Tequila Tuesdays!

Every Tuesday during the month of May we are talking about Tequila!!
What is it? What can you do with it other than shots and margaritas? Will it make you go blind and what kind of tequila has the worm in it?There are two basic categories of Tequila. Some might call them "cheap" or margarita mixer tequilas and then the "good" or shot/sipping worthy.

The "cheap"ones are also referred to as "mixto tequila" these are commonly sold under the brand names of  Jose Cuervo, the los Generales, the Old Mexico brands. These are great for a tequila sunrise, margarita or mixed drink. The legal requirement is that they are made with at least 51% off the blue agave plant.

The sipping or shot tequilas are required to be made from 100% blue agave, nothing additional is allowed to be added. These are sold under the aging terms of Blanco, Reposado or Anjeo. These refer to how long the tequila has been allowed to age. Blanco is bottled right after the distillation, Reposado or "rested" is aged in barrels at least 2 months but no longer than 11 months. Anjeo or "aged" is aged in barrels for at least 12 months but not longer than 3 years. You can find these tequilas under the brand names, Patron's, Milagros, Espolo's, Casamigos etc.

The lower end mixto's start at $10-$12, the premium brands will set you back $45-$55.  Next week we will check out a few of the mixto's. Try them plain and in a few mixed drinks, as well as see how they taste and how much they cost.

If you have a suggestion as to which ones to try, let me know. Here is my email, brandi@wrrv.com