Tequila
Tequila is a distilled spirit made from the blue agave plant, primarily produced in specific regions of Mexico. Here’s a breakdown of what defines tequila:
1. Origin: Tequila must be produced in designated regions of Mexico, primarily in the state of Jalisco, and parts of four other states (Nayarit, Guanajuato, Michoacán, and Tamaulipas).
2. Ingredients: It must be made from at least 51% blue Weber agave, though high-quality tequilas are made with 100% blue agave.
3. Distillation: The spirit is distilled twice, usually in copper or stainless steel stills, to reach the desired alcohol content.
4. Types: Tequila comes in five main varieties based on aging:
• Blanco (Silver): Unaged or aged less than two months.
• Joven (Gold): A mix of blanco and aged tequilas or blanco with added flavor/color.
• Reposado: Aged between two months and one year in oak barrels.
• Añejo: Aged between one and three years in oak barrels.
• Extra Añejo: Aged more than three years.
5. Alcohol Content: Tequila is usually bottled at 38-40% ABV (alcohol by volume), though it can be stronger.
Tequila is enjoyed in a wide range of cocktails, such as the margarita, or sipped neat, particularly higher-end, 100% agave varieties.
NOM (Norma Oficial Mexicana) is a unique identifier found on bottles of tequila that indicates the distillery where the tequila was produced. It’s a regulatory number issued by the Mexican government to ensure that the tequila adheres to the official production standards set by law. Here’s what it means:
1. Traceability: The NOM number allows consumers to trace the specific distillery where the tequila was made. Even if different brands are produced in the same distillery, they will share the same NOM number.
2. Authenticity: The presence of a NOM number confirms that the tequila is legally recognized and meets the requirements for being labeled as authentic tequila.
3. Regulation: The NOM ensures that the tequila follows strict production regulations, including using at least 51% blue agave and being produced within the designated regions of Mexico, mainly in Jalisco.
You can use the NOM number to learn more about the distillery and compare brands that may come from the same producer.
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