Choosing The Right Tequila For Smooth Margarita Cocktails
Introduction
When it comes to crafting the perfect margarita cocktail, few ingredients are as important as the choice of tequila. The agave spirit is the foundation of this cocktail and its quality can make or ruin the ideal margarita cocktail. Tequila is a popular distilled mexican liquor made primarily from the blue agave plant.
Making tequila involves harvesting and roasting the heart of the succulent plant, known as the piña. Then the juice is extracted and fermented before being distilled and bottled. Depending on how long the tequila has been aged, it can take on various flavour profiles. Citrusy and vibrant or nuanced and aged, there are many choices.
When it comes to tequila, there are two sub categories. They are authentic tequila, made from blue agave only and ‘mixto’ tequila. Mixto tequilas are created with at least 51% blue agave along with other sugars to support the fermentation process.
To create smooth and top-quality margarita cocktails, it is essential to pick authentic, 100% Blue agave-based tequila.
Choosing The Right Tequila
There are three main types of tequila. Unaged or silver tequila, aged tequila and extra-aged tequila.
Young Or Silver Tequila
In stainless steel tanks, silver tequila is usually unaged or aged for a very short period, less than two months. It is the most authentic embodiment of the agave-based spirit and has a naturally bright flavour. This makes unaged tequila an excellent choice for margarita cocktails. Silver tequilas often feature vegetal notes, slightly peppery undertones, and a crisp finish. This makes them a great base for margarita cocktails without overpowering its other ingredients.
Aged Tequila
Aged tequila is usually stored in oak barrels for a minimum of 2 months up to 1 year. This process gives aged tequila a smooth, rounded flavour with caramel, vanilla and oak notes. Being slightly aged, these tequilas still have the vibrancy of agave. At the same time, their barrel aging gives them a woody, complex finish. These tequilas can be suitable for those who prefer a richer, more mellow margarita cocktail with a layered and unique flavour profile.
Extra Aged Tequila
Extra-aged tequila is commonly kept in oak barrels for a minimum of 1 year up to 3 years. This longer aging process evokes even more nuanced flavours, such as dark chocolate and dried fruits, along with notes of smokiness. This extra-aged variety of tequila is smoother and richer than its aged and unaged counterparts. However, its robust flavours can be a bit overpowering for a traditional margarita cocktail. If you choose this variety, try using them for creative margarita cocktail variations.
Making Smooth Margarita Cocktails
A classic margarita usually consists of tequila, lime juice and orange liqueur. Adding simple syrup is optional. The choice of tequila primarily influences the final taste of the cocktail. Being the base spirit of the cocktail, its flavour profile determines the overall drink’s taste. Using a young tequila usually produces a bright, citrus-forward margarita cocktail. Using an aged tequila gives the cocktail a more balanced and smokey flavour. In contrast, extra-aged tequila is ideal for experienced and experimental margarita cocktail connoisseurs. The right type of top-shelf tequila ensures mixological harmony with the tart acidity of lime juice and the citrusy sweetness of orange liqueur.
To mix a margarita cocktail for 1, you need 20 ml tequila, 10 ml orange liqueur, 10 ml lime juice, 5-8 simple syrup (optional), a lime wedge and kosher salt for garnishing. Rim your cocktail glass by using a lime wedge and kosher salt. Let it chill in the refrigerator. To an ice-filled cocktail shaker, add tequila, orange liqueur and lime juice. Shake vigorously till thoroughly chilled. Strain into the prepared glass over ice. Garnish with the lime wedge and serve chilled.
Ultimately, the kind of tequila you choose depends on personal preference. As long as it complements the taste of other ingredients and is of authentic, high quality, you can use any variety. Ideally, unaged tequilas are suitable for traditional margarita cocktails, while aged and extra-aged varieties are suitable for bartending experts and adventurous tequila aficionados.
Drink Responsibly. This communication is for audiences above the age of 25.
