The World's Most Popular Cocktail

Tequila is a Mexican spirit made from the blue agave plant.  The word 'tequila' has its roots in the Nahuatl language of Mexico's indigenous people, “tequitl” (meaning work, duty, job, or task) and "tlan" (meaning place).  The spirit was born from the pre-Hispanic fermented and nutrient-rich beverage, pulque. Pulque, made from the fermented sap of the agave plant and believed to be a gift from the gods, was used for sacred, medicinal, and practical purposes.

The agave plant provided more than just an alcoholic beverage - the fibers of the plant can be woven into mats, paper, thread, clothing, etc. while the sharp spines served as durable needles. Even remains from over 9,000 years ago contain traces of agave consumption!

Evidence of distillation methods exists post-Spanish arrival. Filipinos in the Colima region may have introduced their style still in the early 16th century, used to distill coconut spirits. However, many scholars argue it is likely the indigenous people of Mexico were distilling spirits from the agave plant before this time.

The first licensed manufacturer of tequila (a mezcal, or agave spirit, from the town of Tequila) was Jose Cuervo in 1758 when he purchased land and a privately owned distillery from Vicente de Salvidar.

The popularity of tequila in the United States has risen and declined throughout its existence. Through Prohibition, world wars, industry changes and regulations, tequila has survived it all.

Let's celebrate this noble spirit with a classic Margarita - the world’s most popular cocktail! We prefer to use agave as a sweetener in this classic cocktail as it highlights the character of the agave spirit.

Here's how to make it:

Prep your glass! Use a lime wedge to wet half of a rocks glass. Dip into salt.

In your shaker add:

2 oz tequila

3/4 oz fresh lime juice

1/2 oz agave syrup

Briefly mix together

Add ice to cover ingredients and vigorously shake for 15 seconds.

Single strain over ice-filled rocks glass.

Garnish with a lime wedge.

Enjoy!

Note: This cocktail can be served up OR on the rocks!