Everything You Wanted to Know About Tequila

Tequila is one of the most popular liquors, but it does have a reputation for hangovers and causing many “oops!” moments. But here’s your chance to be the life of the party and educate everyone on what they’ve been sipping at dinner or shooting back using this handy guide about tequila.

Tequila is made from the blue agave plant and was first produced near the town of Tequila in the Mexican state of Jalisco in the 16th century. Mexican law dictates that tequila can only be produced in the state of Jalisco, with some production being allowed in regions of the states of Michoacán, Nayarit, Guanajuato, and Tamaulipas. Tequilas are made from the core of the blue agave, which is called the “piña.” It is steamed and then distilled multiple times in copper pots.

The United States recognizes that tequila can only be produced in Mexico, but through an agreement with the Mexican government, bulk amounts can be bottled in the US. As a side-note, the US regulations state that tequila can have up to 49% of other liquids. That is why many recommend looking for the “100% agave” on the label. If it contains more than 51% agave and less than 100%, then some manufacturers will label it as “made from (or with) blue agave.” Only tequilas distilled with 100% agave can use the label “100% blue agave.”