As a sommelier and brewer, I must clarify that the presence of a worm in Monte Alban tequila is a common misconception. In fact, Monte Alban tequila does not contain a worm. This belief stems from the association of worms with certain types of mezcal, not tequila. Mezcal is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant, much like tequila, but with some key differences in production methods and regional variations.
To understand the origin of the worm in mezcal, we need to delve into the history of this unique tradition. It is widely believed that the practice of adding a worm to a bottle of mezcal dates back to pre-Hispanic times when the indigenous Zapotec people inhabited the region of Oaxaca, Mexico. These worms, known as “gusano de maguey” in Spanish, are actually the larvae of the Hypopta agavis moth, which infests the agave plants.
According to legend, the presence of the worm was considered a sign of the mezcal's authenticity and quality. It was believed that the worm absorbed some of the spirit's flavors and imparted them back into the mezcal, enhancing its taste. Additionally, it was thought to possess certain mystical properties, such as acting as a natural aphrodisiac or even as a hallucinogenic substance. These supposed qualities added to the allure and mystique surrounding the tradition.
However, it is important to note that this “tradition” of adding a worm was actually fabricated in the 1940s as a clever marketing ploy to distinguish certain mezcals on the shelf. Mezcal producers began placing worms in their bottles to attract attention and create a unique selling point for their products. This tactic proved successful, and over time, the association between worms and mezcal became firmly entrenched in popular culture.
Despite its origins as a marketing strategy, the practice of adding a worm to mezcal has persisted and has become deeply ingrained in the industry. Today, many mezcal brands proudly display worms in their bottles, emphasizing their authenticity and connection to tradition. It is worth noting, however, that not all mezcals contain a worm, and the presence of a worm does not necessarily indicate the quality or authenticity of the spirit.
In the case of Monte Alban tequila, which is a type of tequila and not mezcal, there is no tradition or requirement to include a worm. Tequila is made specifically from the blue agave plant in designated regions of Mexico, primarily Jalisco and parts of a few other states. The production and regulations surrounding tequila are distinct from those of mezcal.
The presence of a worm in Monte Alban tequila is simply a misconception. This tradition is associated with certain types of mezcal, not tequila. While the practice of adding a worm to mezcal bottles may have been a marketing strategy, it has become deeply ingrained in the mezcal industry and is still seen today. However, it is important to remember that the presence of a worm does not indicate the quality or authenticity of the spirit.