National Tequila Day took place yesterday, on 24th July. The day may have been and gone, but there’s no reason not to extend the celebrations of the much-loved blue agave-derived drink into this week.
A history of tequila
It is believed that tequila dates back to the times of the indigenous Mexican tribes, around 1000 BC, when the agave plant would be harvested and fermented into a milky drink known as pulque. The distilled alcohol as we know it today was first produced in the 16th century after the Spanish invaded Mexico and began distilling agave and calling it mezcal wine. The area of Mexico in which the liquor is produced did not become officially known as Tequila until 1666, and it can now be found in the state of Jalisco. In 1795, the world’s leading tequila brand was first established by Don Jose Antonio de Cuervo.
How tequila is made
The process of making tequila begins with the heart of the agave plant being extracted when it is approximately 12 years old. In order to extract the sap, the heart is heated up and then shredded. Following this, the sap is fermented and then the liquid distilled to form the tequila, which is then aged.
Tequila Sunrise
Tequila Sunrise is a classic summer cocktail you can serve up in engraved glassware to add style to any occasion. To make this drink, first add grenadine to a tall glass, and then, in a shaker, mix up the tequila with ice, fruit juice and triple sec. Strain into the glass on top of the grenadine and add more ice.
Enjoy your favourite tequila drinks this summer either at home or out and about.
