Tequila and other Agave Based Beverages

Question 1

Tequila is produced from…

Answer 1

the blue agave plant

Question 2

most tequila is produced in the state of

Answer 2

Jalisco (can also be made within portions of 4 other states)

Question 3

US standards for tequila

Answer 3

agave spirit distilled at less than 190 proof
min 80 proof

Question 4

t/f: many styles of tequila are allowed to contain additives, eg caramel coloring or oak extract

Answer 4

true

Question 5

two main cultivation areas in Jalisco for blue agave

Answer 5

the highlands
the lowlands

Question 6

the highlands vs the lowlands

Answer 6

highlands (cooler): softer, fruitier, very floral
lowlands (warmer): crisper, more vegetal and earthy, black pepper spice

Question 7

t/f: blue agave is a cactus

Answer 7

false - succulent

Question 8

pina

Answer 8

heart of the plant

Question 9

why are pinas cooked?

Answer 9

pinas are partially composed of carbs which must be converted to fermentable sugars. this can be done by 1) prolonged exposure to water or 2) exposure to heat

Question 10

how are pinas cooked?

Answer 10

pinas are placed in steam ovens

Question 11

how is tequila distilled?

Answer 11

no requirements on still type. however, vast majority of produces use pot still

Question 12

tequila age classifications

Answer 12

blanco - no age req
joven - no age req- often indicates an unaged tequila treated with additives
oro - tequila made via a blend of young tequila and older tequila
reposado: min 2 mo oak, typically used oak
aneo: min 1 year age
extra anejo: min 3 years

Question 13

Mezcal formerly meant

Answer 13

referred to all agave spirits produced in Mexico until 1994 - when Mezcal was awarded its own set of standards

Question 14

Pulque

Answer 14

fermented agave beverage - local Mexican beverage

Question 15

100% Blue Agave Tequila vs Tequila

Answer 15

tequila only required to be made from min 51% blue agave juice