Mexican tequila is simply called “Tequila”. However, there are certain regulations and requirements that must be met in order for a spirit to be legally called Tequila. These regulations ensure that the spirit is produced in a specific region of Mexico and follows certain production methods.
To be called Tequila, the spirit must come from one of five authorized states in Mexico: Guanajuato, Jalisco, Michoacan, Nayarit, or Tamaulipas. These states have been designated as the official regions for Tequila production. Each state has its own unique terroir and climate, which can influence the flavor of the final product.
If a spirit is produced outside of these five states, it cannot be labeled as Tequila. Instead, it must be called an “Agave Spirit” or Mezcal. Mezcal is another type of Mexican spirit that is made from the agave plant, but it is produced using different techniques and can come from various regions in Mexico.
The regulations for Tequila production also specify that the spirit must be made from the blue agave plant. The blue agave is a specific variety of agave that is well-suited for Tequila production. It takes several years for the blue agave plant to mature and develop the sugars needed for fermentation.
Once the blue agave plants are harvested, they are typically cooked to convert the starches into fermentable sugars. This cooking process can vary depending on the distillery, but it often involves steaming or roasting the agave hearts, known as piñas. The cooked piñas are then crushed to extract the juice, which is fermented and distilled to produce Tequila.
There are different types of Tequila, including blanco (unaged), reposado (aged for a short period), and añejo (aged for a longer period). The aging process can add complexity and depth to the flavor profile of the Tequila.
Personally, I have had the opportunity to visit a Tequila distillery in Jalisco, Mexico. It was fascinating to see the agave fields stretching out before me, knowing that these plants would eventually be transformed into the iconic spirit. The distillery tour provided insights into the traditional production methods and the care that goes into crafting high-quality Tequila.
Mexican Tequila is called Tequila and it must come from one of the authorized states in Mexico. The use of specific agave plants, production methods, and aging processes all contribute to the unique flavor profile of Tequila. It's a spirit that holds a special place in Mexican culture and is enjoyed around the world.