Tequila for Beginners

Tequila, a spirit with a rich and storied past, offers an unparalleled sipping journey full of vibrancy. For those new to this iconic Mexican liquor, understanding its nuances can be as rewarding as tasting its smooth and complex flavors. This guide will dive into the different types of tequila, proper tasting techniques and our recommendation for beginners.

What is Tequila?

Tequila is a spirit primarily made from the blue agave plant with a rich, centuries-long history. It is now enjoyed globally, but can only be produced in specific regions of Mexico, predominantly the state of  Jalisco. The production process starts with harvesting blue agave plants, followed by cooking, fermenting and distilling the plant juices to create the final product.

Different Types of Tequila: Where to Start?

Silver, or blanco, tequila is usually bottled right after distillation, capturing the pure and vibrant essence of agave. Reposado is aged for at least two months, offering a smoother taste with hints of oak. Añejo, matured for one to three years, brings forth a richer, more intricate woody flavor. Extra añejo, aged over three years, develops deeply nuanced flavors and an exceptionally smooth finish. Cristalino tequila is made by taking an aged tequila and filtering it through charcoal. This filtration leaves the tequila clear, like a blanco, while retaining the complex flavors that come from the aging process.

So, you’re ready to experiment and see if you enjoy tequila, but how do you pick a bottle that is high-quality and beginner-friendly? When it comes to selecting the best sipping tequila for beginners, we recommend starting with PATRÓN Reposado. Each sip reveals a harmonious blend of agave's boldness softened by a delicate embrace of oak. It's a tequila that bridges the gap between the youthful vibrancy of blanco and the deep complexity of añejo, offering a taste experience that is both refined and enchanting.

Tasting Tequila the Right Way

A premium, additive-free spirit like PATRÓN Reposado is meant to be savored with every sip. From a traditional rocks glass to unconventional stemware, any type of glassware you have will work. Glasses with wider openings, like snifters and goblets, allow for greater appreciation of the drink’s aroma.

First, hold up the glass and give it one swirl to examine the legs. In spirits with higher residual sugar or added sugar, the legs are wider and cascade faster. Legs that indicate high quality, however, are thin and fall very slowly—such is the case with PATRÓN Tequila.

When tasting tequila properly, your sense of smell is arguably your most important tool. Studies have shown that over 80% of what we taste comes from what we smell. Gently swirl the glass to release the aromas; if you're using PATRÓN Reposado, look out for oak wood and fresh agave.

Next, take a small sip and hold it in your mouth for a moment. The role of the first sip is to reset your palate from whatever you may have consumed prior. The second sip is the most important—take a slow, deep breath and purse your lips as you drink. Let it coat your palate and take a moment to note any emerging flavors: fruit? citrus? honey? Lastly, evaluate the finish, which refers to the lingering taste after swallowing. A smooth and long-lasting finish often indicates high-quality tequila.

Best Cocktails for Tequila Beginners

If you’re still not sure if drinking tequila neat is right for you, add it to a cocktail. You may have only ever had it in a margarita or tequila sunrise, but this liquor has so much more to offer. Our Simple Collection is a great place to start, with easy yet delicious cocktails like the PATRÓN Paloma.

Whether you decide to begin your tequila journey with an unaged silver, or the aged beauty of PATRÓN Reposado, remember that it is not just a spirit, but a reflection of rich heritage and craftsmanship.