Tequila + Mexcal Flashcards
What is the desired altitude in meters for growing agave plants?
1500 meters
How many recognized agave species are there?
199
What is the average weight in kilograms of an agave heart?
65 kilos
What is the average age of a blue agave plant at harvest?
9 years old
What is the number of harvests that an agave plant yields in its lifespan?
1
What is a ‘Tahona’?
Circular stone grinding wheel used in a pit that crushes the soft cooked agave to obtain a sugar solution
What does the ‘abocado process’ refer to?
In Tequila it refers to the controlled quantities of certain additives giving the Joven/Oro Tequila the appearance of age. Includes caramel, oak extract, glycerin, sugar and syrup. Not used in premium Tequilas
What 3 states are legally authorized to produce both Tequila and Mezcal?
Michoacan
Guanjuanto
Tamaulipas
When was the Extra Anejo category added for Tequila?
2006
What are ‘Pipones’?
Barrels for aging Tequila
Size of a Pipone?
600 Litres
What is the maximum size for a maturation barrel for Mezcal?
200 Litres
What is a ‘palenque’?
Pots used to roast the agave hearts for Mezcal
Also used to reference a Mezcal distillery
What % of agave needs to be present in a mixto tequila?
51%
What % of agave needs to be present in a mixto Mezcal?
Minimum 80%