As we start the new year it may be a new dawning for tequila, a recent article in CITYA.M. suggests that it is set to be the spirit of 2023.
Tequila sales, are reported to have a recent annual growth rate of 70 percent and figures by Allied Market Research suggest that tequila has generated more than £6.5bn in the last 12 months and is set to rise to £20bn by 2031. The image is changing from the seedy shot slamming stereotypical. To be enjoyed more slowly, to be appreciated, not simply downed. Indeed at the quality end tequila can fetch £100 plus per bottle, similar to premium whiskies. Instead of sipping and savouring like whisky the consumption is completely different it is consumed more like vodka at higher energy occasions which is a factor regarding its rapid sales growth as it doesn’t hang around long.
Tequila is made from the blue agave plant. Strictly controlled in accordance with ‘Declaracion de Denominacion de Origen Tequila’ or ‘Appellation of Origin Declaration’.
The different grades are determined by how long the spirit is aged in oak barrels. The three main grades are blanco, reposado and anejo.
Blanco or white tequila is the most common and is not aged, or aged for less that two months. Reposado, which means ‘rested’ is aged for a minimum of two months but less than a year. Anejo which means ‘aged’ or ‘vintage’ is aged for a minimum of one year but less than three years. Extra anejo is the luxury grade.
Named after the small town where the most delicious vino mezcal was produced. Mezcal can be made from a variety of agave plants. Premium tequila is produced from the blue Weber agave plant from Jalisco, Mexico. It can take 5 -10 years to mature, with up to three years barrel ageing before it is bottled.
Some luxury brands to look out for are Don Julio 1942, Clase Azul, and Tequila Komos. Ultra-luxury, collectors brands including ReySol Anejo (£300), Gran Patron Burdeos (£500) and Asombrosco Del Porto Extra Anejo ( £1500)
Footnote – For those of you who have read my blog regarding the 2022 London Wine Trade Fair. The published attendance figure is 8822.... No further comment.
