What is tequila called when not made in Mexico? This question often arises among tequila enthusiasts and newcomers to the spirit world. While tequila is a spirit that originates from Mexico, there are other spirits that share similarities with tequila but are produced outside of its native country. In this article, we will explore the different names and variations of tequila-like spirits from around the world.
Tequila is a spirit that is made from the blue agave plant, primarily in the Tequila Valley of Western Mexico. The process of making tequila involves extracting the sugars from the agave plant, fermenting them, and then distilling the resulting liquid. The spirit must be aged in oak barrels for at least 40 months to be labeled as “tequila.” However, when this process is followed outside of Mexico, the resulting spirit is often given a different name to distinguish it from the traditional tequila.
One of the most popular alternatives to tequila is called “mezcal.” Mezcal is produced in Mexico, but it is made from a variety of agave plants, not just the blue agave used for tequila. While mezcal and tequila share many similarities, such as their smoky flavor and agave base, mezcal is not considered tequila due to its different production process and the use of different agave varieties.
Another spirit that is often compared to tequila is called “tequilaquila.” This is a play on words that combines “tequila” with “mezcal.” Tequilaquila is a spirit that is produced in the United States, using the same blue agave plant as tequila but with a different fermentation and distillation process. While tequilaquila may taste similar to tequila, it is not recognized as a genuine tequila by the Mexican government.
In addition to mezcal and tequilaquila, there are other spirits that are produced around the world and may be considered tequila-like. For example, “pulque” is a traditional Mexican spirit that is made from the agave plant but does not undergo the same fermentation and distillation process as tequila. Similarly, “pulque de agave” is another name for pulque that emphasizes its agave base.
In conclusion, while tequila is a spirit that is exclusively made in Mexico, there are other spirits that share similarities with tequila and are produced outside of its native country. Mezcal, tequilaquila, pulque, and pulque de agave are just a few examples of these tequila-like spirits. Whether you are a tequila aficionado or simply curious about the world of spirits, exploring these alternative options can be a delightful adventure.
