The word ‘tequila’ tends to evoke a certain stream of thoughts into the average mind. Images of salt, limes, shots, spring break, and margaritas probably fall into the top 5 for most. For other, more extreme cases, memories of blackouts (or lack there of) and body shots bring out feelings of regret. Many think of tequila as the enemy.
With our college years and most of our tequila headaches far behind us, it’s time to overcome first impressions and past mistakes; for with a little maturity, enemies can easily become friends.
On a recent visit to one of our newest customers, Lolita, I decided to stray away from the delicious margaritas, mojitos, and sangria offered on the menu, and instead dove right into the various sipping tequilas:
Also known as silver tequila, blanco is typically unaged. A mature palate for spirits will appreciate the pure flavor of distilled agave, with citrus notes, but it comes with a bite. The immature nature of blanco tequila can definitely be a slap in the face to many. But as with all spirits, no two are exactly the same. Some blancos are smoother than others. And if not, you can keep a lime handy.
Next on the chain are reposado tequilas, which are aged anywhere from 2-12 months in oak barrels. The initial scent of a neat reposado will quickly make you question if it’s actually the same spirit as blanco, as it’s filled with strong caramel tones. It can still have that bite, but it comes along with a sweet finish.
Any scotch lover will appreciate a fine anejo. Aged for multiple years in smaller oak barrels, anejos are the smoothest of the tequila types, often with nutty vanilla notes. To consider covering up these complex flavors with lime, salt, or sugared down margarita mix, would be a crime.
Not all bars have the selection that Lolita has, but next time you’re ordering a tequila, look beyond the options of silver or gold. The possibilities are endless, and staying away from sugary mixers can do wonders for that morning after headache.
Head over to Lolita in Back Bay, and ask about their tequila flights—a great place to start for a tequila novice:
Lolita Cocina and Tequila Bar
271 Dartmouth Street Boston, 02116
lolitatequilabars.com
