Did it ever occur to you that tequila has a distinct taste that other spirits don’t really match—a taste that is tempting enough to savor in sips rather than sinking a few shots? And if you’ve been told that tequila is meant for shots by a friend or a magazine, sadly, they have got it all wrong.
You can enjoy tequila how you like. However, tequila is steeped in culture and tradition more than anything else and is made to be sipped, savored, and celebrated. Gulping down a few shots with salt and lime can be fun, but making it a habit could deprive you of the authentic taste of the spirit.
Crafting tequila (excluding mixto tequila, which contains external sugar and is barely agave), especially infused tequila, takes plenty of time and diligence. It is known for its complex flavor profiles and unique aromas. These pure spirits are created from blue agave plants, which take about 8-12 years to produce the elixir. So, tequila deserves to be enjoyed.
Neat is the Best First Sip
Enjoy it on the rocks or take shots, but the best way to experience the authenticity of the spirit is to sip it neat, especially if you are trying a product or brand for the first time. It will allow you to appreciate the sensory spectrum of the drink. Just pour a glass at room temperature without ice or mixers.
So, why sip tequila neat?
● First, it is a way to respect the traditions and artistry of the production process.
● Second, neat sips allow you to enjoy the rich complexity of flavors, textures, and aromas.
Want to experience tequila sipping like a pro? Try these:
Hold the glass to a light source and observe the spirit’s texture and color. Unless you’re trying the Tequila Travesuras Blanco, which is a crystal clear spirit, others will sport different tones of gold, amber, or brown. Do you have a glass of additive-free tequila in your hand? The intensity of the color will indicate the barrel type and maturation duration.
Take in the aroma by smelling the spirit. Tilt the glass to its side and bring your nose right above the lower rim—you should be able to smell the subtle notes. Gently inhale through your nose or mouth while moving the glass to different positions to notice the intricate flavors.
Now, take a sip. The first sip can do wonders if you do it right. Swish the first sip and let it coat your mouth before you swallow it. This step allows priming your taste buds and prepares it for the drink. The next sip should be swallowed over the full length of your tongue. During this process, you will notice the different parts of your taste buds capture vibrant notes of the spirit, ending with a smooth, warming sensation in the throat, unlike the harsh, burning effect of a tequila shot.
Best Glassware to Sip Tequila
A stemmed flute glass could be the perfect way to enjoy sipping your tequila. These glasses are narrow and long and designed to elevate the spirit’s aromatic bouquet toward your senses. The stem ensures that your hand’s temperature does not play with the drink’s. These glasses are also a great tool to swirl the tequila.
As flute glasses emphasize the spirit’s characteristics, you will grow a deeper appreciation for the natural flavors and deeper aromas that come from agave. It’s the biggest reason most tasters, blenders, distillers, and even judges in competitions prefer this glassware.
The Ending Note
There is no hard and fast rule to drink tequila. The best way is the one you enjoy the most—sometimes, the occasion demands a specific style too. If the party is too wild and you want a finisher, a tequila shot just might do the trick. If you’re in a chilled-out gathering with a glass of tequila sweet and sour mix, sipping would be the perfect way to explore the flavors and treat your palate.
Cheers!
Must Read: 5 Drinks You Shouldn’t Mix with Tequila
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