barrels, are commonly used to age this tequila. Añejos are typically aged between 1 and 3 years. They are darker in color, more complex in flavor and smoother than reposado tequilas. Tequila “Extra Añejo” (Ultra-Aged)Ultra-aged or Extra Añejo tequila has been aged for a period of at least 3 years, without specifying the aging time in the label, in direct contact with the wood of Holm oak or Encino oak containers with a maximum capacity of 600 liters. Flight Tastings
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