Tequila Primer

The sun is shining on tequila, especially in southern California. According to The Los Angeles Times, tequila bars are the new wine bars. Choices abound, with some bars offering 350 varieties of tequila ranging in prices from $10 to $175 a shot. Here’s a short primer to get you up to speed on the nuances.

Tequila is split into two categories—100% Blue Agave and Tequila Mixto (mixed). Mixto Tequila is called “mixed” because it is made from a minimum of 51% Blue Agave and the remaining 49% from other sugars. The more refined tequila is made from 100% Blue Agave. You’ll be able to tell them apart from the label, which will say "Tequila 100% de agave" or "Tequila 100% puro de agave." All other Mixto Tequilas will only read "Tequila." Within those two categories, you’ll choose among Blanco-Silver, Reposado, Anejo, Extra Anejo, Mixto and Flavored. Obviously, the higher-quality tequilas are not meant to go down quickly with a lemon and some salt. Sipping allows the flavors to reveal themselves. Check out a website like tequilla.net to learn more. --Denise Shoukas

Denise Shoukas is a regular foodspring.com contributor and is the author of foodspring’s food forager blog.