This July 24th we’re all about raising a glass for National Tequila Day! Did you know that the drink is part of a rather fascinating myth? It is said that a lightning bolt struck an agave plant, cooking and opening it, releasing its juice and for this reason, the liquid has been dubbed the “elixir of the gods”.


In 1519, Hernan Cortes, a Spanish conquistador, invaded Mexico and conquered the Aztec Empire, claiming Mexico for Spain. The Spanish had brought a supply of liquor with them, but when this ran out, they began to look for substitutes. It was here they were introduced to pulque and other drinks based on the agave plant. They began experimenting with distillation techniques they had known since the eighth century, which resulted in North America’s first native, refined spirit. 


Today, there are more than 100 distilleries in Mexico that make more than 900 different types of premium tequila (and approximately 2,000 new types have been registered with the Mexican government to date), much to the delight of spirit sippers and margarita lovers. Even George Clooney has invested in his own brand of tequila: Casamigos.


So, grab some salt and lime, cook up some tacos, sopes, pozole or other Mexican-themed dishes and celebrate National Tequila Day with some of the recommendations we have listed below for you to enjoy. Salud!


Need to brush up on your tequila knowledge? Then be sure to read our Basic Guide to Tequila & Mezcal! 



 

  1. Zignum Silver Mezcal


A fantastic, un-aged Mezcal which works well for cocktails. Delicate hints of citrus fruits. The original citric and grassy flavour of the green agave espadín has been well preserved. A good entry point for those curious about mezcal! Well suited to cocktails that need the brightness of tequila but with the subtle smokiness prevalent in mezcal.


ABV: 40% | €47.95




2. Tapatio Blanco


Distilled in the Los Altos distillery which is owned by Carlos Camarena. It was originally founded in 1937 by his grandfather Don Felipe and many of the traditional methods have been retained. This blanco tequila is packed full of agave flavours and is rated as one of the top examples available. Lots of citrus fruit flavours with a peppery bite along with green/minty herbal notes. A versatile Tequila that mixes very well.


ABV: 40% | €44.00


 


3. Jose Cuervo Tradicional Reposado Gold


Reputed to be the first tequila distilled by the Cuervo family. This reposado is rested for six months in oak casks and represents a significant step up in quality from the standard Cuervo releases. Slightly oily mouthfeel, and flavours of roasted agave, pineapple, oak, and white pepper. Only a limited number are produced each year.


ABV: 40% | €35.99


 

4. Patron Anejo

A super-premium Tequila that is made in small batches from Blue Weber agave. An unusual mix of French, Hungarian and American oak barrels are used for the ageing process which takes over 12 months. Holds wonderful notes of oak wood, vanilla, raisin, and honey. This anejo is a fine sipping tequila but also makes an impressive Margarita.


ABV: 40% | €83.99




5. El Jimador Reposado


Mexico's bestselling tequila, and for good reason. A great value for money reposado that has been aged for 2 months in oak barrels. Stunningly smooth with notes of cooked agave, vanilla and caramel sweetness. Lots of warm flavours overall with a confident agave flavour that isn’t afraid to shine.


ABV: 38% | €40.00


 


6. 1800 Blanco


 Made from 100% Weber blue agave — aged for 8-12 years and harvested at their peak. Essentially an un-aged tequila, although this is given a quick 15 days of maturation to smooth out any rough edges. Named after the year in which tequila was first successfully aged in wood. The clean, balanced taste offers hints of sweet fruit and pepper. Ideal for making a superior quality Margarita.


ABV: 40% | €44.99


 

7. Don Julio Anejo


Made in smaller batches than the other standard Don Julio tequilas. This anejo is aged for 14 months in American white oak barrels. Smooth and rich tasting, with the perfect balance between flavours of vanilla, agave, and oak. It deserves to be tasted straight or over just a little ice.


ABV: 38% | €66.00



8. Cabo Wabo Anejo


A brand that was famously founded by rock singer Sammy Hagar as a means to enjoy a house tequila for his cantina in Cabo San Lucas. Cabo Wabo is now owned by Campari and is distilled from agave that are around 8-12 years old. This anejo is aged for 14 months in oak casks before bottling. Golden straw colour. Offers flavours of banana meringue pie, honey roasted nuts, and sugar snap peas with a silky, bright, dry-yet-fruity medium body and a tingling, delightful, breezy finish.


ABV: 40% | €78.00




9. El Espolon Reposado 


A good quality reposado that has been aged for three to five months in light charred new American white oak after being distilled in both pot and column stills. Bold, round palate, medium to full bodied with a rich roasted agave; sweet tropical fruit, vanilla, brown spices, and a long spicy finish. This one begs to be shared in cocktails that deserve even greater tequila character.


ABV: 40% | €48.00



 

10. Clase Azul Plata


Clase Azul Plata is made from Tequilana Weber Blue Agave in the small Mexican town of Santa Maria Canchesda. Over 100 artisans dedicate their time to creating each unique bottle one at a time. Offers a delightfully smooth flavour with a pleasant hint of sweetness - perfect to drink neat or in your favourite cocktail.


ABV: 40% | €125.00


We hope you enjoyed our blog post and are able to find the perfect drink to celebrate National Tequila Day. You can find our full range of tequila and mezcal on Irish Drink Shop. And if you still can’t find that perfect drink, then be sure to contact us and we’ll be delighted to assist!


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