Some producers are branching out to offer several different añejos. For instance, the Don Julio brand, which already had an añejo, introduced Don Julio Añejo Clara to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the first tequila made by Don Julio González. The tequila is aged for 18 months, but looks like the typical blanco or silver tequila. Don Julio also also produces 1942 and Real in the añejo collection.
If you are planning to go beyond beer this weekend, tequila offers a place in the sun.
Know Your Agave
Tequilas are all made using Agave tequilana, more commonly known as blue agave. Tequila is produced by removing the heart (piña) of the plant in its twelfth year But some are mixto, which means they contain at least 51 percent blue agave and then are diluted with other ingredients and flavoring agents. It is best to look for 100 percent agave tequila. If it does not say 100 percent agave on the label, you are most likely drinking a mixto.
Blanco, silver, plata or white tequila is a young spirit. Typically these are bottled immediately after being distilled, or they might spend just a few weeks in stainless steel.
Gold tequilas are most often mixto spirits that have had some color or flavor added.
