Tequila is an incredibly popular drink many around the world love to enjoy—whether poured in a mixed drink or a shot glass or served straight up with lime and salt. Despite its popularity, most of us know very little about the history or origins of this delicious liquid. In fact, it’s possible that what we know isn’t entirely accurate or true. That’s why you might want to find out some interesting facts about tequila you likely didn’t know.
Years in the Making
You might be familiar with the fact that farmers harvest tequila from the blue agave plant. The blue agave plant is a succulent that is native to Jalisco, Mexico. It has distinctive spiked leaves with an ashy blue-green color and flourishes in the ashy soils of the land.
However, if you want to get tequila from this plant, you’ll have to wait about ten years. Yes, that’s about how long it takes for the blue agave plant to fully mature. Next time you enjoy tequila, you’ll appreciate the time and dedication that went into every sip.
The Maguey
We likely all know about the tequila worm—or the maguey—and even squirm at the thought. While the maguey is partially a myth, it’s still a fun and unique gift for the tequila and mezcal lover in your life. The maguey began as a marketing ploy to spread popularity about mezcal. So, the tequila worm is not a tequila worm; it’s more of a mezcal worm. However, the addition of a worm does not add any flavor profiles.
Authentic Tequila
One of the most interesting facts you didn’t know about tequila is that not all the tequila you drink is authentic. Mexico has quite strict standards as to what makes tequila authentic. If you want to ensure you’re drinking authentic tequila, it must be from 100% Blue Weber agave. It must also only originate from five areas within the country—Jalisco, Tamaulipa, Michoacan, Guanajuato, and Nayarit.
