Looking for a reason to party this weekend? Well you’re in luck because Friday, July 24 marks National Tequila Day. Whether your choice of poison is the mouthwatering Mexican Hot Chocolate Martini, the sinful double shot, or the yummy number inspired by Eva Longoria Parker, tequila is the main ingredient behind some of the world's most delectable drinks. To get you in the spirit of honoring one of Mexico’s greatest imports, here are some little-known agave facts that explain the secrets behind your cocktail’s favorite companion:
#4 Agave Fact: The heart of the plant, the piña, where the juices are extracted from, can weigh between 80 and 130 pounds.
#3 Agave Fact: Although there are more than 200 varieties of agave in Mexico, at least 51% of each bottle of tequila must be composed of the sugars extracted from the Agave Tequilana Weber Blue variety.
#2 Agave fact: The plant’s growing cycle is approximately 10 years, at which time it is recommended to extract the juices.
#1 Agave Fact: The agave is cooked in brick ovens for 50 to 72 hours, although the more modern processes done in steel ovens last only 12 hours.
Another great way of paying tribute to tequila is preparing a margarita, the one drink that gives you an excuse to savor the spirit. In time for National Tequila Day, Tim Laird, C.E.O. Chief Entertaining Officer for Herradura Tequila, has created a spicy version, adding the heat of the Habanero syrup that pairs perfectly with the smoothness of Herradura Reposado. In the meantime, if you would also like to learn the art of tasting tequila, don’t forget to read up on our guide here. Happy Tequila Day…now go get the fiesta started!
The Herradura Habanero Margarita Recipe
Ingredients
1.5 oz. Herradura Reposado
1 oz. Lemon juice
1 oz. Monin Habanero Lime syrup
1 Lime Wheel
1 Roasted red pepper
Preparation
Shake all liquid ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Serve drink in a glass with crushed ice. Garnish with lime wheel and roasted red pepper.
