What is the correct way to drink tequila?

¿Cuál es la forma correcta de tomar tequila?

Valeria Angel |

The ritual, the history, and the true art of enjoying tequila

Tequila is not just a spirit; it's an emblem of Mexico, recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Its origins date back to pre-Hispanic times, when the Nahuatl people fermented cooked agave juice. After the arrival of the Spanish, who introduced the distillation process, tequila as we know it was born.
The name comes from the Tequila region of Jalisco, where the volcanic soils and climate created the perfect environment for growing blue agave (the only variety permitted by the Denomination of Origin).

What is the traditional way to drink tequila?

In Mexico, unlike the international perception of "quick shots with salt and lime," tradition dictates that tequila should be enjoyed slowly and in small sips. The best way to appreciate it is in a shot glass or tequila glass, which allows you to perceive its aromas and flavors.

The experts' recommendation is:

  1. Observe its color (white, aged or aged).

  2. Smell gently to perceive notes of agave, wood, citrus or spices.

  3. Taste in small sips, letting the flavor coat your palate.

Tequila can be accompanied with “sangrita,” a mixture of tomato juice, orange juice, and spices, which balances the intensity of the distillate.

👉 For example, try a Don Ramon Plata Tequila to understand what pure elegance means.

Types of tequila and how to enjoy them

  • Tequila Blanco: fresh and pure, ideal for cocktails like margaritas.

  • Reposado: aged for 2 to 12 months, perfect for drinking neat or on the rocks.

  • Añejo: aged for 1 to 3 years, complex and smooth, designed to be savored slowly.

  • Cristalino: Reposado or aged filtered to recover clarity, very popular for its smoothness and premium character.

👉 If you want to experiment with sophistication, explore the Tequila Clase Azul Reposado or a Cosmico Añejo Cristalino Tequila

Tequila in history and culture

In the 19th century, tequila established itself as a national drink and a symbol of Mexican identity. At national holidays, weddings, and celebrations, a bottle is always present to toast important moments. Today, it's also a global ambassador: Mexico exports more than 400 million liters annually, with the United States as the main consumer.

Even international figures such as Oprah Winfrey, Elon Musk, and singers like Justin Timberlake have expressed their fascination with tequila, contributing to its global popularity.

What do experts say about moderation?

Tequila has an alcohol content of between 35% and 55%, so it should be consumed responsibly. Tasters recommend no more than two to three glasses per occasion to fully enjoy the drink without losing its nuances.

Curious facts that surprise you about tequila

  • Tequila can only be produced in five states in Mexico: Jalisco, Guanajuato, Nayarit, Michoacán, and Tamaulipas.

  • The word “tequila” comes from the Nahuatl words tequitl (work) and tlan (place), meaning “workplace.”

  • The world's most expensive tequila, Clase Azul Ultra, has reached prices of up to $30,000 USD per bottle.

Find your perfect bottle at our Tequilas – Vinosylicores.com store and enjoy Mexican tradition with every sip.