The Real Tequila
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  • About
    • About The Real Tequila
    • Why The Real Tequila
    • The Story
    • Not All Tequila is Equal
    • Additive Free Manifesto
    • Additive Free Designation
    • The Lawsuit
  • Tasting Experiences
  • Featured Brands
  • Food Pairings
  • News
  • Drink Recipes
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FAQ's

tequila FAQ real tequila

What exactly is tequila?

  • Tequila is a distilled spirit made exclusively from the Blue Weber agave plant, primarily grown in designated regions of Mexico. By law, it must be produced in certain states — most famously Jalisco — and meet strict standards regulated by the CRT (Consejo Regulador del Tequila).

What does “100% agave” mean?

  • It means the tequila is made entirely from Blue Weber agave sugars — no added cane or corn sugars. This is the gold standard for purity, flavor, and authenticity.

What is Tequila Made From?

  • Blue Agave. Premium tequila is made from 100% blue Weber agave plant, a succulent related to lilies, not a cactus. 
  • The Piña. The heart of the agave plant, called the piña, is harvested and roasted to convert its starches into sugars. 
  • Fermentation & Distillation. The sugars are extracted, fermented, and then distilled to create the spirit.

How is Tequila Classified?

Tequilas are classified by their aging process:    

  • Blanco (or Silver). Unaged and bottled within two months of distillation. Crisp, pure agave character; pepper, citrus, herbal notes.
  • Joven (or Gold). A blend or simply colored with additives. Not recommended by Real Tequila.
  • Reposado (Rested). Aged for at least two months and no longer than 12 months in oak barrels. Balance of agave brightness with soft vanilla, caramel.
  • Añejo (Aged). Aged for a minimum of one year and no longer than 3 years in oak barrels. Rich, smooth, with oak, spice, and dried fruit complexity
  • Extra Añejo (Extra Aged). Aged for a minimum of three years in oak barrels. Deep, luxurious, often resembling fine cognac or whiskey.

Where is Tequila From?

  •  Designated Regions. For a spirit to be called tequila, it must be produced in Mexico within the  legally designated region, primarily the state of Jalisco. 

Common Misconceptions

  • Worms. The "worm" sometimes found in a bottle is a gimmick and typically appears in Mezcal, not true tequila. 
  • Agave Type. Only Blue Agave can be used for tequila, while mezcal can be made from various types of agave. 
  • Mixto vs. 100% Agave. "Mixto"  tequilas are only 51% agave and may contain other sugars, while 100%  agave tequilas are made solely from the blue agave plant 

Why do you only review Blanco expressions at Real Tequila?

  • Blanco showcases tequila in its purest form, exactly as the distiller intended before oak aging adds extra flavors. It’s the truest expression of the agave and the production craft.

What are “additives” in tequila, and why do they matter?

  • Up to 1% of certain flavorings, colorings, or sweeteners are allowed by law — often to soften or mask flaws. At Real Tequila, we celebrate 100% additive‑free brands for their transparency and authentic character.

How should I taste tequila properly?

  • Use a tulip-shaped glass to focus aromas. 
  • Observe the color and clarity.
  • Gently swirl, then inhale slowly — notice cooked agave, citrus, earth, spice.
  • Sip, let it coat your palate, and note evolving flavors.
  • Appreciate the finish — its length, warmth, and complexity.

Can tequila be paired with food?

  • Absolutely! Blanco works beautifully with fresh ceviche or grilled vegetables, Reposado with roasted meats, and Añejo with dark chocolate or rich mole. Pairing can elevate both the food and the spirit. Click here to See our expert food pairings.

Is mezcal the same as tequila?

  • No — all tequila is mezcal (a spirit from agave), but not all mezcal is tequila. Mezcal can be made from many agave varieties and in more regions, often with a smoky profile from traditional roasting.

How should tequila be stored?

  • Keep bottles upright in a cool, dark place with the cap tightly sealed. Once opened, tequila won’t spoil but may lose intensity after a few years. Make sure to visit our Does Tequila Go Bad page for more tips on keeping your tequila in optimum condition.

Enjoy Real Tequila

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348 West 57th Street

New York, NY 10019 

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