A few years ago, the big divide was between low-quality mixto cut with other fermentable sugars and 100% agave tequilas. Exports of the latter have now exceeded the former in the United States, reflecting a real interest in quality tequila. Also, the growth in the tequila market has driven industrialization.
The younger crowd prefer mixto (blended) because it is cheaper than 100% agave, but it can leave you with a nasty pile of regret in the morning. Here are the reasons why you should choose 100% agave when drinking your tequila.
- No Hidden Surprises
The 100% agave tequila is pure agave. On the other hand, mixto contains up to 49% non-agave ingredients. The mixto generally consist of sugar cane or other distillable products, and can also include additives such as colorings and flavorings.
What's worse is that it is not mandatory for mixto producer to tell what they use. So, if you want to know what you are drinking, always choose 100% agave.
- Better Taste
There are more quality tequilas than before. Each 100% agave tequila brand has a unique flavor profile which creates a vast array of great-tasting tequila. Even though the species of agave used has to be the Blue Weber, the location of the distillery can affect its flavor in significant ways.
- No hangovers
With only 51% agave, mixto tequilas contain a wide range of ingredients, including many distillates. That means you consume more than one type of alcohol at the same time, and that is the reason mixto tequila has earned such a bad reputation.
Now let's take a look at the top 3 types of Tequilas.
- The Blanco
- Appearance: Crystal clear and colorless.
- Aroma: At first, there is a very light alcohol vapor, followed by fennel, black pepper, eucalyptus, and lime zest.
- Taste: Starts of slow with some herbal notes upfront.
- Age: 2 months in American Oak.
- Verdict: The Blanco is very light and easy to drink; no harshness.
- The Reposado
- Appearance: Pale golden color.
- Aroma: It smells soft and creamy on the nose with nougat, vanilla, powdered sugar, and eucalyptus.
- Taste: A bit more viscous than the Blanco. At the end, a subtle smokiness shows up.
- Age: 7 months in American Oak.
- Verdict: Reposado also has no harshness, but it has a bit more flavor variability when compared to the Blanco.
- The Añejo
- Appearance: Pale rose gold color.
- Aroma: There are more agave notes than the other two. You can get some tobacco notes along with some honey sweetness.
- Taste: Very creamy with a lot of vanilla and sweet taboo. The flavors go from vanilla to lightly peppery in the middle and end with some sweet tobacco and honey lingering in the aftertaste.
- Age: 14 months in American Oak
- Verdict: The peppery bit and agave flavors make this spirit uniquely delicious.
Whether you prefer the spicy, earthy or fruity taste, there is the 100% agave tequila out there for you. The premium tequilas are superior in both taste and quality.