TEQUILA EXPO
Discover the mystique of the blue agave! The drink that made Mexico famous was once called the best medicine for the flu. Explore the culture, prestige and history of tequila.
Join Mexican Fiesta in discovering the beautiful history, taste and presentation of tequila during our Tequila Exposition during Mexican Fiesta. This extraordinary exposition will take place in the Cultural Village where you will be able to see and learn about the beautiful bottled tequilas that will be showcased directly from Jalisco, Mexico presented to us by “Tequilera Mitlali SA de CV”.
Learn more about tequila and its history by reading on!
Tequila's grandparent, Mezcal wine, was first produced only a few decades after the Conquest that brought the Spaniards to the New World in 1521. Throughout history it has been known by a variety of names until finally being named after Tequila, a small town in Jalisco, Mexico, where it is primarily produced.
Tequila is an alcoholic drink made in the arid highlands of central Mexico, from fermented and distilled sap of the agave, which is an indigenous plant. Archeologists say the agave has been cultivated for at least 9,000 years. ‘Tequila’ was first made by the Conquistadors, who distilled a native drink called pulque into a stronger spirit. In the 400 years following the Conquest, tequila has become an icon of Mexican nationality, pride and culture, recognized worldwide. Today, most of the tequila is made in the state of Jalisco, Mexico, where tequila originated.
Each type of tequila is given a category based on age and color. Unaged tequila is called tequila blanco while tequila that has been colored gold with caramel is called joven abocado (bottled young). Reposado (rested) is tequila that has aged in oak for at least two months; and añejo (aged) has aged for a year or more.
To be classified as tequila, it must be made from no less than 51% Weber blue agave. High-end tequilas are made from 100% Weber blue agave. Quality blancos, reposados and añejos are smooth, with many palates, depending on the production and aging process.
Much of the tequila produced today is from original agave used in centuries past. Jimadores are the hardy men who grow agave for tequila production. They determine the time to harvest each agave from knowledge passed down through many generations of jimadores.
Today's fine tequilas are highly coveted by collectors worldwide—for both the smooth aromatic liquor and the handcrafted decorative bottles.
The Tequila Expo presented to us by:
