Tequila – the spirit of Mexico – is experiencing a global renaissance. Gone are the days of sugary shots and questionable choices. Today's tequila drinkers are discerning, seeking high-quality expressions that showcase the agave's unique flavor profile.
If you're looking to elevate your bar's tequila selection and cater to these enthusiasts, look no further! Drawing on expert insights from T-Time Tequila, here are 9 recommendations across three categories – Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo – that will tantalize even the most seasoned palates.
Blanco (Un-aged or Silver):
Ocho Plata: This highly-rated tequila from Tequila Ocho uses estate-grown agave and a traditional tahona stone mill, resulting in a bright, grassy expression with hints of citrus and pepper. (Recommended by Tequila Matchmaker)
Fortaleza Blanco: Crafted in Jalisco by Guillermo Sauza Sr., a fourth-generation tequila maker, Fortaleza Blanco boasts a rich history and a clean, agave-forward flavor profile with hints of minerality and spice. (Recommended by T-Time Tequila)
Lalo Blanco: A favorite among bartenders for its exceptional quality and value, Lalo Blanco offers a well-rounded blanco experience with notes of citrus, pepper, and a subtle sweetness. Its versatility makes it perfect for sipping neat or in classic cocktails. (Recommended by Tequila.com)
Reposado (Aged 2-12 months):
El Tesoro Reposado:Â Aged in ex-bourbon barrels for six to eight months, El Tesoro Reposado delivers a smooth and complex taste with hints of vanilla, caramel, and cooked agave. (Recommended by Tequila Matchmaker)
Codigo 1530 Reposado:Â This award-winning tequila uses a unique slow-cooking process for the agave hearts, followed by aging in ex-French Oak barrels. The result is a rich and flavorful reposado with notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and dried fruit. (Recommended by T-Time Tequila)
Siete Leguas Reposado:Â Aged in recycled ex-Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey barrels, Siete Leguas Reposado offers a unique flavor profile with hints of smoke, caramel, and spice, alongside the classic agave notes. (Recommended by Tequila Matchmaker)
Añejo (Aged Over 1 year):
Santo Fino Añejo: Crafted by the legendary tequila maker Guillermo Sauza Sr., Santo Fino Añejo is aged for a minimum of three and a half years in ex-American bourbon barrels. This añejo is known for its smooth, complex flavor profile with notes of vanilla, oak, dried fruit, and a touch of spice. (Recommended by Diffords Guide)
Clase Azul Añejo: This tequila takes luxury to a new level. Aged in both ex-bourbon and ex-Sherry casks, Clase Azul Añejo boasts a rich and complex flavor with notes of chocolate, nuts, dried fruit, and a hint of smoke. The hand-blown decanter adds a touch of elegance. (Recommended by Tequila Matchmaker)
Fortaleza Añejo: Aged for 18 months in ex-bourbon barrels, Fortaleza Añejo is a masterclass in Añejo tequila. This expression offers a smooth and rich flavor profile with notes of vanilla, caramel, dried fruit, and a touch of spice, while still retaining the agave's character. (Recommended by Tequila.com)
Beyond the Bottle:
Remember, a great tequila selection is just one piece of the puzzle. Invest in proper glassware (tequila neat glasses or copitas for sipping) and educate your staff on the different types of tequila and their flavor profiles. Consider offering tasting flights or hosting educational events to further engage your tequila-loving patrons.
By offering a diverse range of high-quality tequilas and fostering a welcoming and knowledgeable atmosphere, your bar can become a haven for tequila enthusiasts!
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