So, are you looking for high-quality and crafted spirits? It is time to focus on agave spirits, especially if you are a whisky drinker who wants to explore new flavour profiles.
To help you better understand the rising momentum in Tequila consumption, we have created this blog. We will unveil how it overlaps with whisky in process and appeal. Also, let’s see what makes Tequila the “new whisky” for discerning drinkers.
1. The evolution of Tequila from party drink to premium spirit
For years now, Tequila has gained a reputation for being a fast-serve party drink. It is either taken as shots or poured into margaritas. But the rise of 100% agave tequila has shifted consumer perception.
Unlike mixto Tequilas (which contain a blend of sugars), 100% agave alternatives highlight the true traits of the agave plant. Besides, producers are now embracing the ageing methods that were associated with whisky for so long. These include ex-bourbon, sherry, or French oak barrels. The outcome: Reposado, añejo and extra añejo options.
This movement is a part of a broader craft spirits trend. Here, quality and provenance are front and centre.
2. Parallels between premium Tequila and Whisky
Both Whisky and premium Tequila have similar production and ageing methods.
- Ageing process: Similar to Whisky, even premium Tequila undergoes barrel ageing. This is what creates the complexity. Reposado rests for at least two months. Añejo is aged for a year or more. Extra añejo takes three years or more. This maturing timeline is very much similar to Whisky’s. Oak barrels impart vanilla, spice and toasted notes. And this again is the same as Whisky.
- Terroir influence: In terms of Tequila, the location where agave is grown matters a lot for the final flavour. This same regional distinction is noted in Whisky, too.
- Craftsmanship: Both categories favour small-batch, artisanal production. Master distillers are experimenting with fermentation methods, still types and barrel selections.
3. Why consumers are shifting towards premium Tequila?
Several factors are driving Tequila’s growth in the premium spirit space.
- Demand for authenticity: Consumers now are more interested in knowing where their spirits are coming from or how they are made. And this has resulted in the growing market for additive-free spirits.
- Premiumisation: People are willing to pay for top-shelf Tequila. This consists of aged and limited releases. Small-batch and estate-grown Tequilas are becoming a status symbol, same like rare Whiskies.
- Cocktail culture: Bartenders are now including premium Tequila in spirit-forward drinks. This has resulted in Whisky being replaced in cocktails like Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
To be concluded
Tequila is clearly moving up the ladder. It has now become a sophisticated sipping spirit from being a simple mixer. The unique production and ageing practices of Tequila, which are quite similar to Whisky, make it a premium choice.
While it may not replace Whisky outright, Tequila is earning a spot on the same shelf!
