Cinco de Mayo Experience TASTING TEQUILA This Cinco de Mayo, expand your appreciation for tequila by setting up an educational tasting. Explore the styles from blanco to extra añejo. Several steps are involved to fully appreciate the flavours, aromas and characteristics. Enjoy responsibly, and with practice, you will enhance your ability to discern the various nuances between them.
Blanco Unaged, pure agave flavours
Engage Your Senses
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Appearance Observe the spirit’s appearance in the glass. Note its colour, clarity and viscosity. Swirl the glass gently to see how the spirit coats and cascades down the sides, referred to as “streaking” or “legs.” Slow legs indicate higher alcohol content and a more viscous texture created by oils and other compounds. Aromas To assess the aromas, swirling is not necessary. The higher alcohol content of spirits helps the aromatics rise. Keep your mouth open and gently inhale with your mouth and nose simultaneously. The added oxygen reduces the intensity of the vapours. Identify the various scents: fruity, floral, herbal, spicy or woody.
Flavours Take a small sip and slowly move it across your palate before swallowing (or spitting). Slowly breathe in through your mouth and out through your nose. Note the initial taste, the evolving flavours and the aftertaste. Consider the texture and mouthfeel. Is it smooth, velvety, oily or harsh? Finish Evaluate the flavours that linger after swallowing (or spitting). Is the finish long lasting or short lived? Is the aftertaste pleasant or unpleasant? Record your observations, including the aromas, flavours and mouthfeel, and your overall impressions. Taking notes helps recall the tasting experience.
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Did you know? A few drops of water can help reveal flavours muted by the alcohol. You can also allow some alcohol to evaporate from your glass by leaving it for an hour or two.
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