If you partake in this shot/drink . Make sure to have a designated driver . Now for another Tequila sunrise .
NATIONAL TEQUILA DAY
On July 24th, commemorate National Tequila Day with a little lime and salt. Mix up a Margarita, Paloma or a Mamasita to celebrate the day!
Tequila has been made for centuries. It once was known as mezcal wine. In fact, tequila is mezcal, but mezcal isn’t tequila. That’s because tequila is distilled from a specific type of agave plant. Also, the law protects its production. Take a sip and we’ll travel into tequila’s history.
Tequila History
It all started around the 16th century. Cortez arrived on the North American continent with his Spanish conquistadors. They didn’t care much for the fermented mezcal wine served to them. However, the Spanish introduced copper stills to the population. Enter the distilling process.
Now, our story takes us to Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico. Located in a valley west of Guadalajara in Jalisco, Mexico, the town made a name for themselves by distilling Blue Agave. Even though a variety of succulents in Mexico produce mezcal, only one produces the nectar to distill tequila. Blue Agave grows in the highland region. Indeed, the unique growing conditions contribute to a larger size and sweeter tasting agave. In contrast, agave grown in the lowland regions taste and smell more herbal.
In Mexico, the law protects the production of tequila. The rule states tequila is only tequila if it is made within Jalisco. Additionally, the law limits production to regions in the states of Guanajuato, Michoacan, Nayarit, and Tamaulipas. However, the same ingredients distilled anywhere else cannot be labeled tequila.
Interestingly, many names in the tequila business today were the very first commercial producers of tequila. For example, Jose’Antonio Cuervo held the first license for making the favored beverage. He kept a well-known company, too. Two other names include Don Cenobio Sauza and Félix López, whose businesses continue in some form today.
Equally enjoyed in cocktails such as the margarita or tequila sunrise, connoisseurs savor a good tequila like a good whiskey. As a result, savvy drinkers experience the smooth renaissance of Tequila. Surprisingly, it’s not the firewater they remember from their youth.
HOW TO OBSERVE
While cooking up fajitas mix a drink for you and your friends. Try margaritas or a new cocktail. Make a celebration out of your meal. (Remember always to drink responsibly and never drink and drive). Post on social media using #NationalTequilaDay.
HISTORY
We were unable to identify the origin of National Tequila Day. I am sure they are passed out somewhere !