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Tequila, the iconic beverage of Mexico, has a special day on the global calendar: International Tequila Day is on July 24th. This date not only honors the rich history and culture behind this spirit but also recognizes its growing popularity and relevance in the global market.
A brief history of Tequila
Tequila has its roots in pre-Hispanic times when indigenous cultures fermented the juices of the agave plant to create a beverage called pulque. With the arrival of the Spaniards in the 16th century and the introduction of distillation techniques, the production of what we now know as tequila began.
The city of Tequila, in the state of Jalisco, is recognized as the birthplace of this drink, and this is where its name comes from.
Tequila Production
Tequila is made from blue agave (Agave tequilana Weber). This process begins with the harvesting of agave piñas, which are cooked to extract their juices. These juices are then fermented and distilled. Depending on their purity, tequila is classified into two main categories: ‘100% agave’ and ‘Mixto’.
100% Agave Tequila
Tequila 100% agave, as the name suggests, is made exclusively from blue agave juice. This type of tequila is considered pure and offers a complex range of flavors and aromas, making it the preferred choice for connoisseurs and tequila enthusiasts.
Its production has seen a significant increase due to global demand. In 2023, the production of 100% agave tequila reached 427.2 million liters, a 151% increase compared to the volume produced between 2018 and 2023.
Mixto Tequila
Mixto tequila, on the other hand, is made by adding other sugars during the fermentation process, usually up to 49%. This type of tequila is more commonly used in cocktails due to its lower production cost and more accessible flavor profile. In 2023, the production of mixto tequila was 171.5 million liters.
Production and Exportation
Tequila production in Mexico reached 598.7 million liters in 2023. Although this number represents an 8% decrease compared to the previous year, the production volume has grown by nearly 155% over the past decade.
The majority of tequila produced comes from the state of Jalisco, although it is also cultivated in some municipalities of neighboring states.
Tequila Exportation
Tequila has transitioned from being a local beverage to a global phenomenon. In 2022, more than 64% of tequila production was destined for export.
The primary export market for Mexican tequila is the United States, with approximately 338 million liters imported that year. This volume is more than 32 times the amount imported by Germany, the second most important trading partner for Mexican tequila.
Source: Statista.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Exportation of tequila not only represents a significant source of income for Mexico but also contributes to the spread of Mexican culture worldwide. Each bottle of tequila carries the history, traditions, and art of distillation that have been perfected over centuries.
Did you know that European Commission approved the registration of Mexican tequila as a protected designation of origin in the European Union?
International Tequila Day Celebration
International Tequila Day is an opportunity to celebrate this iconic beverage and all that it represents. On this day, various activities take place, including tastings, guided samplings, lectures on the history and production process of tequila, and cultural events that highlight the importance of agave in Mexican culture.
Additionally, this day serves to educate consumers about the differences between types of tequila, their production methods, and the importance of choosing authentic, high-quality products. It is an occasion to appreciate not only the taste of tequila but also the hard work and dedication that goes into each bottle.
Conclusions
Tequila, more than just a drink, is a symbol of Mexico’s identity and cultural heritage. International Tequila Day invites us to explore and appreciate this rich tradition, from its humble beginnings in the agave fields to its current status as a world-renowned spirit.
By raising a glass of tequila, we celebrate not only its distinctive flavor but also the history and passion that have made it a national and global treasure.
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