Tequila Tasting -
Creating the right tasting format
When pairing a spirit with food one must consider what we are trying to achieve: Stimulate the appetite, add flavor and refresh the palate. We also want to complement the food with the spirit, properly.

First, Tequila is an 80 Proof/40% alcohol spirit, and like most spirits is not typically consumed as a complement to food, as beer or wine would be. Suggest consuming “neat” at the beginning and at the end of the meal with Tequila cocktails during the meal.

In Mexico, Tequila is savored as an aperitif: Before dinner to help stimulate the appetite; typically enjoyed with sharp Mexican cheese or Pico de Gallo: select fruit & veggies spiked with dried chile and fresh lime & salt. You may have any combination of appetizers as suits your taste. Recommend a Blanco/Silver or Reposado Tequila to start.

As an after dinner “Digestivo” to aid digestion and cleanse the palate. Recommend a fine Añejo.

Straight Tequila best complements a hearty soup or stew, such as Pozole, Menudo or a Seafood Stew. Recommend Blanco or Reposado.

To best enjoy and complement your dining experience, prepare Tequila as a short cocktail (8 – 10 oz Cocktail glass); such as a Margarita, Tequila & Tonic, Tequila lemonade/Up, or Tequila and Coke or Sprite, Squirt, etc. Always with a sweet or citrus element added. Click here to learn about the History of Tequila.