Celebrate Cinco de Mayo In Style

Just back from Mayan Riviera, I have a new appreciation for tequila. Sorry, Scotch, but sipping tequilas has taken centre stage. A bit costlier than standard tequilas, aged tequila (“anejo” and “reserva”) is refined, 100% blue agave alcohol. In order to experience its complex flavour, aged tequila is to be sipped slowly at room temperature from a 2-oz glass (a caballito) or a snifter.

In honour of Cinco de Mayo, serve tequila as Mexicans traditionally do: in 2-oz glasses accompanied by sangrita – side drinks of tomato juice and citrus juice (orange or lime) with salt and chile.

Just the Facts

• Tequila vs. Mescal: Both are liquors produced from the agave plant. Only 100% blue agave plant liquor bottled in Mexico’s Tequila Region is true tequila.
• The Worm: Is for show and found only in mescal.
• Buying: Look for “100% agave.” Some bottles of “tequila” contain only 51% blue agave and are thus blended liquor.

  And Just for Fun
  

  • Haven’t got aged tequila? While in Mexico I tried a Submarino. Make your own: place a shot glass of tequila in a pint glass and slowly cover with Mexican beer, without producing foam. Salud!

    - Tory Healy, Food Associate