Tequila Gift Basket: 5 Top Tips To Curate Spirit Variations, Mixers, Snacks And More
Taking off from the coasts of Mexico, tequila – made from the blue agave which grows in this region – has had quite a journey. Its tart, slightly fruity, citrusy notes which can embody lots of different flavours coming from mixers and other tasteful accents, have made this spirit rank high in the rosters of bartenders and mixologists. Yet, tequila also goes beyond its use in cocktails to actually reveal itself as a spirit with a nuanced flavour depth and slightly robust notes which come from ageing its reposado and añejo variations.
As such, tequila is a spirit with much to offer and it is no wonder that putting together a gift hamper for the tequila curioso might require a deft tequila know-how. From putting together different kinds of this spirit to adding quirky mixers and citruses along with some Mexican crisps, a lot of different elements can be part of a tequila gift basket that can be put together for the aficionado as they mark Tequila Day this year.
Here are some top tips to curate a tequila gift hamper for the connoisseur who is keen, this month, to mark the day dedicated to the Mexican agave liquor:
Choose The Right Variations
One of the first steps involved in curating this gift basket is to include at least two tequila variations. Go for a small 180 ml bottle of Don Julio Blanco Tequila or any other premium blanco tequila of choice and another of Don Julio Añejo Tequila or any other premium añejo tequila of choice. This will become a fine mix of spirits, one of which can be used to blend cocktails and the other can be part of an exquisite tequila tasting experience. Each variation offers a lot in terms of flavour, and the way they are treated in bartending will lend more versatility to the tequila experience.
Go For Creative Mixers
Another pro tip is to choose mixers wisely. Instead of the usual fare comprising sodas and fizzy, sparkling water, go for more creative mixers that have the potential to blend iconic cocktails. Choose tropical elements like a spicy pineapple shrub, a sparkling tamarind soda, some smoked lemonade and even a mango-chilli cooler which will lend that beachy, slightly stand out vibe to the cocktails concocted using the Don Julio Blanco or any other premium tequila which is part of the hamper – effectively introducing a mix of sweet, spicy, earthy and tangy flavours into these quirky mixes.
Also Read: How To Create The Ultimate Tequila Cocktail Gift Basket With Tasty Nibbles
Throw In Mexican-Inspired Snacks
A tequila gift basket would undoubtedly be incomplete without some Mexican-inspired snacks. Make this element a bit more interesting by adding DIY nacho kits complete with the crisps, some pickled jalapeños and a jar of queso. Taco seasoned popcorn, guacamole flavoured nuts, a bottle of hot sauce, chocolate with cinnamon and chilli can be among some of the small bites which fit right into the Mexican gift hamper’s theme.
Add Quirky Citruses
What will take this gift basket to a whole different level is a mixed bag of citruses which have much to offer as cocktail accents. Think citruses like dehydrated wedges, grapefruit soda, a tin of lime and chilli dust which can be used as ingredients that build more eclectic flavours into tequila-based cocktails. Since citruses and tequila are a match made in heaven, these complex, sour elements can be useful for making tequila cocktails carrying much finesse.
Finish Off With DIY Apparatus
Put a more DIY spin on the tequila gift hamper for the connoisseur to dabble with by adding apparatus like a cocktail shaker, some margarita mix, stirrers and glassware which can all be pooled together to make simple tequila-infused cocktails. A pro tip would be to incorporate a small box containing edible flowers or some sea salt and chilli powder mix which would act as chic garnishes atop these drinks.
Drink Responsibly. This communication is for audiences above the age of 25.
