From which country do agave spirits almost exclusively originate?
Almost exclusively from Mexico, the most important being Tequila and Mezcal.
What are the carbohydrates used to produce alcohol that are stored in the heart of the Agave plant?
Inulin
When is the harvest time for Agave?
At peak maturity, just before they are ready to flower, and when they have the most inulin.
What are the common flavors of Agave?
- Pepper
- Vegetable
- Bell pepper
What is the piña?
The central core of the Agave plant, and the part that is harvested for making distillate.
What are the two methods of cooking agave?
In Tequila, the piña are slowly steamed in brick ovens, while in Mezcal the piña are often roasted in stone lined pits.
Why is the piña crushed after cooking?
To release their juices, and to leave behind the fibrous material of the piña.
What type of milling machine is currently used in Tequila?
Mechanical
Traditionally, a large stone wheel was used to crush the piña.
Why is Agave heated?
Agave is heated to convert the inulin into sugar.
What plant is used for all tequila production?
Blue Agave
Why would fibers from the Piña be added during fermentation?
Fibers can be added to enhance agave flavors.
What type of still is used for top-quality Tequila or Mezcal?
Double distilled in pot stills in order to maximize agave flavors.
Why are some agave spirits collected at low strengths?
This is done in order to capture as much flavor as possible - can be 60% or lower.
What are the characteristics of agave spirits briefly matured in oak?
It will display greater smoothness and flavor complexity.
How does oak affect Agave flavors?
Oak can overwhelm them if left too long.
Where does gold tequila get its color?
Typically unaged spirit with added caramel coloring (and sometimes other additives) to mimic the effects of oak maturation.
What is the additive added to gold tequila that gives it its color and other characteristics that mimic the effects of maturation?
Abocado
What is Mezcal?
Both the umbrella term for all Mexican agave spirits and a protected geographical indication (GI) for specific agave spirits made in designated regions.
What is Tequila?
A protected geographical indication (GI) produced primarily in Jalisco and limited surrounding areas. Many large global brands dominate this category.
What is the significance of having “Mezcal” on the label?
On a label, “Mezcal” refers only to the protected GI, not to agave spirits in general.
What is Agave tequilana Weber var. azul?
Commonly known as Blue Agave, it is the only variety of agave that can be used for Tequila.
What is the most important state for growing Agave for Tequila?
Jalisco
This is where the blue agave originated.
How long does it take for a blue agave plant to mature?
Typically between 7-10 years.
What are the flavors associated with Blue Agave grown at altitude?
Fruitier flavors
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Tasting and Evaluating Spirits35
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Factors Affecting the Style and Quality of Spirits35
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The Spirits Industry15
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Fruit Spirits26
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Whisky/Whiskey30
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Sugar Cane Spirits37
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Tequila and Mezcal38
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Vodka18
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Techniques for Flavoring and Coloring Spirits13
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Flavored Spirits21
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Aromatised Wines13
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An Introduction to a Spirits Bar41
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Mixing with Spirits36
